Contents
Introduction
Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines the festive spirit of Christmas with the nostalgic flavors of peppermint and vanilla. These cheerful, spiraled cookies are not only a visual delight but also a delicious addition to any holiday gathering. With their striking red and white colors, they are perfect for sharing with friends and family, making them an ideal choice for cookie platters and gift-giving.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Butter – 1 cup
Granulated Sugar – 1 cup
Eggs – 1 large
Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
Almond Extract – 1/2 teaspoon
All-Purpose Flour – 2 1/2 cups
Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Red Food Coloring – a few drops
Crushed Candy Canes – 1/2 cup
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 10-12 minutes
Total Time – 30-32 minutes
Yield – Approximately 24 cookies
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and peppermint extract until well combined.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Color the Dough
Divide the dough in half. Add red food coloring to one half and mix until you achieve a rich red color.
Shape the Cookies
Take small pieces from each dough color and roll them into thin ropes, about 6 inches long. Twist one red rope with one white rope to form a candy cane shape.
Bake the Cookies
Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
Cool the Cookies
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Storing Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Adjusting Color
Feel free to adjust the amount of food coloring used to achieve your desired shade of red.
Flavor Variations
For a different flavor, consider substituting almond extract for the peppermint extract.
Cook techniques
Chilling the Dough
Chilling the dough helps in solidifying the butter, which leads to a better texture and shape during baking.
Twisting the Cookie Shape
To create the iconic candy cane shape, roll out pieces of red and white dough separately, then twist them together before cutting.
Baking Temperature
Baking the cookies at the right temperature ensures they bake evenly and achieve the perfect balance between crisp and chewy.
Using Peppermint Extract
Incorporating peppermint extract adds a strong flavor that complements the traditional candy cane taste.
Decorating with Sprinkles
Adding sprinkles or crushed candies on top before baking enhances the festive look and adds extra sweetness.
FAQ
Can I use different food coloring?
Yes, you can use any color you prefer to customize the appearance of your cookies.
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
Yes, once the cookies are fully cooled, they can be packaged securely and shipped without losing their shape.
What can I substitute for butter?
You can substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
Conclusion
Candy cane cookies are a delightful and festive treat that combines the sweetness of classic sugar cookies with the refreshing flavor of mint. With their appealing red and white spiral design, they make an excellent addition to holiday parties or cookie exchanges. This recipe not only brings joy to your taste buds but also creates wonderful memories during the holiday season as you bake and share these treats with family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Try incorporating crushed candy canes into chocolate cookie dough for a rich and minty twist on the classic cookie.
Minty Cheesecake Bars
For a creamy dessert, make cheesecake bars flavored with peppermint extract and topped with crushed candy canes.
White Chocolate Dipped Biscotti
Add a seasonal touch to biscotti by dipping them in white chocolate and sprinkling with crushed candy canes for a crunchy finish.
Brownie Peppermint Swirl
Marble peppermint cream cheese into brownie batter for a decadent and festive dessert.
Homemade Peppermint Bark
Layer dark and white chocolate with crushed candy canes to create a simple yet delightful holiday treat.
