As I reached for the cookie jar during last year’s holiday season, the sight of vibrant red and white candy cane cookies brought back a rush of warm memories. These Classic Candy Cane Cookies are a festive treat that perfectly embodies the joy of Christmas, inviting both young and old alike to participate in the baking magic. With their buttery softness and a refreshing peppermint zing, they’re not just easy to make, but also an absolute crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. Plus, transforming this cookie-making into a family activity creates precious moments that will last far beyond the last crumb. Ready to discover a recipe that captures the spirit of the season?
Why Will You Love Candy Cane Cookies?
Joyful baking experience: Creating these Classic Candy Cane Cookies will make your kitchen come alive with laughter and excitement.
Buttery and soft: The rich texture along with a refreshing peppermint zing will leave everyone wanting more.
Festive flair: Their iconic red-and-white twist adds a perfect visual appeal to your holiday platter, making them a hit at gatherings.
Versatility at its best: With variations like Gluten-Free and Chocolate-Dipped, there’s a Candy Cane Cookie for everyone to enjoy. For more delightful treats, consider trying our Lemon Meltaway Cookies or Mouth Butter Cookies.
Easy to make: The step-by-step instructions make this a fun kitchen project that’s perfect for involving kids.
Memorable gifting: Pack them in festive boxes and surprise friends and family with homemade goodness.
Classic Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies, but can be substituted with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise and achieve that desirable fluffy texture.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough perfectly while allowing the other flavors to shine.
- Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together while adding moisture for a softer cookie.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor, bringing warmth to the cookie base.
- Peppermint Extract – Infuses the classic candy cane flavor; can swap with almond extract for a unique twist.
- Red Gel Food Coloring – Used for coloring half the dough and recommended for achieving vibrant color without adding moisture.
For Decoration
- Crushed Candy Canes or Sugar (optional) – Perfect for sprinkling on top for that festive touch and added crunch to your Classic Candy Cane Cookies.
Experience the joy of baking these cookies, and let their festive colors fill your home with holiday spirit!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Candy Cane Cookies
Step 1: Prep the Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, blending well to create a smooth dough.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully combined. Ensure there are no dry streaks remaining. The cookie dough should be soft but not sticky, holding together when formed into a ball. Once combined, divide the dough in half evenly between two bowls.
Step 3: Color the Dough
Take one half of the dough and add red gel food coloring, mixing thoroughly until you achieve a vibrant red hue. If needed, gradually add more gel until you reach the desired intensity. Leave the other half plain; this will give your Classic Candy Cane Cookies their iconic twist.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Wrap each portion of dough separately in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step helps to firm the dough, preventing excess spreading as the cookies bake and allows the flavors meld to perfection.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pinch off small pieces of red and plain dough, rolling each into ropes about 6 inches long. Twist the red rope with the plain one to shape them into a candy cane form, placing them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the formed cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the centers seem slightly soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake. Enjoy the delightful aroma of peppermint and butter filling your kitchen!
Step 7: Cool
After baking, remove the Classic Candy Cane Cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, feel free to sprinkle with crushed candy canes or sugar for an extra festive touch.
Classic Candy Cane Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs!
Chocolate Candy Cane: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to half of the dough for a delightful chocolatey twist. It’s a delicious surprise tucked within the festive layers!
Vanilla Almond Candy Canes: Replace peppermint extract with almond extract for a warm, nutty flavor. This variation will add a cozy touch to your holiday cookie spread.
Peppermint Swirl Cookies: Instead of twisting the dough, roll out layers and slice into spirals for a beautiful and unique presentation. These swirls will be a sight to behold on your icing sugar-dusted platters.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to easily cater to gluten-sensitive palates. Your gluten-free guests will thank you for creating a holiday treat they can enjoy!
Mini Candy Cane Bites: Shape and twist smaller pieces of dough for bite-sized treats that bake quickly and are perfect for sharing. These little bites pack all the flavor into a cute package!
Chocolate-Dipped Delight: Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for an indulgent touch. The rich chocolate combined with peppermint creates an irresistible flavor combo.
Sparkling Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle colored sugar or edible glitter on the cookies for a festive sparkle. These shimmering treats will catch the eye at any gathering!
Stuffed Candy Canes: Add a mini chocolate or peppermint candy in the center while shaping them. This hidden gem makes for a delightful surprise with each bite.
For more delightful ideas, consider trying our Classic Italian Meatball Sub or the sweet touch of Mexican Wedding Cookies. Let your holiday baking unfold with these fun variations!
