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candy cake cookies in a tin box.
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5 from 1 vote

Candy Cane Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies are festive, minty treats perfect for the holiday season. With their beautiful red and white swirls and delicious peppermint flavor, these cookies are sure to delight everyone.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Chilling Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Cookies, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: candy cane cookies
Servings: 24
Calories: 138kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
  • cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • red food coloring a couple drops
  • granulated sugar for sprinkling, optional

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
    process shots showing how to make candy cane cookies.
  • Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Beat until well combined. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
    process shots showing how to make candy cane cookies.
  • Divide the dough into two equal portions. Leave one portion plain. Add a few drops of red food coloring to the second portion of dough and knead until the color is evenly distributed.
    process shots showing how to make candy cane cookies.
  • Wrap both portions of dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until firm.
    process shots showing how to make candy cane cookies.
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Take about a tablespoon of each dough (white and red) and roll them into 4-5 inch ropes. Gently twist the red and white dough ropes together and curve the top to form a candy cane shape. Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
    process shots showing how to make candy cane cookies.
  • Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are meant to be tender and soft. While the cookies are still warm, sprinkle them with granulated sugar for a sparkly finish.
    process shots showing how to make candy cane cookies.
  • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  1. Customize the Flavor: Try adding a touch of almond extract instead of peppermint for a unique flavor.
  2. Decorate Creatively: Top your cookies with colored sprinkles or mini candy canes for extra festive fun.
  3. Storage Tip: These cookies stay fresh longer if stored in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them soft.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 138kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 28mg | Sodium: 29mg | Potassium: 20mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 248IU | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 1mg
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