Name: Bake These Candy Cane Cookies Once and You’ll Love Them Forever
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 1 large Large Egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure for best flavor); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (adjust for stronger flavor); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 tablespoon Red Food Coloring (gel for best results)

Bake These Candy Cane Cookies Once… and You’ll Make Them Every Year ❤️🍪

As the holiday season approaches, there’s something truly enchanting about the activities that fill our homes with warmth and joy. The moment I pull out the mixing bowl and set to work, the aroma of vanilla and peppermint swirls around me, evoking memories of laughter and shared moments. This recipe for Candy Cane Cookies has a special place in my heart. It’s not just about baking; it’s about creating festive treats that bring family and friends together, paired with hot cocoa or nestled in gift jars.

With their delightful red and white swirls and buttery softness, these cookies are a joy to both make and share. Trust me, once you bake these Candy Cane Cookies, they’ll become a beloved tradition that you’ll look forward to every year. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s embark on this delicious holiday adventure together! 🍪❤️

Bake These Candy Cane Cookies Why?

Irresistible holiday charm: With their vibrant red and white swirls, these cookies are as festive as they are delicious!

Simple process: Even beginners can master these cookies with ease, making them a perfect choice for holiday baking!

Buttery texture: Each bite melts in your mouth, providing a delightful contrast to the refreshing peppermint flavor that brings cheer to any occasion.

Versatile gifting: Package them in cute mason jars, and watch as they become your go-to gift for family and friends.

Timeless tradition: Once you make these Candy Cane Cookies, you’ll find them cherished in your home year after year. Let’s create sweet memories together!

Candy Cane Cookie Ingredients

• To bake these Candy Cane Cookies, gather everything you need for delightful holiday treats!

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to a tender texture; avoid substitutes for best results.
Large Egg – Binds the dough; room temperature helps with better incorporation.
Vanilla Extract – Adds classic flavor; use pure extract for the tastiest outcome.
Peppermint Extract – Delivers the signature peppermint flavor; adjust for a stronger mint taste.

For the Dry Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure; gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
Salt – Balances sweetness; always include in sweet recipes.

For the Color

Red Food Coloring – Use gel for vibrant swirls without altering dough consistency.

With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to crafting unforgettable Candy Cane Cookies that embody holiday spirit!

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies

Prep oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This sets the stage for perfect baking!
Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This will create a light base for your cookies!
Combine wet ingredients: Add the large egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture, blending until smooth. The peppermint will add that festive touch we all love!
Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and salt. The dough should feel soft but not sticky, creating the perfect texture for cookie shaping.
Color dough: Divide the dough in half and color one half with red food coloring. Be creative; this is what will give your cookies those beautiful swirls!
Shape cookies: Roll 1 teaspoon of each colored dough into 4-inch ropes, twist them together gently, and form into candy cane shapes. They’ll look so festive when they’re baked!
Bake: Place your prepared dough on the baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the bottoms are lightly golden, then cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheets.

Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra festive touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Candy Cane Cookies

Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk or a splash of egg yolk for better binding, ensuring perfect Candy Cane Cookies.
Coloring Technique: Use gel food coloring to prevent color bleeding. This helps maintain those stunning red and white swirls without compromising dough texture.
Chill for Success: If you’re not ready to bake right away, refrigerate the dough for up to three days. This helps flavors deepen and makes rolling easier.
Baking Time Caution: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. The bottoms should be lightly golden; overbaking can lead to dryness, ruining your delightful holiday treats.
Freezing Cookies: Baked cookies freeze beautifully for up to two months. Store them in an airtight container with parchment layers to keep them fresh longer.

Candy Cane Cookie Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste!

