SPREAD LOVE

Why Make This Recipe

Candy Cane Cookies are a festive treat perfect for the holiday season. Their bright colors and delightful mint flavor bring joy to any gathering. These cookies combine the fun of baking with the charm of a holiday classic, making them a great activity for families and friends. Plus, they taste amazing!

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 large egg (room temp)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp peppermint extract
2½ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
Red food coloring (gel preferred)

Directions:

Prep oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream butter + sugar: In a bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
Add egg & extracts: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until the mixture is smooth.
Mix dry in: Slowly blend the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mix. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Divide + dye: Split the dough in half. Color one half with red food coloring.
Shape: Roll 1 teaspoon of each color into 4-inch ropes. Twist them together and bend into a candy cane shape.
Bake: Place the shaped cookies on the baking sheets and bake for 8–10 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Let them cool on the pan for about 5 minutes.

How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies

These cookies are perfect for serving at holiday parties or giving as gifts. Pair them with a warm cup of hot cocoa or your favorite holiday beverage for a delightful treat.

How to Store Candy Cane Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months.

Tips to Make Candy Cane Cookies

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
Use gel food coloring for vibrant red stripes that pop.
Don’t overbake your cookies; they should stay soft and chewy.

Variation

For a different flavor, you can substitute the peppermint extract with almond extract. This will give you a unique taste while keeping the festive spirit.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the taste and texture may be slightly different.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

3. Can I decorate the cookies?
Absolutely! You can top them with crushed candy canes or drizzle with chocolate for an extra festive touch.