How to Store and Freeze Classic Candy Cane Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Classic Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft and buttery texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh a bit longer, sprinkle a layer of parchment paper between cookie layers and store in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a sealed bag with parchment paper in between layers for up to 2 months. This prevents sticking and keeps flavors intact.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, place frozen cookies in a 275°F oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture before serving.
What to Serve with Classic Candy Cane Cookies?
The festive spirit of these cookies invites you to create a delightful holiday spread!
Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy warmth of hot chocolate complements the cool peppermint flavor, creating a comforting duo perfect for the holidays.
Festive Milk: Serve these cookies alongside a glass of cold milk, enhancing the sweetness while providing a traditional touch that everyone will love.
Peppermint Bark: The indulgent chocolate and peppermint layers in peppermint bark echo the candy cane theme, offering a delightful textural contrast.
Snowy Vanilla Cupcakes: Topped with fluffy white frosting, these light and airy cupcakes add elegance to your dessert table and balance the rich butteriness of the cookies.
Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices in cider harmonize beautifully with the peppermint cookie flavor, creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.
Holiday Fruit Platter: A bright assortment of citrus fruits, berries, and apples adds a refreshing and vibrant touch that contrasts with the rich cookies.
Creamy Cheesecake: A slice of classic cheesecake drizzled with chocolate or raspberry sauce offers a luxurious complement, perfect for after dinner.
Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced drink enhances the festive vibe, making it a sophisticated pairing for holiday gatherings.
Candy Cane Milkshake: Blend ice cream with peppermint for a fun and indulgent drink that mirrors the cookies’ flavors and delights both kids and adults.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps, then wrap the portions separately in plastic wrap and refrigerate them. This chilling step not only enhances the flavor but also allows the dough to firm up, preventing excess spreading when baked. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll and shape the chilled dough into candy cane forms and bake as instructed. Trust me, they’ll be just as delicious and festive, waiting for a moment of holiday joy!
Expert Tips for Classic Candy Cane Cookies
Chill the Dough: Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This prevents spreading and helps achieve that delightful shape for your Classic Candy Cane Cookies.
Use Gel Food Coloring: Opt for gel food coloring to ensure a vibrant red without altering the dough’s moisture. Liquid dyes can make your cookies too wet and affect the baking outcome.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers are slightly soft to maintain a soft, buttery texture.
Twist with Care: When shaping your cookies, make sure the ropes are of even thickness. This will help your Classic Candy Cane Cookies bake uniformly and look appealing.
Experiment with Flavors: For a twist, add chocolate chunks or candy pieces inside the dough before shaping. This creates a delightful surprise in each bite!
Classic Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, look for pure extracts without added sugars or artificial ingredients for the best flavor. Clear extracts tend to be stronger, while green or colored options may contain food coloring. If you’re looking for a lighter taste, almond extract can serve as a pleasant alternative.
How should I store Classic Candy Cane Cookies?
Store your Classic Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, stack them between sheets of parchment paper and keep them in the fridge for up to 7 days. This not only preserves their delightful softness but keeps them fresh for your festive enjoyment!
Can I freeze Classic Candy Cane Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze your Classic Candy Cane Cookies! To do this, place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. Add parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, preheat your oven to 275°F and warm them for just a few minutes for that fresh-baked experience.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If your cookie dough feels sticky after mixing, it might be due to the butter being too soft or not enough flour added. You can fix this by gradually adding a bit more flour (1 tablespoon at a time) until the dough holds together well without being overly tacky. Also, ensuring your butter is softened at room temperature instead of melted can help avoid this issue!
Are Classic Candy Cane Cookies safe for pets?
No, it’s best to avoid sharing these cookies with pets, especially dogs. Ingredients like butter and sugar in large quantities can be unhealthy for them, and peppermint essential oils can upset their stomachs. Always keep your festive treats out of reach to ensure the safety of your furry friends!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make Classic Candy Cane Cookies gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I recommend using one with xanthan gum to help maintain the cookie’s structure. Follow the recipe as written, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free treats suitable for your holiday gatherings!
Classic Candy Cane Cookies: Soft, Buttery, and Festively Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, and peppermint extract, blending well.
- Gradually blend the dry mixture into the butter mixture until combined. Divide the dough in half.
- Add red gel food coloring to one half and mix well. Leave the other half plain.
- Wrap each half in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet. Roll pieces of red and plain dough into ropes, twist them together to form candy canes.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set. Let cool before transferring to a wire rack.
- Sprinkle with crushed candy canes or sugar if desired.
