Candy cane cookies are the delightful little nuggets of joy that make your holiday season sparkle brighter than a disco ball at a family reunion. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie that has all the holiday spirit packed into it. citrus-inspired cookies The faint crunch of crushed candy canes adds a festive twist, while the sweet peppermint aroma wafts through your kitchen like a jolly elf spreading cheer.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for candy cane cookies
- How to Make candy cane cookies
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What are candy cane cookies?
- How do I store candy cane cookies?
- Can I make candy cane cookies ahead of time?
- What variations can I try with candy cane cookies?
- Conclusion for candy cane cookies :
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every year, when the snow begins to fall and the holiday music starts playing, I find myself in my cozy kitchen, rolling out cookie dough and laughing with friends over spilled flour. Candy cane cookies have become a staple in our holiday traditions—a perfect treat for cookie exchanges or simply indulging while binge-watching holiday movies in our pajamas. For more inspiration, check out this Easter shortbread cookies recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These candy cane cookies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for novice bakers or those short on time.
- The combination of buttery sweetness and refreshing mint flavor will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Their festive red-and-white appearance makes them an eye-catching addition to any holiday platter.
- These cookies are versatile enough to be enjoyed throughout the winter, not just during the holidays.
Ingredients for candy cane cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for a creamy dough that’s easy to mix and ensures the best texture.
- Granulated Sugar: This sweetener gives your cookies that classic sweetness we all crave during the holidays.
- Egg: Just one large egg helps bind everything together and adds richness to your cookies.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the flavors and adds a warm essence to each bite.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the foundation of your cookie dough; sift it for best results.
- Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent that makes these cookies rise beautifully.
- Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkle these magical bits of peppermint into your dough for that festive flair!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make candy cane cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer if you want to save some elbow grease.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Embrace those sweet scents wafting through your kitchen; it’s like magic!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients until fully incorporated. Don’t be alarmed if it gets a little messy—flour clouds are part of the fun!
Step 5: Fold in Crushed Candy Canes
Gently fold in those crushed candy canes. It’s like adding confetti to your dough—so festive!
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until they’re lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
Finally, allow them to cool on a wire rack before indulging. Trust me; they’ll disappear faster than you can say “Santa Claus!”
Happy baking! Enjoy these candy cane cookies as you kick back with loved ones or while wrapping gifts—you deserve every sugary crumb. For more inspiration, check out this chocolate cake mix waffles recipe.
You Must Know
- Candy cane cookies bring the festive spirit to your kitchen.
- Their delightful swirl of red and white not only looks stunning but also tastes heavenly.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to eat—especially when no one is looking!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, then blend in your egg and vanilla. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients for a dough that sticks together nicely. Lastly, incorporate crushed candy canes before rolling and baking to perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with flavors! Swap vanilla extract for peppermint extract for an extra minty punch or add chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. You could even dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for a full-on dessert experience!
Storing & Reheating
Store your candy cane cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm later, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use cold butter for a firmer cookie texture; this helps maintain shape while baking.
- Don’t overmix the dough after adding the flour—this keeps your cookies tender and soft.
- Lastly, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavor and prevent spreading.
Sharing my first batch of candy cane cookies was like throwing glitter on my reputation as a baker! My friends devoured them faster than I could say “ho ho ho,” leaving me with just crumbs and a big smile!
FAQs :
What are candy cane cookies?
Candy cane cookies are festive treats that combine the flavors of peppermint and vanilla. These cookies are typically made with a soft dough, flavored with peppermint extract, and often decorated with crushed candy canes. sweet holiday treats The result is a delightful cookie that captures the essence of the holiday season, making them perfect for Christmas gatherings or as a sweet gift. another delightful dessert.
How do I store candy cane cookies?
To keep your candy cane cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months when frozen.
Can I make candy cane cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make candy cane cookies ahead of time! Prepare the cookie dough and shape it into logs, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the dough into rounds and bake as directed. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh cookies whenever you want!
What variations can I try with candy cane cookies?
While traditional candy cane cookies are delicious on their own, there are many variations to explore. You can add chocolate chips for extra richness or use almond extract instead of peppermint for a unique twist. Additionally, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or adding different types of crushed candies for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion for candy cane cookies :
In summary, candy cane cookies offer a delightful blend of peppermint and vanilla flavors that embody the spirit of the holiday season. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing during festive gatherings. Whether you choose to decorate them with crushed candies or enjoy them plain, these cookies will surely bring joy to your celebrations. easy cookie variations With options for storing and making them ahead of time, you’ll find that preparing these delightful treats is both convenient and rewarding. Enjoy baking your batch of candy cane cookies this holiday season!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Candy Cane Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Candy cane cookies are a festive delight that will brighten up your holiday gatherings. These soft, buttery treats are infused with peppermint and topped with crunchy candy cane pieces, making them perfect for cookie exchanges or cozy nights in. Easy to prepare, they quickly become a cherished holiday tradition that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the crushed candy canes.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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