Candy Cane Cookie Recipe: A Festive Holiday Treat

The holiday season is not complete without festive treats, and Candy Cane Cookie Recipe are a classic favorite. These cookies are not only delicious but also add a cheerful touch to your Christmas dessert table. With their signature peppermint flavor and red-and-white striped design, they’re perfect for gifting or enjoying with family and friends.

Candy Cane Cookie Recipe Ingredients

To make about 24 Candy Cane Cookies, you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  
• 1 cup granulated sugar
  
• 1 large egg
  
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
  
• ¼ teaspoon salt
  
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
  
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
  
• Optional: crushed candy canes for topping
  

Step-by-Step Candy Cane Cookie Recipe

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix well.

3. Prepare the Dough

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Divide the dough in half.

4. Add Color and Flavor

• To one half, mix in red food coloring and peppermint extract.
  
• Keep the other half plain.
  

5. Shape the Cookies

Roll out small amounts of red and white dough into thin ropes. Twist them together and form the classic candy cane shape.

6. Bake

Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are slightly golden. Let cool completely on a wire rack.

7. Optional Topping

Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while cookies are still warm for an extra festive touch.

Tips for Perfect Candy Cane Cookies

• Use room-temperature butter for soft, easy-to-mix dough.
  
• Chill the dough slightly if it’s too soft to handle.
  
• Don’t overbake; cookies should remain soft in the center.
  
• Get creative with shapes—mini candy canes or simple twists work too.
  

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Candy Cane Cookies are:

• Festive & colorful for holiday tables
  
• Easy to make, even with kids
  
• Perfect for gifting in holiday tins or jars
  
• Deliciously pepperminty and buttery

Conclusion

Making Candy Cane Cookies is a fun and festive way to celebrate the holidays. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a beautiful, peppermint-flavored treat that everyone will love. Bake a batch today, and add some sweetness to your Christmas celebrations.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make Candy Cane Cookies without food coloring?
Yes! You can skip the red coloring or use natural alternatives like beet juice powder.

Q2: How long do these cookies last?
Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to one week.

Q3: Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Shape and freeze the dough ropes, then bake when needed.

Q4: Can I use these cookies for decorating gingerbread houses?
Yes, they make excellent decorative candy accents.

Q5: Can I substitute peppermint extract?
You can use mint extract or vanilla if you prefer a milder flavor.