Chocolate Delight: Mix in cocoa powder for a rich chocolate version of your Candy Cane Cookies. The combination of mint and chocolate is simply heavenly!
Crushed Peppermint Topping: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top before baking for a delightful crunch and burst of festive flavor. It’s like having your favorite candy cane in cookie form!
Nutty Addition: Add finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delicious crunch and earthy flavor. This twist adds a lovely texture that complements the buttery dough.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap the unsalted butter for coconut oil or vegan butter to create a dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy. The flavor remains rich and delicious!
Gluten-Free Cookies: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies friendly for gluten-intolerant bakers. They’ll taste just as good, making everyone feel included!
Spiced Variation: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy aroma that adds extra holiday cheer to your cookies. The spices will enhance the peppermint flavor beautifully!
Food Color Fun: Experiment with different colors or swirling techniques. Use green food coloring for a festive twist or create marbled effects for a unique look. Your creativity is the only limit!
Layered Surprise: For a unique twist, create layered dough by pressing different colored doughs into a square pan, chilling, and then cutting into fun shapes. This adds a playful visual twist to the traditional cookie!

What to Serve with Candy Cane Cookies?

As the aroma of peppermint fills the air and holiday cheer permeates your festivities, it’s time to think about what to pair with these delightful treats.

Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a warm mug of rich hot cocoa; its creamy texture and sweet chocolate flavors balance perfectly with the refreshing peppermint cookies.
Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup of coffee or espresso adds a comforting contrast, enhancing the sweetness of these treats while providing a warm pick-me-up.
Milk: A classic pairing, a cold glass of milk complements the buttery texture of the cookies, making every bite even more satisfying.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast between the warm cookies and cool dessert. The combination is heavenly!
Peppermint Bark: For a festive touch, offer a side of peppermint bark. Its chocolatey richness and minty crunch create a symphony of holiday flavors.
Sugar Cookies: Consider serving these alongside frosted sugar cookies for a colorful, sweet spread that invites guests to indulge their sweet tooth.
Christmas Punch: A refreshing holiday punch, whether fruity or spiced, brings festive cheer and keeps the conversation flowing.

With these suggestions, your Candy Cane Cookies become part of a delightful holiday experience that friends and family will cherish!

Make Ahead Options

These Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by refrigerating it in an airtight container. This not only keeps the dough fresh but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, shape the cookies and place them on baking sheets, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat your oven and bake them directly from the fridge for delightful, freshly baked cookies just as delicious as if you made them the same day!

Storage Tips for Candy Cane Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, keeping them fresh and soft for holiday gatherings.

Freezer: Baked Candy Cane Cookies freeze well for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5 minutes, letting the peppermint aroma fill your kitchen once more.

Dough Storage: The cookie dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking, allowing you to prepare in advance and bake fresh cookies whenever you wish!

Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ingredients for Candy Cane Cookies?
I recommend using unsalted butter that’s softened to room temperature for easy creaming. Look for high-quality powdered sugar, as this is key to achieving a tender cookie texture. Make sure your eggs are large and at room temperature, as this helps them blend smoothly into the dough.

How should I store my Candy Cane Cookies after baking?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This way, they’ll stay fresh and soft—perfect for holiday gatherings! Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just layer the cookies with parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent them from sticking together.

Can I freeze the dough for Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 3 days before baking. If you want to freeze it for longer storage, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight before shaping the cookies!

What if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
Don’t worry if you encounter this issue. Simply add 1-2 teaspoons of milk or a splash of egg yolk to the dough and mix until it’s more cohesive. If the dough has been overmixed, letting it rest for about 10 minutes before shaping can help it relax and become easier to work with.

Are these Candy Cane Cookies suitable for people with allergies?
These cookies contain common allergens like gluten and eggs, so they may not be suitable for those with wheat or egg allergies. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re concerned about peppermint, make sure to use a pure peppermint extract to avoid any artificial additives that might trigger allergic reactions.

Can I modify the recipe for different flavors?
Certainly! For a fun twist, you can stir cocoa powder into half of the dough for a chocolate version. Additionally, crushed peppermint candies can be sprinkled on top before baking for added texture. Feel free to get creative with food colorings to create a festive variety of swirls!