Candy Cane Cookies: 10 Festive Minty Delights for Christmas

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Candy Cane Cookies are a festive holiday treat featuring a soft and buttery cookie dough flavored with peppermint extract. These cookies are uniquely twisted in red and white ropes to resemble classic candy canes, making them perfect for Christmas celebrations. With their slight crisp on the edges and tender centers, these cookies are not just visually appealing but also deliciously minty. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or just for yourself, these cookies will bring joy and sweetness to your festive season.

Why You’ll Love This Candy Cane Cookies

These cookies are a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire. First, they are visually stunning, resembling traditional candy canes, which instantly adds to the festive spirit. Secondly, the combination of buttery dough and refreshing peppermint makes for a mouthwatering experience. Moreover, they are versatile; you can decorate them with sprinkles or leave them plain. With an easy recipe, even novice bakers can enjoy the process of creating these treats. Additionally, they stay fresh for several days, making them perfect for gifting. Lastly, Candy Cane Cookies are a great way to engage kids in holiday baking, creating sweet memories together!

Ingredients for Candy Cane Cookies

Gather these items:

2 3/4 cups (358g) all-purpose flour
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup (224g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup (207g) granulated sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp peppermint extract
Red gel icing color
Sprinkles or peppermint crunch, optional

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 2: Using a large mixer bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture turns light in color and becomes fluffy.
Step 3: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until the dough forms and is well incorporated. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies.
Step 5: Divide the dough into two equal parts. Add red gel icing color to one half and mix until evenly colored. The other half remains white.
Step 6: Place both dough portions in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours to firm up, which makes shaping easier.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Roll each teaspoon-sized dough ball into a 5-inch long rope. Place one red rope and one white rope side by side and gently twist them together.
Step 9: Shape the twisted rope into a candy cane by curving one end into a hook shape.
Step 10: If desired, press sprinkles or peppermint crunch onto the front surfaces of the shaped cookies for added festive flair.
Step 11: Bake the cookies on the prepared baking sheets in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes, until the edges start to set but centers remain slightly soft.
Step 12: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes to firm up and prevent breakage. Then transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for the Best Candy Cane Cookies

Keep these in mind:

These cookies are best enjoyed within 4 to 5 days for optimal freshness.
They can be frozen for up to a month, making them perfect for holiday baking prep.
Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a smooth dough.
Don’t skip refrigerating the dough; it helps in shaping the cookies beautifully.

Best Ways to Serve Candy Cane Cookies

These cookies can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect for holiday parties or as a sweet treat at family gatherings. Consider pairing them with a warm cup of hot cocoa or coffee to enhance the festive experience. You can also package them beautifully as gifts for friends and family, adding to the holiday cheer. Additionally, they make a charming addition to cookie platters alongside other Christmas cookie recipes with peppermint.

How to Store and Reheat Candy Cane Cookies

To keep your Candy Cane Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within 4 to 5 days. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can freeze them for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, or reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm, fresh-baked taste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Candy Cane Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Candy Cane Cookies?

The key to perfect Candy Cane Cookies lies in the dough’s consistency. Make sure to chill the dough adequately and avoid overmixing to ensure a tender texture. Using high-quality peppermint extract also enhances the flavor, making your cookies truly delicious.

Can I make Candy Cane Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. In addition, baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container or frozen for later enjoyment, making them a great option for holiday baking.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Candy Cane Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you accurately measure your ingredients, especially flour. Don’t skip the chilling step, as it helps maintain the cookie shape during baking. Lastly, watch the baking time closely to prevent overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture.

Variations of Candy Cane Cookies You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations to take your Candy Cane Cookies to the next level! For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to one half of the dough for a delightful cocoa peppermint combination. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an elegant touch. Another fun idea is to incorporate crushed candy canes into the dough for added texture and flavor. Lastly, try using different food colorings to create vibrant, festive designs that appeal to kids and adults alike, making your cookies stand out during holiday gatherings.