Have you ever wondered how to create the perfect holiday cookie that captures the essence of the season? Did you know that over 60% of people enjoy baking festive cookies during the holidays? Candy Cane Cookies are not only visually stunning but also deliciously minty, making them a favorite during the festive season. This recipe will guide you through making these delightful cookies that are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s get started!

Ingredients List

Creating Candy Cane Cookies requires a few simple ingredients that come together for a delightful treat. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookie Dough:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness and flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Gives the cookies their signature minty flavor.
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base for the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.

For the Topping:

• ½ cup crushed candy canes: For a festive crunch and flavor.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Optional, for dusting.

Substitution Suggestions:

• Butter: Use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Sugar: Substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Peppermint Extract: Use almond extract for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until creamy and light.
3. Add Egg and Extracts: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

6. Chill: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

7. Shape Cookies: Once chilled, take small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and roll them into logs about 6 inches long.
8. Form Candy Canes: Bend each log into a “J” shape to form a candy cane, placing them on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

11. Crush Candy Canes: While the cookies are cooling, crush the candy canes into small pieces.
12. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar and sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your cookies can help you make informed choices. Here’s a breakdown per cookie (assuming 24 cookies):

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 16g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 1g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make these cookies a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor, consider these modifications:

• Reduce Sugar: Cut the sugar by 25% or use a sugar substitute.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Use Egg Substitute: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.

Serving Suggestions

These festive cookies can be served in various creative ways to enhance their appeal:

• Cookie Platters: Arrange them on a holiday-themed platter alongside other festive treats.
• Gift Bags: Package them in clear bags tied with a ribbon for holiday gifts.
• Hot Cocoa Pairing: Serve with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Candy Cane Cookies turn out perfectly, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Overmixing the Dough: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, so don’t skip this step!
• Baking Too Long: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be lightly golden, not browned.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Dough Storage: Unbaked cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Conclusion

In summary, Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful and festive treat that captures the spirit of the holiday season. With their minty flavor and charming appearance, they are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments or subscribe for more delicious holiday updates!

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use.

What can I use instead of peppermint extract?

You can use vanilla extract or almond extract for a different flavor profile.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.