Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and these Candy Cane Cookies embody that festive spirit in every delightful bite! With their vibrant red and white swirls, they not only look the part but also astonish with a burst of peppermint flavor that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Soft, buttery, and sprinkled with crushed candy canes, these cookies will fill your home with sweet aromas and warm memories. Let’s dive into this easy baking adventure that’s sure to become a tradition!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet buttery aroma.
- Add the vanilla, almond, and peppermint extracts to the bowl, mixing well to ensure every bite will be infused with delicious flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Divide the dough in half. To one half, add the red food coloring. Mix until the color is evenly distributed, creating a beautiful shade of red.
- Take small pieces from each dough (the red and the white) and roll them into logs of equal length, about 6 inches long.
- Twist the two logs together, forming a classic candy cane shape, and gently press the ends to seal them together.
- Place the formed cookies on the prepared baking sheets, giving them a little room to spread.
- Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with the crushed candy canes, adding a festive crunch.
- For an extra sweet touch, roll each cookie in granulated sugar before baking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden and your house smells heavenly!
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then gently transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize the level of peppermint intensity by adjusting the amount of peppermint extract according to your taste. These cookies can also be decorated with a drizzle of white chocolate for added sweetness and flair. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for days!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugar, be sure not to rush the process—take your time to combine them until they are light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the best texture in your cookies. Additionally, when forming the dough logs, make sure they are of even size for uniform baking. Finally, the cool cooling step on wire racks allows air to circulate, preventing sogginess and ensuring a perfect crisp edge.
FAQ
Can I make these cookies in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, shape the cookies, and then freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the bake time.
What should I do if I can’t find red food coloring?
You can use any food coloring you prefer, or even leave the cookies uncolored for a delightful twist on the classic look!
Conclusion
These Candy Cane Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a symbol of joy and togetherness during the holiday season. Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or just a cozy night in with loved ones, they are sure to bring smiles all around. So don your apron and let the baking begin—these cookies will fill your home with laughter and love this festive season!