Introduction
There’s something simply enchanting about the holiday season, and what better way to celebrate than with a batch of vibrant and festive Candy Cane Cookies? These delightful treats combine the buttery richness of classic cookies with the refreshing taste of peppermint and a sprinkle of holiday cheer. With their cheerful red and white swirls, they’re not just delicious; they’re also a feast for the eyes! Perfect for sharing with friends and family, these cookies will surely add a touch of magic to your gatherings.
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
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a base that’s rich and luscious.
- Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, beating until everything is well combined, and the aroma wafts through your kitchen.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined — be careful not to overwork the dough!
- Gently stir in the peppermint extract and those vibrant crushed candy canes, making sure they’re evenly distributed for a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Divide the dough in half, and color one half with red food coloring, kneading it lightly to achieve a uniform shade.
- Roll out small pieces of each color of dough into long ropes. Twist one red and one white rope together for each cookie, creating that signature candy cane swirl.
- Shape the twisted dough into a cute candy cane shape and carefully place them on the prepared baking sheet, giving them some space to spread.
- Sprinkle the tops generously with red and green colored sugar, adding a festive sparkle to your creations.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and your home is filled with the aroma of holiday goodness.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is key for achieving the perfect texture!
Notes or Tips
These cookies are wonderful for holiday gifting! Wrap them in festive cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a charming present. If you want to mix things up, try using different extracts like coconut or adding a drizzle of white chocolate on top for an extra touch of sweetness. Don’t forget to enjoy some alongside a warm cup of cocoa!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugar, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature; this helps create that fluffy texture. Be gentle when incorporating the flour mixture to avoid tough cookies. For an even cook, ensure that your cookie shapes are uniform in size. And remember, let them cool completely to lock in the delightful flavors and textures!
FAQ
Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. You can also freeze the cookies after baking for up to 3 months — just thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.
What can I substitute for the crushed candy canes? If you cannot find candy canes, you could use peppermint bark or even chocolate chips for a different flavor experience!
Conclusion
These Candy Cane Cookies are not only a delight to eat but also a joy to make, bringing a touch of festive spirit to your kitchen. As you enjoy the rich, buttery flavors intertwined with the coolness of peppermint, you’ll find that every bite is a sweet reminder of the magic of the holiday season. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with love and delicious treats!