The holidays bring with them a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and that special magic which seems to sprinkle through the air. Picture a cozy kitchen filled with the intoxicating scents of baking, laughter, and the joyful spirit of the season. Candy cane cookies are not just a treat; they are a delightful reminder of childhood memories, the embrace of loved ones, and the sweet promise of celebration.
Why make this recipe
These Candy Cane Cookies are more than just visually charming; they are a delicious combination of buttery goodness with the festive burst of peppermint that will make your heart skip a beat. With their vibrant red-and-white swirls and a touch of crunch from the colored sugar or crushed candy canes, these cookies are sure to steal the show at any gathering. Whether you’re sharing them with family around the fireplace or gifting them to friends, these cookies embody the spirit of giving and joy.
How to make Candy Cane Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red and green colored sugar or crushed candy canes for decoration
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The warmth of the oven will welcome the cozy aromas about to fill your kitchen.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will create the base for your delightful cookies.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Let that sweetness come alive as you mix.
- Beat in the egg and extracts until well combined, allowing the beautiful flavors to meld together as your kitchen fills with their enticing scents.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until everything is beautifully combined into a soft dough.
- Divide the dough in half, and tint one half red using food coloring. Embrace the festive spirit as the dough transforms.
- Roll out a small piece of each color into ropes and twist them together to form a candy cane shape. Let your creativity shine in each twist and turn!
- Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ready to be transformed into something magical.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until set but not browned. The anticipation of the baking cookies is nearly as sweet as the cookies themselves!
- Immediately sprinkle with colored sugar or crushed candy canes right after removing them from the oven, ensuring every bite has that festive crunch.
- Let cool before serving, creating a moment of joyful waiting while the scents linger in the air.
How to serve Candy Cane Cookies
These cookies are delightful on their own, but for an extra touch of holiday magic, serve them alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate or classic eggnog. They also make lovely gifts, packaged in decorative boxes or tied with festive ribbons, perfect for sharing the love of the season.
How to store Candy Cane Cookies
To keep your Candy Cane Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to preserve them longer, you can freeze them for 2-3 months. Just remember to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Tips to make Candy Cane Cookies
- If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, add a few more drops of peppermint extract, but be careful not to overpower the delicate balance.
- Consider replacing the almond extract with more vanilla for a different yet equally delicious flavor profile.
- Make sure your butter is soft but not melted; this will help create that perfect creamy texture when creaming it with sugar.
Variations
Feel free to get creative! Instead of traditional candy cane colors, you can use vibrant hues to fit any theme or occasion. Adding chocolate chips or incorporating festive spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also give these cookies a delightful twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! The dough can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to three days. Just allow it to soften slightly before rolling out and twisting.
2. Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the blend works in baking for the best results.
3. What can I do if I don’t have peppermint extract?
If you’re out of peppermint extract, you can use a drop of peppermint oil! Just remember that essential oils are more potent, so start with a very small amount.
As the holiday season unfolds, let the joy of baking and sharing these Candy Cane Cookies fill your heart and home. Celebrate the little moments, create sweet memories, and savor every delightful bite. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!
Candy Cane Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and extracts until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half, tint one half red using food coloring.
- Roll out a small piece of each color into ropes and twist them together to form a candy cane shape.
- Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until set but not browned.
- Immediately sprinkle with colored sugar or crushed candy canes after removing them from the oven.
- Let cool before serving.