Here’s a flavorful and easy-to-make Candy Cane Cookies recipe that’s perfect for the holiday season. These buttery, peppermint-flavored cookies are shaped like classic candy canes, making them a delightful addition to your Christmas celebrations. The red and white swirls give them a festive look, and their crisp yet tender texture makes them irresistible.
I first discovered these cookies when searching for a fun holiday baking project with my family. After a few test batches, I found the perfect balance of vanilla and peppermint flavors, and now they are a must-have every December. These cookies bring back childhood memories and are always a crowd-pleaser at holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love These Candy Cane Cookies
- Festive and Fun – Their candy cane shape and red-and-white swirl make them perfect for Christmas.
- Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples like butter, sugar, flour, and peppermint extract.
- Kid-Friendly – A great baking activity to do with kids who will love twisting the dough.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – These cookies can be stored well, making them perfect for holiday gifting.
Ingredients Notes
- Butter: Unsalted butter ensures a rich and creamy texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and structure.
- Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together.
- Peppermint Extract: Adds a classic candy cane flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor profile.
- All-Purpose Flour: Creates the base of the cookie dough.
- Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness.
- Red Food Coloring: Gives the cookies their signature red and white swirls.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing Bowls
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Baking Sheets
- Parchment Paper
- Rolling Pin
How To Make These Candy Cane Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients.
- Divide the dough in half. Color one portion with red food coloring and leave the other plain.
Step 2: Shape the Candy Canes
- Take a small portion of each dough color and roll them into 4-inch ropes.
- Twist one red and one white rope together, then bend the top to form a candy cane shape.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until just set.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Storage Options
Proper storage is key to keeping your Candy Cane Cookies fresh, maintaining their festive shape, texture, and delightful flavor. Here are the best storage methods for different timeframes:
Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days)
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent the colors from fading.
- If stacking cookies, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking or breakage.
Medium-Term Storage (Up to 1 Week)
- If you need to keep them fresh for several days, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Refrigeration helps maintain moisture and prevents the cookies from drying out.
- Allow cookies to come to room temperature before serving to bring back their original texture.
Long-Term Storage (Up to 3 Months)
- Candy Cane Cookies freeze well. To freeze:
- Arrange cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
- Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Freezing Dough for Later Use
- You can also freeze the cookie dough before baking:
- Shape the dough into logs or portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight, then roll and shape as needed.
Variations and Substitutions
Customizing your Candy Cane Cookies is easy! Here are some variations to try:
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies – Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the dough for a rich, chocolatey twist.
- Almond-Flavored Cookies – Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty depth of flavor.
- Cinnamon-Spiced Cookies – Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to enhance the holiday warmth.
Color Variations
- Instead of the classic red and white, try green and white or blue and white for a wintery theme.
- Use natural food coloring for a healthier, dye-free option.
Texture Enhancements
- For a chewier cookie, add an extra tablespoon of butter to the dough.
- For a crispier cookie, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes until edges are golden.
Dairy-Free or Vegan Substitutions
- Butter Alternative – Swap butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Egg Replacement – Use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2 tbsp water per egg) to make them vegan.
Gluten-Free Option
- Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour to accommodate dietary needs.
With these storage methods and creative variations, you can enjoy Candy Cane Cookies all season long while customizing them to your taste! Let me know if you need any further adjustments.
Conclusion
Candy Cane Cookies are the perfect holiday treat with their festive appearance and delicious peppermint flavor. Whether you’re baking them for family gatherings, holiday parties, or edible gifts, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa and share the joy of homemade holiday baking!