Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Candy Cane Cookies Recipe are the perfect festive treat for your holiday gatherings. These old-fashioned peppermint cookies not only look delightful but also offer a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with a warm cup of cocoa. Whether you’re baking for a Christmas party or simply to enjoy at home, these cookies are sure to impress. With their vibrant colors and sweet glaze, they stand out on any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Appeal: The red and white design of Candy Cane Cookies adds a cheerful touch to any holiday celebration.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery dough with peppermint creates a nostalgic taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as gifts, party favors, or simply as a sweet snack during the holidays.
• Perfectly Glazed: The peppermint glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that elevates the cookie experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Plastic wrap
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or Silpat

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool ensures your butter and sugar blend effortlessly, creating a fluffy texture for the cookies.
• Baking sheets: A good quality baking sheet helps achieve even cooking, preventing burnt bottoms on your cookies.
• Plastic wrap: Keeping the dough covered while chilling prevents it from drying out.

Ingredients

Old-fashioned peppermint Candy Cane Cookies.

For the Cookie Dough:

• 2 sticks of butter (at room temperature)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon of red food coloring

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
2. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. Reduce mixer speed and gradually add in flour and salt, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Color Your Dough

1. Divide the dough in half.
2. In one half, incorporate the red food coloring, mixing until fully blended.

Step 4: Chill Your Dough

1. Shape each portion of dough into discs and cover tightly with plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for best results.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Measure out one tablespoon of each color dough and roll them into log shapes about 6 inches long.
3. Twist the two logs together and place them on parchment paper or silpat lined baking sheets.

Step 6: Bake

1. Chill the shaped cookie dough for an additional 15 minutes before placing them in the oven.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms are a very light golden brown.

Step 7: Glaze Your Cookies

While your cookies are cooling slightly after baking, prepare your peppermint glaze by mixing powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and milk together until smooth. Spoon this glaze over each cookie before serving for an extra festive touch!

How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful treat that can brighten up any holiday gathering. Serving these cookies in creative ways can enhance the festive spirit and make your dessert table more inviting.

With Hot Cocoa

• Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa creates a cozy combination perfect for winter nights.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Candy Cane Cookies on a colorful platter with other holiday treats like brownies and fudge for a festive display.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbon for charming party favors that guests can take home.

With Ice Cream

• Serve a few cookies alongside scoops of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

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How to Perfect Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

To ensure your Candy Cane Cookies turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature butter: This helps achieve a creamy texture when mixed with sugar, leading to light and fluffy cookies.
• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and keeps the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Use fresh extracts: Opt for pure vanilla and peppermint extracts for the best flavor in your cookies.
• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon and level method to accurately measure flour, preventing dense cookies.
• Don’t overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when they’re slightly underdone; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
• Decorate creatively: Add crushed candy canes or sprinkles on top of the glaze for extra festive flair.

Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

When serving Candy Cane Cookies, certain side dishes complement them beautifully. Here are some ideas to consider.

1. Peppermint Bark: This chocolatey treat pairs perfectly with the minty flavor of Candy Cane Cookies.
2. Gingerbread Men: A classic holiday cookie that offers a spicy contrast to the sweet peppermint.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the sweetness of the cookies, adding freshness to your dessert table.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide creamy richness that enhances the overall dessert experience.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Serve melted chocolate alongside fruits and marshmallows for dipping; it’s a fun addition that kids will love!
6. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage like coffee or tea serves as an excellent palate cleanser between bites of sweet cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Candy Cane Cookies can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your cookie-making success.

• Not chilling the dough – Failing to chill the cookie dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate for at least an hour.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Skipping the parchment paper – Baking directly on the pan may cause cookies to stick. Always use parchment paper or a silpat for easy removal.
• Ignoring oven temperature – An incorrect oven temperature can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Not adding enough flavoring – If you skimp on peppermint extract, your cookies might lack flavor. Measure carefully for that perfect minty taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Keep layers of cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

• Freeze unbaked dough for up to three months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.

Reheating Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place in a covered skillet on low heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe.

How do I make my Candy Cane Cookies more festive?

You can add colorful sprinkles or crushed candy canes on top before baking for extra cheer!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it includes xanthan gum for structure.

What is the best way to store Candy Cane Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer them chilled.

How long does it take to prepare this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe?

The total time is approximately 90 minutes, including chilling and baking time.

Can I freeze baked Candy Cane Cookies?

Absolutely! Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

These Candy Cane Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different extracts or toppings. Perfect for sharing during the holidays, this recipe will surely bring warmth and joy to your celebrations. Try it out and enjoy the festive spirit!