Candy Cane Cookies

Why Make This Recipe

Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that brings joy and comfort to any festive gathering. Their unique shape and minty flavor make them not only fun to bake but also a delight to share with friends and family. These cookies add a festive touch to cookie platters and are perfect for holiday parties. Plus, the combination of buttery sweetness and refreshing peppermint creates a flavor that everyone will love.

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 sticks of butter (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 red food coloring
• For the Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk

Directions:

1. In a stand mixer, combine butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
2. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract; mix well.
3. Gradually add flour and salt until just combined.
4. Divide the dough into two halves; tint one half with red food coloring.
5. Chill both doughs for at least one hour in plastic wrap.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F.
7. Roll one tablespoon of each color into logs and twist together to form a candy cane shape. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Chill shaped cookies for an additional 15 minutes before baking.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden on the bottom.
10. While cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and milk to desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled cookies.

How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies are best served fresh after baking. Arrange them on a festive plate and feel free to drizzle with the peppermint glaze for an extra touch of sweetness. These cookies also pair perfectly with a warm cup of cocoa or milk, making them an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home.

How to Store Candy Cane Cookies

To keep your Candy Cane Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can also freeze the baked cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will last for up to three months.

Tips to Make Candy Cane Cookies

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Chill the dough well; this helps maintain the cookie shape while baking.
• For a more vibrant color, you can add a little more food coloring to the red dough.
• If you like, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of the glaze for added crunch and festive flair.

Variation

You can experiment with different flavors by using almond or vanilla extract instead of peppermint for a unique twist. Additionally, you can shape the dough into different holiday-themed forms if you want to try something new!

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?
A: No, using regular sugar will change the texture of the cookies. Powdered sugar is needed for the right fluffiness.

Q: How do I know when the cookies are done?
A: The cookies should be lightly golden on the bottom. If they appear too soft in the middle, give them a little extra time.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.