The holiday season is filled with traditions, and baking is a big part of those memories. Imagine a kitchen full of warmth and laughter as family and friends gather. Candy cane cookies are a highlight, filling your home with festive scents and adding fun to your celebrations.
These cookies are perfect for cookie exchanges or treats for loved ones. They’re a key part of your holiday baking.
When you start baking, you’ll see the ingredients are simple yet impactful. Peppermint flavors and crushed candy canes make these cookies special. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the joy and warmth they bring. So, put on your apron, preheat your oven to 350ºF, and let’s make candy cane cookies.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Candy cane cookies are a beloved addition to any holiday baking recipes.
- The dough doesn’t require chilling, simplifying the baking process.
- Festive peppermint flavor makes these cookies a seasonal favorite.
- They are perfect for cookie exchanges and holiday gatherings.
- Easily incorporate variations with different flavors or decorations.
Introduction to Candy Cane Cookies
Candy cane cookies are a favorite at holiday parties. They mix the sweetness of sugar cookies with peppermint, adding cheer. These treats, shaped like candy canes, are a holiday classic.
Whether you’re a pro or new to baking, making candy cane cookies is fun. They’re easy to make and impress everyone. For a detailed recipe, visit this link.
In about 30 minutes, you can make 30 cookies. They’re perfect for parties or gifts. The peppermint and dough mix is amazing, making these cookies a holiday tradition.
Why Candy Cane Cookies are a Holiday Favorite
Candy Cane Cookies are a holiday baking staple. They capture the festive spirit with their red and white swirls and fun shapes. They delight both kids and adults.
Festive Appeal
These cookies are top picks for festive treats. Their bright colors and shapes bring holiday cheer to any table. They’re perfect for holiday parties or gift exchanges, adding joy and whimsy.
Soft and Chewy Texture
The soft and chewy texture of Candy Cane Cookies is unforgettable. It’s a big reason why people love them every year. Peppermint extract adds a refreshing twist, making them a hit at winter events.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make tasty homemade candy cane treats, you need the right ingredients. This simple recipe lets you make these festive cookies quickly. Each part is crucial for the perfect peppermint taste and texture. You might want to make these cookies for every holiday.
Basic Ingredients for Candy Cane Cookies
Here’s what you need for your candy cane cookies:
- 2 sticks of salted butter
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons of peppermint extract
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- ½ – 1 teaspoon of red food coloring
Each item adds to the flavor, making tasty peppermint desserts. For a fun touch, add crushed candy canes.
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
For even more flavor, try these extras:
- Cream cheese for extra softness
- Finely crushed peppermint candies, about 2 tablespoons
- Extra flavor extracts like almond or chocolate
These add-ons boost the taste and let you get creative with your treats. With about 45 minutes of prep and chilling, you’ll get soft, chewy cookies. Enjoy them warm or save them for later. They stay fresh for a week at room temperature or two weeks in the fridge. Check out this site for more easy cookies perfect for the holidays.
Step-by-Step Process to Make Candy Cane Cookies
Making candy cane cookies is fun, especially with a simple recipe. This guide will help you make the dough, shape the cookies, and bake them perfectly.
Preparing the Dough
Start by mixing shortening and butter with confectioners’ sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Add an egg, almond, and vanilla extracts for extra flavor. Then, mix in flour and crushed peppermint candy until a soft dough forms.
Divide the dough in half for the candy cane look. Color one half red and mix well. Chill both halves to make shaping easier.
Shaping the Cookies
Take small pieces of red and white dough, about 1/2 teaspoon each. Roll them into logs and twist them together. Bend the top to form the candy cane shape.
This step adds to the festive look and keeps the design while baking.
Baking Tips for Perfect Results
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for eight to nine minutes, watching to avoid overcooking.
The parchment helps with even baking and prevents sticking. Once golden, take the cookies out and let them cool. You can store them at room temperature for a week, in the fridge for two weeks, or freeze for up to three months.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 1 week |
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks |
| Freezer (Baked) | Up to 3 months |
| Freezer (Unbaked) | Up to 3 months |
Storing and Freezing Your Candy Cane Cookies
To enjoy your Candy Cane Cookies fully, proper storage is key. It keeps them fresh for days or weeks. This guide covers storing baked cookies and freezing dough, so your treats are always ready.
How to Store Baked Cookies
Baked Candy Cane Cookies stay fresh for up to two weeks. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and chewy. For longer storage, freeze them.
After cooling, stack cookies with parchment paper in between. This prevents sticking. They can be frozen for months without losing flavor.
Freezing Unbaked Dough
Freezing unbaked dough is great for baking fresh cookies anytime. Shape the dough into twisted candy cane shapes. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag. This makes it easy to bake just what you need. It’s perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute holiday gatherings.
Creative Variations of Candy Cane Cookies
Ready to make your candy cane cookies special? The holiday season is perfect for trying new flavors and decorations. This way, your festive cookies will be unforgettable.
Using Different Flavor Extracts
Try adding different flavor extracts to your cookies. You could use almond or vanilla instead of peppermint. This makes your holiday baking fun and lets everyone enjoy their favorite flavors.
Incorporating Other Festive Decorations
Decorate your cookies with crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or icing designs. You could also add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and taste. These changes make your cookies look and taste amazing. So, don’t be afraid to get creative and make your peppermint treats stand out!
Serving Ideas for Candy Cane Cookies
Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for the holiday season. They look great and taste amazing. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges or as gifts for your loved ones.
