Festive Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Craving a holiday treat that combines fun and flavor? These festive candy cane cookies are a delightful way to bring some cheer to your kitchen. Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa, these cookies are not just visually appealing but also deliciously sweet with a hint of peppermint.

Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie that melts in your mouth, with a refreshing kick of peppermint. These candy cane cookies are an absolute must for the holiday season, bringing a touch of nostalgia to every bite. They’re easy to make and can be a fun family activity, so gather everyone around and get started!

Creating a Holiday Tradition

The process of baking festive candy cane cookies can quickly become a cherished holiday tradition. The delightful combination of ingredients creates a joyful atmosphere in the kitchen, perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings.

Gather your loved ones and share in the fun of shaping these cookies into iconic candy cane forms. Each twist and bend of the dough adds a personal touch, making every batch unique.

Ingredients That Bring Joy

The beauty of these cookies lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. A buttery base forms the foundation, while the addition of peppermint extract infuses each bite with a refreshing twist. The crunch of crushed candy canes on top provides a delightful contrast to the soft texture of the cookie.

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth satisfaction. While gathering supplies, consider using vibrant candy canes to enhance the visual appeal of your cookies.

The Baking Process: A Sensory Experience

Preheating the oven fills the kitchen with warmth, setting the stage for the delightful scents that will soon follow. The mixture of butter and sugar transforms into a light and fluffy texture, inviting anticipation for the delicious cookies to come.

As you blend in the egg and extracts, the aroma of vanilla and peppermint fills the air, stimulating the senses. Each step in the process adds to the excitement, making it more than just baking—it’s a sensory celebration of the holiday season.

Decoration: Adding a Touch of Festivity

Once baked to golden perfection, the cookies are ready for their final touch. A sprinkle of crushed candy canes adds not just flavor but also a festive flair. Watching the vibrant red and white pieces cling to the warm cookies is a joy in itself.

Allowing the cookies to cool on a wire rack lets the flavors meld together, creating a truly delightful treat. This process also gives a moment to appreciate the holiday spirit, with cookies that are as visually appealing as they are tasty.

Sharing the Joy

These festive candy cane cookies are perfect for sharing, whether at holiday parties or as gifts for friends and neighbors. Presenting them on a rustic wooden table, surrounded by twinkling lights and a cozy mug of hot cocoa, creates an inviting setting that enhances the festive spirit.

As each person takes a bite, the sweet taste of peppermint and buttery goodness brings smiles and warmth to the occasion. These cookies are not just a treat; they represent a shared experience, making memories that last long after the last crumb is gone.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To achieve the best results, here are a few tips. Ensure that the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a fluffier texture. Measuring ingredients accurately will help maintain consistency in the dough.

When shaping the cookies, don’t worry about achieving perfection. Each candy cane shape can vary, adding to their charm. Enjoy the process, and remember that the love and effort put into baking are what truly matter.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Egg and Extracts: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Shape the Cookies: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into logs. Bend each log to form a candy cane shape. Place them on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove them from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for a couple of minutes.
7. Finish with Topping: While still warm, sprinkle the tops of the cookies with crushed candy canes. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories: 120kcal
• Fat: 7g
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 14g