Candy Cane Cookies: A Festive Delight for the Holidays
Get ready to revel in the sweet scent of the holiday season with these delightful Candy Cane Cookies! With their buttery goodness and a refreshing hint of peppermint, these cookies are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight shaped into iconic candy cane forms. Whether you’re baking with family or crafting homemade gifts for friends, these cookies are sure to bring joy and warmth to your festive celebrations. Join me as I share this cherished recipe that will fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Candy Cane Cookies are the perfect combination of festive flavor and creative fun! The buttery richness paired with the minty touch makes every bite a treat worth celebrating. Easy to prepare, they’re perfect for families to bake together, creating memories along the way. Plus, who can resist adding a splash of color and creativity to their holiday cookie trays? Whether you’re sharing them at gatherings or gifting them, each candy cane cookie will bring smiles and holiday cheer!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon salt
– Red food coloring
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer or whisk
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Plastic wrap
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper (optional)
– Refrigerator
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize your Candy Cane Cookies! You can swap the peppermint extract for almond extract for a different flavor profile, or add in chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Want to amp up the peppermint flavor? Toss in some crushed candy canes for extra crunch and decoration! If you’re looking for gluten-free options, try using a gluten-free flour blend.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes, and the mixture will smell heavenly!
2. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until everything is well combined. The aroma of peppermint will instantly fill your kitchen!
3. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Your dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
4. Divide the dough in half. Add a few drops of red food coloring to one half and mix until the color is evenly distributed. It should look festive and vibrant!
5. Take a tablespoon of each dough color, rolling them into 5-inch ropes. Twist the ropes together and place them on an ungreased baking sheet. Curve the top of each twist to create that classic candy cane shape.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, chill the shaped dough in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to help maintain their cute shape.
7. Bake the cookies for 9-12 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma wafting through your house will be absolutely delightful!
Serving Suggestions
These Candy Cane Cookies are perfect on their own or served alongside a warm cup of cocoa or eggnog. They also make a lovely addition to holiday cookie platters and can be packaged beautifully for gifts, making them perfect for sharing.
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure your butter is softened; this helps create that fluffy texture when creaming with sugar.
– Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s crucial for retaining the shape of the cookie during baking.
– Experiment with different shapes if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing and Reheating
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay good for about a week (if they last that long!). If you want to enjoy them warm later, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds—just enough to take the chill off while keeping them nice and soft.
FAQ Section
1. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough before baking or freeze the baked cookies. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
2. What can I do if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can use peppermint essential oil instead, but make sure it’s food-grade. Another option is to use an alternative flavor like vanilla or almond extract.
3. How can I decorate the cookies?
After they cool, consider drizzling them with white chocolate and sprinkling crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch!
Conclusion
Candy Cane Cookies are a fantastic way to bring holiday sweetness into your home. They showcase fun colors, delightful flavors, and are perfect for sharing with loved ones. I encourage you to try this simple yet rewarding recipe and bring joy to your holiday season! If you make these cookies, I’d love to see your creations! Share photos or tag me on Pinterest or Instagram, and let’s spread the holiday cheer together!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per cookie:
Calories: 120
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 1g
Sugar: 7g
Enjoy this festive treat with loved ones, creating sweet memories one Candy Cane Cookie at a time!
