Candy Cane Cookies
These colorful candy cane cookies are perfect for holiday parties, combining a buttery base with a hint of peppermint for a festive treat.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet lined with parchment paper
- 1 electric mixer
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup confectioners' sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- Red food coloring
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. Add red food coloring to one portion, kneading gently until the color is evenly distributed. Wrap both dough portions in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll a small amount of each color dough into ropes about 4 inches long. Twist one red and one plain rope together, then curve the top to form a candy cane shape. Place on a prepared baking sheet.
Serving
- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve as part of a holiday dessert spread or gift them to friends and family.
Storage
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Notes
Pro Tips: Chill the dough before shaping to prevent spreading. Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors. Handle dough gently to maintain twist pattern.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter for dietary needs.
How to Serve: Serve with hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy treat.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough in advance and freeze until ready to bake.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter for dietary needs.
How to Serve: Serve with hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy treat.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough in advance and freeze until ready to bake.