Candy Cane Cookies

Nothing says Christmas quite like the iconic candy cane cookies. These delightful treats are not only visually appealing with their festive red and white stripes but also bursting with the refreshing flavor of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply to enjoy at home, candy cane cookies are a fun and easy way to spread holiday cheer. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making these charming cookies, along with tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

Ingredients List

To create these festive candy cane cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Red food coloring

Substitution Suggestions:

• Butter: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a vegan version.
• Sugar: For a healthier alternative, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Tip: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing.

Step 2: Add the Egg and Extracts

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined. This adds moisture and flavor to the dough.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 4: Divide and Color the Dough

Divide the dough into two equal portions. Leave one portion plain and add red food coloring to the other portion, mixing until the color is vibrant and evenly distributed.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap each portion of dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a small piece of each colored dough and roll them into ropes about 6 inches long. Twist one red and one white rope together to form a candy cane shape. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Enjoy

Once cooled, enjoy your festive candy cane cookies with a glass of milk or share them with friends and family!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per cookie (based on a standard recipe yielding about 24 cookies):

• Calories: 100
• Total Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on substitutions and portion sizes.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make your candy cane cookies a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: This adds fiber and nutrients without sacrificing taste.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut the granulated sugar by 25% for a less sweet treat.
• Add Flavor: Experiment with almond extract for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Candy cane cookies can be served in various delightful ways:

• Holiday Dessert Table: Arrange them on a festive platter for a colorful display.
• Gift Giving: Package them in clear bags tied with ribbon for a charming homemade gift.
• Pairing Suggestions: Enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your candy cane cookies turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling is essential for maintaining the shape of the cookies.
• Overmixing: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your candy cane cookies fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked cookie shapes for up to three months. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, candy cane cookies are a festive and delicious treat that captures the spirit of the holiday season. With their cheerful appearance and delightful peppermint flavor, they are sure to bring joy to anyone who enjoys them. Try this easy recipe today, and share your feedback in the comments below or subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

1. Can I use other colors instead of red?

Yes! You can use any food coloring to create a variety of festive designs.

2. How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

3. Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.