Holiday Cookie Exchanges
Cookie exchanges are great for sharing homemade treats. Candy Cane Cookies are a hit at these events. They show off your baking skills and add to the festive vibe.
- Make around 30 cookies to share with friends and family.
- Present them in decorative packaging for added charm.
- Incorporate variations in flavor or decoration to capture everyone’s interest.
Perfect Gifts for Friends and Family
Baked goods make great gifts. Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for this. Package them in gift boxes or tins for a beautiful gift. Add them to gift baskets with other treats.
- Pair cookies with festive items like hot cocoa mixes for a complete gift experience.
- Add a personal note or recipe card sharing the joy of your christmas cookie recipes.
- Customize your packaging with holiday colors and ribbons for an attractive presentation.
| Theme | Cookie Count | Preparation Time | Baking Time | Calories per Cookie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cookie Exchange | 30 | 20 minutes | 9 minutes | 91 |
| Gift Giving | 24 | 20 minutes | 8 minutes | 141 |
Health Benefits of Using Real Ingredients
Choosing real ingredients for holiday baking boosts the quality and health of your treats. Home-baked goodies made with wholesome parts offer many benefits over store-bought ones. This method not only improves health but also makes baking more enjoyable.
Home-baked vs. Store-bought Treats
Home-baked treats are fresher and have no artificial preservatives. Making cookies at home lets you control the ingredients for a healthier result. For example, using unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and natural flavorings improves both texture and taste.
These ingredients, like unsalted butter and powdered white sugar, are chosen for their quality. All-purpose flour adds important nutrients like iron and calcium, boosting overall health.
Incorporating Natural Flavors
Using natural flavors makes holiday baking even better. Adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract or candy canes gives your cookies a wonderful taste without artificial additives. Ingredients like semi-sweet chocolate chunks and vanilla extract add depth to your recipes.
By focusing on natural flavors, you make cookies that are both delicious and healthy. This way, every bite is a treat that’s good for you.
Tips for Success in Candy Cane Cookie Baking
Baking Candy Cane Cookies can be fun if you follow some tips. This recipe might have its challenges, but knowing how to avoid mistakes makes it easier. Baking with kids turns it into a fun family activity, creating memories as you decorate together.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
One common problem is cookies spreading too much. To fix this, adjust the flour or chill the dough for a few hours. Bake one sheet at a time for even results. Chilling the cookies helps them keep their shape.
Bake at 375 degrees for 9-12 minutes. This temperature gives them a light brown color, making them look festive.
Getting Kids Involved in the Baking Process
Getting kids to help with holiday baking is a great way to involve them. They can roll out the dough and shape it into candy canes. This helps them develop a love for baking and creativity.
They can also decorate the cookies with crushed candy canes or sanding sugar. Baking together strengthens family bonds and spreads holiday cheer through every cookie.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Butter | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Peppermint Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Egg | 1 |
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 1/2 cups |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Food Coloring | 1/2 teaspoon |
For more easy recipes, check out this link. It has a variety of treats for all seasons!
Conclusion
Candy Cane Cookies capture the holiday spirit perfectly. Their tasty flavors and festive look make them a top choice for the season. Baking them with family or sharing with friends is a great way to spread cheer.
They’re quick to make, with only 25 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of baking. You’ll get about 30 cookies, each with just 110 calories. This makes them a guilt-free treat.
By following the simple recipe and adding your own twist, you can make unique Candy Cane Cookies. The mix of sugar, butter, eggs, peppermint, and crushed candy canes is sure to delight. These cookies will be a hit at any holiday gathering.
This holiday, enjoy baking these festive cookies. They taste amazing and are great for gifts or cookie exchanges. Share the joy of the season with your homemade Candy Cane Cookies. Let the spirit of joy and togetherness fill the air.
F.A.Q
What are Candy Cane Cookies?
Candy Cane Cookies are festive holiday treats. They mix sugar cookie elements with peppermint flavor, shaped like candy canes. Their red and white swirls make them a hit for holiday baking and gatherings.
How do I make Candy Cane Cookies?
To make Candy Cane Cookies, you need basic ingredients like unsalted butter, sugar, eggs, baking powder, and flour. First, cream butter and sugar. Then, add eggs and peppermint extract. Finally, shape and bake the cookies.
Can I freeze Candy Cane Cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze Candy Cane Cookie dough! Shape the dough into logs and freeze them on a baking sheet. Then, move them to a zip-top bag for longer storage. This way, you can bake fresh cookies whenever you like.
What are some creative variations for Candy Cane Cookies?
You can try different flavor extracts like almond or vanilla. Add crushed candy canes, colorful sprinkles, or icing for decoration. These changes make the cookies more festive and cater to different tastes.
How should I store my baked Candy Cane Cookies?
Store baked Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This keeps them fresh and delicious for your holiday gatherings.
Are Candy Cane Cookies suitable for children to help make?
Absolutely! Baking Candy Cane Cookies is a fun and memorable holiday activity for kids. They can help shape the cookies and add decorations, which fosters their interest in baking.
What makes homemade Candy Cane Cookies better than store-bought?
Homemade Candy Cane Cookies let you control the ingredients. You can use real butter, sugar, and natural flavorings without artificial additives. This makes them healthier treats that fit a health-conscious holiday baking approach.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, you might need to adjust your flour or chill the dough better. This helps keep their shape during baking.
