Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

The Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is a delightful treat that adds a festive touch to your holiday celebrations. With their vibrant colors and refreshing peppermint flavor, these cookies are perfect for sharing at parties, gifting, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea. Their unique twisted shape not only makes them visually appealing but also brings a touch of nostalgia to the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor: The combination of vanilla and peppermint creates a deliciously sweet and minty taste that captures the essence of Christmas.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the color intensity or decoration to suit your holiday theme.
• Great for Sharing: These cookies make wonderful gifts or party favors, adding cheer to any gathering.
• Fun Activity: Twisting the dough into candy cane shapes is a fun activity for kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Christmas Candy Cane Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline the process and ensure your cookies come out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Plastic wrap
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when beating butter and sugar together, ensuring a smooth dough.
• Plastic wrap: Wrapping the dough helps it chill properly, which is essential for shaping the cookies.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup real butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 egg
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Color and Decoration

• Red food coloring gel
• 2 tablespoons finely crushed peppermint candies
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

How to Make Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, beat together butter, both sugars, both extracts, and egg on low speed until just combined. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until fully integrated.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough in half to create two equal portions. Add red food coloring gel to one portion until you achieve your desired shade. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3-4 hours.

Step 3: Mix Peppermint Sugar

In a small bowl, combine finely crushed peppermint candies with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Set this mixture aside for sprinkling on top later.

Step 4: Preheat Your Oven

Before shaping the cookies, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Take one level teaspoon from each color of dough. Roll each teaspoon into a 5-inch rope (a ruler can help). Place the red and white ropes side by side and twist them together while pressing the ends so they stay intact.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Place each twisted cookie on an ungreased baking sheet. Curve the top to give it that classic candy cane shape. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Immediately sprinkle with the peppermint-sugar mixture after removing from the oven.

Step 7: Cool Down

Transfer your freshly baked cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these festive treats! Happy baking!

How to Serve Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

These delightful Christmas Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for the holiday season. They can be enjoyed in various ways to elevate your festive gatherings.

With Hot Cocoa

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat. The chocolate complements the peppermint flavors beautifully.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in cellophane and tie them with a festive ribbon. They make charming party favors for your holiday celebrations.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside other holiday sweets. Their vibrant colors will brighten up any spread.

With Ice Cream

• Enjoy these cookies crumbled over vanilla or mint ice cream for an extra special dessert. The crunch adds a delightful texture.

With Coffee or Tea

• Serve these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. The combination of flavors is sure to please everyone.

How to Perfect Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Christmas Candy Cane Cookies, follow these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps maintain its shape while baking, ensuring that your cookies hold their design.
• Use Fresh Peppermint: Opt for fresh peppermint candies for more intense flavor and texture. This enhances the overall experience of each bite.
• Adjust Food Coloring: Add food coloring gradually to achieve your desired shade of red. This allows you to control the intensity without overpowering the cookie’s flavor.
• Don’t Overbake: Watch your cookies closely while they bake. Remove them when they are lightly browned to keep them soft and chewy inside.
• Experiment with Shapes: Feel free to get creative with shapes! While candy canes are classic, you can also make simple circles or hearts for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

These side dishes pair wonderfully with Christmas Candy Cane Cookies, making your holiday meal even more special.

1. Eggnog: A classic festive drink that brings creamy richness and warmth, perfect alongside sweet treats.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies, adding a light touch to your dessert table.
3. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses with crackers and nuts for savory contrast against sweet cookies.
4. Spiced Nuts: Offer a bowl of spiced nuts for guests who enjoy crunchy snacks that complement the cookie’s flavors.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip cookie pieces into warm melted chocolate.
6. Christmas Cheesecake: A rich cheesecake flavored with holiday spices serves as an indulgent option next to lighter cookie treats.
7. Gingerbread Truffles: These no-bake delights provide an additional festive flavor profile and pair nicely with peppermint.
8. Mulled Cider: Serve warm mulled cider spiced with cinnamon and cloves as a comforting beverage option alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Christmas Candy Cane Cookies can be a joy, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the refrigeration step can lead to overly soft cookies that lose their shape. Always chill the dough for 3-4 hours for better results.
• Overmixing: Mixing the dough too much can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined to ensure a tender texture.
• Incorrect measuring of flour: Using too much flour can result in dry cookies. Use a spoon to fluff the flour before scooping it into your measuring cup.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies and take them out when they are lightly browned, even if it’s slightly before or after the suggested time.
• Skipping decoration: Not sprinkling the peppermint mixture right after baking means missing out on the festive look and flavor. Be sure to add it immediately after they come out of the oven.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag; they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for about 30 seconds, covered, to warm through without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about the Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe.

Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint?

Yes! You can experiment with vanilla or almond extract for different flavors, though peppermint gives that classic holiday taste.

How do I achieve brighter red color in my cookies?

To enhance the color, you may add more red food coloring gel gradually until you reach your desired shade, ensuring it mixes evenly within the dough.

Can I customize this Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe?

Definitely! You can add chocolate chips or nuts for variation. Just remember not to overwhelm the dough with too many additions.

How long will these cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly, these cookies will remain fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is not only festive but also versatile and fun! With a delightful peppermint flavor and beautiful swirls, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings. Feel free to customize them with different extracts or toppings for a unique twist. Try making them today and bring some holiday cheer into your kitchen!