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Candy Cane Cookies

Delightful peppermint-infused cookies with festive red and white swirls, perfect for celebrating the holiday season.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 41 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cookie Base Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure it's at room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg Room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons peppermint extract Adjust to taste for more minty flavor
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Sifted
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • Red food coloring Used to color half of the dough
Garnish
  • 1 cup crushed candy canes For sprinkling on top

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until fully combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  5. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Leave one part plain and add red food coloring to the other part until desired color is achieved.
  6. Take small pieces of each color (about one tablespoon each) and roll them into ropes. Twist a white and red rope together to form the shape of a candy cane.
  7. Place the formed cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart, and bake for 9-11 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
  8. Let the cookies cool slightly, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes for a festive flair.
  9. Enjoy your Candy Cane Cookies with a hot cup of cocoa or as a delightful dessert!

Notes

For an intense peppermint flavor, add an extra drop of peppermint extract. Avoid overbaking for a chewy texture. Consider dipping half in white chocolate for presentation.