Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of holiday baking, where the air is filled with sweetness and the joy of festive treats. These Candy Cane Cookies are a true celebration of flavor and holiday spirit! With their vibrant colors and classic peppermint flavor, they make the perfect addition to any holiday cookie platter. The charming candy cane shape and the burst of crunchy candy cane pieces add a whimsical touch that is sure to bring smiles to friends and family alike. Let’s get started on creating some holiday magic in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
- Red and green colored sugar for decoration
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, setting the stage for your delicious creations.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, infusing it with a luscious texture.
- Beat in the egg, along with the vanilla and almond extracts, mixing until everything is beautifully combined.
- 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 to keep the cookies tender.
- Gently fold in the peppermint extract and the crushed candy canes, ensuring that every bite will have that festive crunch and minty flavor.
- Divide the dough in half, coloring one half with red food coloring to create vivid contrast.
- Roll out small pieces of each colored dough into long ropes, then twist one red and one white rope together for each cookie, creating a beautiful spiral effect.
- Shape the twisted ropes into iconic candy cane forms and place them on your prepared baking sheet, anticipation building as they take shape.
- Sprinkle the tops of your cookies with red and green colored sugar, giving them a sparkling holiday touch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown, infusing your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an even more festive flair, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies or adding a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top. Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They also make lovely gifts during the holiday season!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugar, make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best results. This allows for a smooth and creamy mixture that will help your cookies maintain their lovely texture. Be careful not to overmix the dough when adding the flour; this will help keep your cookies soft and tender. With the twists, feel free to get creative—vary the thickness of your ropes for different candy cane sizes!
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, shape the candies, and then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just ensure you allow them to come to room temperature before placing them in the oven.
What can I substitute for butter?
While butter gives the best flavor, you can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How do I store the cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage — they also make wonderful holiday gifts!
Conclusion
These Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful way to embrace the holiday spirit, with their festive colors and delightful flavors. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or at a workplace gathering, these cookies are sure to spread joy and cheer. Happy baking, and may your holidays be as sweet as these delicious treats!