Reminiscing about Candy Cane Cookies always takes me back to the cozy kitchen of my grandmother’s house during the holiday season. As a child, I can still vividly remember the aroma of peppermint and the vibrant red and white swirls of her famous Candy Cane Cookies. She’d let me help mix the dough, carefully shape each one, and then we’d eagerly watch as they baked to perfection in the oven. The anticipation was always palpable as we waited for them to cool so we could dig in. Grandma’s Candy Cane Cookies were the highlight of my Christmas, and they’ve remained a treasured tradition that I’m excited to continue with my own family.
Why This Candy Cane Cookie Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The secret behind my grandmother’s legendary Candy Cane Cookies was her attention to detail and the perfect balance of flavors. She didn’t just throw together a basic sugar cookie dough – oh no, she meticulously crafted a recipe that produced the most delightfully soft and chewy cookies, with a vibrant peppermint punch that lingered on your tongue. And now, I’m thrilled to share this treasured family recipe with you, so you can experience the magic of these festive Candy Cane Cookies in your own home.
The Secret Behind Perfect Candy Cane Cookie
The key to achieving that signature Candy Cane Cookie texture is all in the technique. You see, Grandma would chill the dough for at least an hour before baking, which helps the cookies hold their shape beautifully. And the secret ingredient she always included? A splash of peppermint extract, which takes the peppermint flavor to new heights. Trust me, once you try these Candy Cane Cookies, you’ll be hooked for life.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Unsalted butter: For the perfect tender, buttery base
- Granulated sugar: To sweeten the dough and create that classic cookie texture
- Egg: Helps bind the ingredients and adds richness
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor
- Peppermint extract: Delivers that signature peppermint punch
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for the cookie dough
- Baking powder: Gives the cookies a delicate rise
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the other flavors
Step-by-Step Candy Cane Cookie Instructions
Preparing Your Candy Cane Cookie
Ready to bake up a batch of these festive Candy Cane Cookies? It’s easier than you might think! The entire process, from start to finish, takes about an hour and a half, including the crucial chilling time. You’ll need a stand mixer or hand mixer, a large baking sheet, and a couple of basic kitchen tools to get started.
1- Begin by creaming the butter and sugar together in your mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Then, beat in the egg, vanilla, and peppermint extract until well combined.
2- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together.
3- Divide the dough in half and roll each piece into a long, thin log about 1-inch in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to 3 days).
4- Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the dough logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5- Bake the Candy Cane Cookies for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown. Be careful not to overbake them, as you want them to stay nice and soft.
6- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they’re ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfectly chewy Candy Cane Cookies is all in the chilling and slicing. Don’t skip that essential chilling step – it really helps the cookies hold their shape and texture. And when it comes to slicing the dough, use a sharp knife and cut the logs into thin, even rounds for the best results.
Another pro tip? Don’t be afraid to get creative with the peppermint flavor. If you’re a real peppermint lover, try adding a few drops of extra peppermint extract to the dough. And for an extra festive touch, you can even sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of the baked cookies.
Serving and Storing Your Candy Cane Cookie
Perfect Pairings for Candy Cane Cookie
Candy Cane Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat, but they’re also incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside a steaming mug of hot chocolate or eggnog for the quintessential Christmas pairing. Or, enjoy them with a tall glass of milk for a classic cookie-and-milk combo that’s sure to satisfy.
These festive cookies also make a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie platter or dessert spread. They pair beautifully with other seasonal favorites like gingerbread, snowball cookies, and peppermint bark. And don’t forget to save a few for Santa – he’s sure to appreciate the extra special touch of homemade Candy Cane Cookies.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about Candy Cane Cookies is that they keep incredibly well. Once the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months, making them the perfect make-ahead holiday treat.
If you want to get a head start on your baking, you can even prepare the dough in advance. Simply make the dough, shape it into logs, wrap them tightly, and chill in the fridge for up to 3 days before slicing and baking. That way, you can have freshly baked Candy Cane Cookies ready to go whenever the craving strikes.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Candy Cane Cookie
Creative Candy Cane Cookie Variations
The classic Candy Cane Cookie is a true holiday staple, but there’s no reason you can’t put your own unique spin on this festive treat. For a fun twist, try adding chopped dark chocolate or white chocolate chips to the dough. Or, for an extra burst of peppermint flavor, swirl in some crushed candy canes before baking.
You can also get creative with the shapes – instead of traditional rounds, try twisting the dough into candy cane or spiral shapes. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different mix-ins, like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even a hint of espresso powder for a mocha-peppermint flavor.
Making Candy Cane Cookie Diet-Friendly
Believe it or not, you can even make these Candy Cane Cookies diet-friendly! For a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. And to make them vegan, use dairy-free butter or coconut oil in place of the regular butter, and replace the egg with a flax or chia “egg.”
You can also lighten things up by reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe or using a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Just be sure to adjust the other ingredients accordingly to maintain the perfect texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?
A: You can, but I’d recommend using a bit less peppermint oil than the amount of extract called for in the recipe. Peppermint oil is much more concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Start with just 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint oil and adjust to taste.
Q: How do I get the perfect swirled pattern on the Candy Cane Cookies?
A: The key is to chill the dough logs thoroughly before slicing. The chilling helps the dough hold its shape, making it easier to get those beautiful swirls. Be sure to slice the logs evenly and gently, without squeezing or distorting the dough.
Q: Can I freeze the baked Candy Cane Cookies?
A: Absolutely! Baked Candy Cane Cookies freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.
Q: How many Candy Cane Cookies does this recipe make?
A: This recipe will yield approximately 24-30 cookies, depending on how thinly you slice the dough logs. The exact number may vary slightly, but it’s a great recipe for feeding a crowd or sharing with friends and family.
Q: What if my Candy Cane Cookies spread too much during baking?
A: If your cookies are spreading too much, make sure you’re chilling the dough logs long enough before baking. You can also try reducing the amount of butter in the recipe or adding a bit more flour. And be sure not to overbake them – the cookies should still be soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
Candy Cane Cookies
- Total Time: 18
- Yield: 24 cookies
Description
Indulge in the delightful, minty-fresh taste of homemade Candy Cane Cookies – a quick and easy Christmas classic that’s sure to delight!
Ingredients
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring
Instructions
1. – Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. – In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. – Beat in the egg and peppermint extract until well combined.
4. – Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms.
5. – Divide the dough in half. Knead the red food coloring into one half to create the red swirl.
6. – Roll each half of the dough into a log, about 1-inch thick. Twist the logs together to create the candy cane shape.
7. – Slice the dough into 1/2-inch thick cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. – Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. – Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
For best results, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping and baking. You can also experiment with different food coloring shades to create unique candy cane designs.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Grandma’s Candy Cane Cookies will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I’m thrilled to be able to share this beloved recipe with you. Trust me, once you try these festive, peppermint-packed cookies, they’ll become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of Candy Cane Cookies. I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you!
