Candy Cane Cookies

The aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, wrapping around you like a warm, cozy blanket. In a bustling New York City kitchen, laughter dances alongside the steam rising from the oven. The holiday season is upon us, and that means it’s time to pull out a classic recipe that brings warmth and joy to our home: Candy Cane Cookies. Each twist and curl of these cookies adds a cheerful touch to our holiday traditions, creating delightful moments to share with family and friends.

Why Make This Candy Cane Cookies

Every family has that one recipe that feels like home, and for us, Candy Cane Cookies hold a special place in our hearts. The process of making these cookies is filled with laughter and memories. There’s something magical about rolling the dough and shaping it into candy cane forms. As the cookies bake, the scent of peppermint fills the kitchen, evoking memories of holiday gatherings and the joy of being together.

During the busy holiday season, these cookies remind us to slow down and savor the little moments. We often bake during quiet afternoons, with my daughters eagerly helping to roll the dough. The excitement builds as they carefully twist the colors together. It’s a beautiful way to bond, creating not just treats but cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

Bringing Candy Cane Cookies to life is a process filled with sensory experiences. As you start, you’ll hear the gentle thwack of butter hitting the bowl and the satisfying sound of sugar pouring in. The colors of the ingredients come together beautifully, and the anticipation builds as you envision the finished cookies vibrant red and creamy white, each candy cane shape inviting you to take a bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients is the first step to creating these festive treats. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Red food coloring
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Using fresh ingredients makes a difference. The quality of your butter will shine through in the texture of the cookies. Don’t skip on the peppermint extract, either; it brings a refreshing burst of flavor that makes these cookies truly festive.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.
4. In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually blend into the creamed mixture.
5. Divide the dough in half. Mix red food coloring into one half until you achieve desired color.
6. Take a teaspoon of each color and roll into ropes about 4 inches long.
7. Twist the ropes together and shape into a candy cane.
8. Place on ungreased baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
9. Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Each step invites you to engage with the process. Creaming the butter and sugar should feel light and fluffy in your hands. As you roll the ropes, the dough is cool, smooth, and inviting. When you place them in the oven, the anticipation builds, and soon the kitchen fills with the delightful scent of peppermint cookies baking to golden perfection.

Serving Candy Cane Cookies at the Family Table

When it comes time to serve these delightful cookies, the atmosphere is buzzing with excitement. I like to arrange them on a festive plate, dusted with powdered sugar that resembles freshly fallen snow. As the cookies sit on the table, warm and inviting, my family gathers around, eager to grab one or maybe two after dinner.

The clinking of glasses and the chatter of my girls fills the room as we share stories from our day. Their laughter is contagious, and with each bite, the flavors bring smiles to our faces. These cookies spark conversation and connection, reminding us all of what the season is truly about.

Storing and Reheating Candy Cane Cookies

If you happen to have leftovers, these cookies are easy to store. Simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can last for a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze them for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This quick reheating restores their warmth and soft texture, making them feel just baked and fresh again. Some say the flavors develop even more after a night in the fridge, so they might just get even better as the days go by.

Quick Tips from My Kitchen

1. Use a tablespoon: If you find it easier, use a tablespoon to scoop out the dough instead of measuring out teaspoons for the ropes. It saves time and ensures uniformity in size.
2. Adjust the peppermint: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the peppermint extract slightly. Trust your palate.
3. Experiment with colors: Get creative! Use green or even blue food coloring to give your cookies a unique twist.
4. Don’t skip chilling: Consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies maintain their shape better.
5. Add chocolate drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an added treat.

Variations on Candy Cane Cookies

To keep things interesting, I sometimes adjust the ingredients to bring in different flavors. For a chocolate version, replace half the flour with cocoa powder for a rich twist. You could even mix in crushed peppermint candies along with the regular peppermint extract for an extra crunchy surprise.

Another family favorite has been replacing the vanilla extract with orange extract. The combination of orange and peppermint creates a delightful burst of flavor that feels festive and bright.

Candy Cane Cookies

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• Author: cookthatdish
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

Festive candy cane shaped cookies with a delightful peppermint flavor, perfect for the holiday season.

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Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Red food coloring
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.
4. In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually blend into the creamed mixture.
5. Divide the dough in half. Mix red food coloring into one half until you achieve desired color.
6. Take a teaspoon of each color and roll into ropes about 4 inches long.
7. Twist the ropes together and shape into a candy cane.
8. Place on ungreased baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
9. Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. Quick reheating brings back the fresh-baked taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

FAQs About Candy Cane Cookies

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. It keeps the flavor fresh and saves time later.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough feels too sticky, add just a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the right consistency.

How long does it take to bake the cookies?
Typically, 8-10 minutes is ideal, but keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake. You’re looking for a light golden edge.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can wrap the dough tightly and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and proceed with shaping the cookies.

What if I don’t have baking powder?
If you’re out of baking powder, you can substitute it with baking soda. Just use 1/3 the amount and add a little extra acidity, like vinegar or lemon juice, to activate it.

A Final Thought

As the holiday season approaches, let us remember that cooking is not just about the food; it’s about the love and connection that happens around the table. Candy Cane Cookies symbolize the joy of giving, the warmth of family, and the creativity we can express in the kitchen. So gather your family, roll up your sleeves, and make some unforgettable memories that will stick with you, just like the sweet, delightful aroma of these cookies fills your home. Each batch is a reminder that cooking can be a joyful experience, not just a chore, bringing a little bit of magic back to our busy lives.