Name: Candy Cane Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; Red gel food coloring

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Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time:

Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 10 min | Total Time: 25 min

how to make Candy Cane Cookies

Ingredients:

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Red gel food coloring

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract; mix well until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Divide the dough in half and tint one half with red gel food coloring.
Roll out small pieces of each color into long, thin ropes.
Twist one white rope and one red rope together to form a candy cane shape.
Place the candy cane shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until set.
Allow to cool before serving.

Pro Tips

Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
Use parchment paper on your baking sheets for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Don’t overbake the cookies; they should remain soft but set.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Candy Cane Cookies are fun to make and a festive treat. They are great for Christmas parties and family gatherings. The mix of vanilla and peppermint gives them a unique flavor that is loved by many. Plus, they look beautiful on any dessert table!

how to serve Candy Cane Cookies

Serve these cookies on a festive plate, ideally with some hot cocoa or a cup of warm milk. They make a wonderful holiday gift when packaged in a decorative box.

how to store Candy Cane Cookies

Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

tips to make Candy Cane Cookies

For a stronger peppermint flavor, add a bit more peppermint extract.
Experiment with using green gel food coloring for an alternative look.
You can sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before baking for extra crunch and festive flair.

variation

You can also make Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies by adding cocoa powder to half of the dough. Combine both flavors for a unique twist!

Nutrition Information:

Storage and Reheating

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply microwave them for a few seconds.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. You can also adjust the color palette by using different gel food colorings.

Disclaimer:

All recipes may vary based on ingredient brands and personal cooking methods. Please adjust ingredients as needed for dietary restrictions.

why make this recipe

Making Candy Cane Cookies brings joy to the holiday season. They are easy to make and enjoyable to eat. Plus, creating them can be a fun activity for families and friends!

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but it may change the flavor and texture slightly.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No, this dough does not require chilling, making it quick to prepare!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend.
How long will the cookies last?
They can last up to a week in an airtight container.
Can I decorate these cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to add icing or sprinkles for extra decoration.