Name: Delicious Christmas Candy Cane Cookies for Festive Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (provides richness and flavor); 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (sweetens the dough); 0.5 cup Powdered Sugar (adds sweetness and improves texture); 1 large Egg (acts as a binder and adds moisture); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (enhances flavor); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (key leavening agent); 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (provides necessary structure); 1 teaspoon Gel Food Coloring (Red) (for vibrant color)

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As I stood in the kitchen, the sweet scent of peppermint wafted through the air, transporting me to holiday gatherings long past. These Christmas Candy Cane Cookies have become more than just a sweet treat; they’re a delightful link to tradition, perfect for sharing at family get-togethers or as thoughtful gifts during the festive season. With their vibrant red and white stripes and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies capture the joy of holiday baking like nothing else. Not only do they boast an impressive presentation that’s sure to wow your holiday guests, but they also come together in no time, making them a quick go-to recipe for any busy home chef. Ready to fill your home with the spirit of the season? Let’s dive into making these festive cookies!

Why are Christmas Candy Cane Cookies special?

Festive Visuals: The striking red and white appearance instantly elevates your holiday cookie platter, adding a splash of seasonal cheer.

Nostalgic Delight: These cookies evoke warm memories of holiday gatherings, making every bite a reminder of joyous times spent with loved ones.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward instructions, you can whip these up in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy the festivities.

Versatile Treat: While perfect as-is, feel free to get creative! Try adding chocolate chips or transforming the color scheme for other celebrations.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether for cookie exchanges or gifts, these Candy Cane Cookies are sure to impress, making them an ideal addition to your holiday treats.

For more delightful recipes, check out these Cotton Candy Cookies or the sensational Mango Cookies Delightful.

Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients

• Ready to bake these festive delights? Let’s gather our ingredients!

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flavor; use real butter for the best texture in Christmas Candy Cane Cookies.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; no direct substitutes recommended, but coconut sugar can alter the taste slightly.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and improves dough texture; no substitutions specified for this ingredient.
Eggs – Acts as a binder and adds moisture; can substitute with flax eggs for a vegan version.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; consider almond extract for a delightful twist.
Baking Powder – A key leavening agent; avoid substitutions as it’s essential for rise.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides necessary structure; a gluten-free blend can be used to cater to dietary needs.
Gel Food Coloring (Red) – Gives a vibrant color without changing dough consistency; avoid liquid food coloring to prevent extra moisture.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter with ½ cup each of granulated and powdered sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Next, add in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually incorporate 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder until just combined. Split the dough in half and tint one half with red gel food coloring, mixing until evenly colored and vibrant.

Step 2: Chill Dough
Refrigerate the divided dough for 1-3 hours, or until it becomes firm enough to handle easily. Chilling is essential for shaping the Christmas Candy Cane Cookies, preventing them from spreading too much when baked. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough feels solid to the touch but still slightly pliable.

Step 3: Shape Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll about 1 teaspoon of the red dough and 1 teaspoon of the white dough into 5-inch ropes. Twist together the colored ropes to form a candy cane shape, ensuring the colors are intertwined seamlessly. Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them for spreading during baking.

Step 4: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges while maintaining their vibrant color. Keep an eye on them, as they should hold their shape beautifully without flattening. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for a few minutes.

Step 5: Finish
As soon as your Christmas Candy Cane Cookies come out of the oven, sprinkle them generously with a mixture of granulated sugar and crushed peppermint candy. This adds a delightful sparkle and an extra holiday flair to each cookie. After sprinkling, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the peppermint topping to set while you look forward to enjoying these festive treats!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for busy holiday schedules! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, for longer storage, roll the shaped cookies and freeze them for up to 2 months. Just ensure the dough is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake the cookies straight from the fridge or freezer—no need to thaw! This makes it incredibly easy to enjoy your festive treats with minimal last-minute effort, allowing you to savor every moment of the holiday season!

