Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly capture the spirit of the holiday season. These cookies are not just delicious but also a joy to make, especially with the kids. With their festive red and white stripes, they bring a sense of cheer to any gathering. The combination of buttery sweetness and hints of peppermint makes them an instant favorite. Plus, they are easy to decorate and even easier to enjoy!
Why Make This Candy Cane Cookies
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Candy Cane Cookies! First and foremost, they embody the holiday spirit with their playful design and delightful peppermint flavor. These cookies are a fantastic way to get into the festive mood, whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply sharing treats with friends and family. Moreover, they’re a wonderful activity for children who love to help in the kitchen. What’s more, these cookies also make for lovely gifts! Bundle a few in a festive tin and you have a sweet homemade present that anyone would appreciate.
How to Make Candy Cane Cookies
Making Candy Cane Cookies is a delightful process that combines simple ingredients and fun techniques. The dough is straightforward to prepare, and you can involve the whole family in shaping the cookies. The final touch of baking results in cookies that are lightly crisp with a tender center, topped off with cheerful colors that brighten your dessert table.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until well combined.
- Divide the dough in half; leave one half plain and add red food coloring to the other half and mix until evenly colored.
- Take a small piece of each colored dough, roll them into long ropes, and twist them together.
- Shape the twisted dough into a candy cane shape and place on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let cool on wire racks before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per cookie (makes about 24 cookies):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 1g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.)
How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies
Serve Candy Cane Cookies as a festive dessert during your holiday gatherings, or enjoy them with a warm cup of cocoa for a cozy treat. They also make a stunning addition to cookie trays alongside other holiday classics like gingerbread and snowball cookies. Don’t forget to share these cookies with neighbors or friends to spread the holiday cheer!
How to Store Candy Cane Cookies
Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for 5-7 days. For an extended shelf life, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy some, simply thaw them at room temperature.
Expert Tips for Perfect Candy Cane Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
- Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour; this keeps the cookies tender.
- If you want a stronger peppermint flavor, feel free to add an extra drop of peppermint extract.
- Ensure the red food coloring is thoroughly mixed for even coloring throughout the cookies.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to half the dough to create a chocolate version of these cookies.
- Drizzled Cookies: Melt some white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an added touch of sweetness.
- Sprinkles: For a festive flair, roll the shaped candy canes in crushed candy canes or festive sprinkles before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for unsalted butter. However, butter will give a richer flavor and better texture.How long do I need to bake the cookies?
Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as they should be lightly golden but not too dark.Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, shape it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month.What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is sticky, you can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a workable consistency.What’s the best way to color the dough?
When mixing in the food coloring, start with a small amount, and gradually add more until you reach your desired shade.How do I ensure my cookies turn out soft?
Make sure not to overbake them. They may seem soft when you take them out, but they will continue to firm up while cooling.Can I use other extracts?
Definitely! You can experiment with almond extract or different flavors to create a unique cookie.How can I decorate these cookies?
You can glaze them with icing, sprinkle them with crushed candies, or dip them in chocolate for added flair.Do I have to use red food coloring?
No, using coloring is optional. You can leave the dough plain and still enjoy the peppermint flavor.What’s the best way to gift these cookies?
Stack the cooled cookies in a decorative tin or wrap them in cellophane tied with a festive ribbon for a lovely presentation.
Conclusion
Candy Cane Cookies are a wonderful way to bring a touch of magic to your holiday baking. They are not only fun to make but also a delicious treat that embodies the festive spirit. With their creamy and minty flavors and eye-catching appearance, these cookies will surely be a hit at any gathering. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating these delightful cookies. Happy baking!