Expert Tips for Christmas Candy Cane Cookies

Chill the Dough: Always chill your dough adequately to prevent sticky hands and ensure the cookies maintain their form while baking.
Use Gel Coloring: For vibrant red stripes, opt for gel food coloring instead of liquid. The liquid can alter dough moisture and texture.
Correct Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are just golden to maintain a soft center in your Christmas Candy Cane Cookies.
Refrigerate After Shaping: If the dough feels too warm after twisting, refrigerate the shaped cookies briefly again before baking to help them hold their shape.
No Substitutions for Key Ingredients: Stick to the original recipe ingredients, especially baking powder and butter, to achieve the ideal texture and flavor.

What to Serve with Christmas Candy Cane Cookies

The festive flavor of these cookies opens the door to a world of delightful pairings that elevate your holiday celebrations.

Hot Chocolate: The rich, creamy texture of hot chocolate is the perfect complement, enhancing the sweetness of the cookies and making for a cozy treat.
Eggnog: This classic holiday drink, with its creamy and spiced profile, pairs beautifully with the minty freshness of the cookies, creating a nostalgic holiday experience.
Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a luscious creaminess that balances the buttery, peppermint flavors of the cookies.
Peppermint Tea: For a lighter option, a warm cup of peppermint tea enhances the cookie’s flavor profile while providing a soothing finish to your holiday indulgence.
Sugar Cookie Bars: Keep the festive vibes flowing by serving these cookies alongside wonderfully soft and sweet sugar cookie bars, creating a fun cookie platter.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast, bringing a burst of freshness to the table that can balance the richness of the cookies.
Festive Punch: Consider offering a sparkling holiday punch that combines citrus and berry flavors, creating a refreshing drink option that’s also visually stunning.
Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the holiday spirit by pairing these candy cane delights with traditional gingerbread cookies, providing a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Milk: Nothing beats a classic glass of milk, providing the perfect dunking experience that kids and adults alike will enjoy as they savor the cookies.

Storage Tips for Christmas Candy Cane Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.

Fridge: If you live in a warmer climate, you can refrigerate the cookies for freshness, but consume them within 1 week for the best quality.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw and warm your Christmas Candy Cane Cookies in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe to tailor it to your flavor preferences and dietary needs!

Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan-friendly version.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities while keeping the taste intact.
Mint Chocolate Chip: Add mini chocolate chips and a hint of mint extract for a chocolatey twist that balances the peppermint flavor delightfully.
Colorful Creations: Switch up your gel food coloring! Try blue and white for winter wonderland cookies or yellow and orange for a fun spring touch.
Double-Sugar Crunch: Roll the cookies in a blend of granulated sugar and crushed nuts for added texture and a delightful crunch in every bite.
Spiced Variation: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for an added warmth that complements the peppermint beautifully.
Candied Citrus: Toss in some finely chopped candied orange peel for a zesty surprise that brightens each holiday bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling the cookies, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for a luscious, indulgent finish.

And if you’re looking for more delicious cookie recipes, don’t miss out on making delightful Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies or trying out some scrumptious Velvet Crinkle Cookies. Let your imagination run wild!

Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint flavor for my cookies?
Absolutely! I recommend using peppermint extract for an authentic candy cane taste. If you’re looking for something milder, you might opt for vanilla extract or even almond extract to enhance the flavor without the strong peppermint kick.

What’s the best way to store Christmas Candy Cane Cookies?
To maintain their deliciousness, keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you need to store them longer, freezing is a great option. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them into a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the dough for Christmas Candy Cane Cookies?
Very! You can absolutely freeze your unbaked dough. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight, then shape and bake as usual!

How can I make my cookies softer or prevent them from spreading?
To keep your Christmas Candy Cane Cookies soft, make sure to chill the dough thoroughly before shaping. This helps maintain their form during baking. If your cookies do spread too much, check the flour measurement—too little could cause excessive spreading. Furthermore, ensure your butter is softened, not melted, when creaming with sugars.

Are these cookies safe for my pets to eat?
No, it’s best not to share these cookies with your furry friends. The sugar, especially in large amounts, can upset their stomachs, and peppermint may not agree with all pets. Always stick to dog-specific treats for your pets’ snacking needs.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find that your dough is too sticky to handle, you can sprinkle a little extra flour to help with the texture. Just be careful not to add too much—it should still be soft and pliable. Chill the dough for a bit longer if necessary, as this will make it easier to work with when shaping your Christmas Candy Cane Cookies.