Name: Festive Candy Cane Cookies for Christmas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup Powdered sugar; 1 large Large egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon Peppermint extract; 2 cups All-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon Baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Red gel food coloring; 1 cup Crushed peppermint candies; 1/4 cup Granulated sugar (for rolling); 1/2 cup White chocolate drizzle (optional)

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As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with a sense of cheer, and I find myself reaching for my baking supplies more and more. One unforgettable tradition in my kitchen is whipping up a batch of Festive Candy Cane Cookies for Christmas. The whispers of peppermint and the joyful colors of red and white not only brighten the table but also evoke fond memories of childhood festivities.

I still recall the delight on my family’s faces as they gathered around, sharing stories and laughter over these delicious treats. What’s more, this recipe is a breeze—perfect for both seasoned chefs and those who may just be diving into holiday baking for the first time. With just a handful of ingredients and a sprinkle of creativity, you’ll craft irresistible cookies that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Join me as we dive into this delightful holiday recipe that’s sure to become a cherished family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Festive Candy Cane Cookies for Christmas

These Festive Candy Cane Cookies are incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
You’ll love the delightful combination of peppermint and vanilla that fills your kitchen with holiday cheer.
Not only do they taste amazing, but their vibrant red and white colors create a stunning visual appeal that’s sure to impress your guests.
Plus, with a total time of just 30 minutes, you’ll have more time to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones.

Festive Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to create something magical!

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted butter – provides a creamy base, ensuring your cookies are rich and decadent.
Powdered sugar – creates a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture that enhances the overall flavor.
Large egg – adds moisture and binds the ingredients, making your cookies tender.
Vanilla extract – imparts a warm, sweet aroma that balances the peppermint flavor beautifully.
Peppermint extract – the star of these Festive Candy Cane Cookies, delivering that classic holiday taste!
All-purpose flour – forms the structure of the cookies, ensuring they hold their shape.
Baking powder – helps the cookies rise, giving them a light and airy texture.
Salt – enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the dough.

For the Decoration

Red gel food coloring – brings that cheerful holiday spirit to your cookie dough, making each treat pop!
Crushed peppermint candies – adds a crunchy texture and extra peppermint flavor.
Granulated sugar – for rolling the cookies before baking, adding a delightful sweetness.
White chocolate drizzle – transforms your cookies into a festive masterpiece with a rich, creamy finish.

How to Make Festive Candy Cane Cookies

Cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is creamy and smooth, which will take about 3–4 minutes. This step lays the foundation for a tender cookie!
Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing until fully combined. The mixture should be light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. The dough will be slightly soft and sticky.
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Leave one plain and tint the other with red gel food coloring, mixing until the color is evenly distributed. You’re creating a festive masterpiece!
Chill both doughs in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to make shaping easier. It’s a perfect time to sip some hot cocoa while you wait!
Roll portions of each dough into 4–5 inch ropes. Keep the ropes uniform for even baking and a beautiful look once twisted.
Press the red and white ropes together lightly, then twist them into a candy cane shape. This technique adds character and festivity to each cookie!
Curve the top of each twist, creating the classic candy cane hook. Your kitchen will start to feel like a holiday wonderland!
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. The cookies should be set but not browned; a slight softness is perfect for that melt-in-your-mouth quality!
Cool on a wire rack before adding crushed peppermint if desired. These finishing touches are the cherry on top of a festive favorite!

Optional: Drizzle with white chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Festive Candy Cane Cookies Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful treats for a personalized touch!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family. The texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still taste festive!
Vegan: Replace the egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce, use vegan butter, and opt for dairy-free white chocolate for a wonderful vegan version. These cookies will charm everyone at the holiday gathering!
Chocolate Delight: Swirl in cocoa powder to the base dough or add chocolate chips for a deliciously rich twist. The chocolatey flavor will beautifully complement the peppermint!
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. This will elevate your cookies and add a lovely texture with each bite!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne or cinnamon for a surprising but delightful heat. It creates a unique, cheeky profile that your adventurous guests will love.
Dipped & Drizzled: Instead of a drizzle, dip half the cookie in melted white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peppermints for an extra crunch and holiday flair! Each bite will feel like a festive celebration!
Different Colors: Use different colors of gel food coloring to create more vibrant candy cane patterns, like green or blue. It’s a fun way to customize your cookies and spark joy among little bakers!
Peppermint Cream Filling: Create a sandwich cookie by adding a peppermint-flavored cream between two cookies. This twist will make them truly irresistible and perfect for sharing!

What to Serve with Festive Candy Cane Cookies?

As you prepare for holiday gatherings, these delightful cookies can easily be complemented by an array of festive treats.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of creamy hot chocolate perfectly complements the peppermint flavor and adds a cozy touch.
Gingerbread Men: The spiced warmth of gingerbread balances the sweet mintiness, creating a delightful dessert duo.
Christmas Fruit Cake: This classic cake provides a wonderful contrast in textures, with fruits and nuts enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Peppermint Bark: Layered chocolate and peppermint bring an irresistible crunch, mimicking the cookies while offering a delightful twist.
Green Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A refreshing, crisp salad adds a vibrant contrast, lightening up the dessert spread with zesty notes.
Coffee or Peppermint Latte: Rich coffee drinks highlight the flavors in your cookies, making each bite all the more comforting.

Pairing these treats not only enhances the holiday spirit but creates a well-rounded dessert table that your guests will love!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Festive Candy Cane Cookies for Christmas are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during the busy holiday season! You can make the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance. Simply prepare the dough, divide it into two portions, and color one with red gel food coloring as directed. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just roll your dough into ropes, twist, and bake according to the recipe instructions. For the best quality, ensure the dough is well-wrapped to prevent drying out, and add crushed peppermint and white chocolate drizzle just before serving for the freshest taste!

How to Store and Freeze Festive Candy Cane Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: For longer storage, place cookies in the fridge for up to a week, but be sure they are in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake straight from the freezer when ready!

Reheating: If cookies lose a bit of their softness, warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. Enjoy your delightful Festive Candy Cane Cookies!

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making Festive Candy Cane Cookies, ensure your butter is truly softened to create a smooth and creamy mixture that incorporates air for fluffiness.
Avoid overworking your dough once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to tough cookies instead of tender ones.
Keep your ropes uniform in size when rolling to ensure even baking and a pleasing appearance.
Remember to check your cookies at the 8-minute mark to achieve that perfect set without browning, giving them the ideal melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Festive Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting peppermint extract?
When selecting peppermint extract, look for pure peppermint extract rather than imitation or artificial varieties, as this ensures a fresher, more vibrant flavor in your cookies. Check the ingredient list and aim for a brand that uses natural ingredients for the best results.

How should I store leftover Festive Candy Cane Cookies?
Store your baked Festive Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, making sure they’re sealed to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other odors.

Can I freeze the dough for Festive Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze the dough, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the desired portion from the freezer and bake straight from frozen; just add a minute or two to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough is too sticky to roll, it may be due to the butter being too soft or too much moisture in the mixture. I recommend chilling the dough for an additional 10-15 minutes—this will firm it up and make it easier to handle. If it remains sticky, gently sprinkle a bit of flour on your work surface while rolling.

Are these cookies safe for my pets?
While the ingredients in Festive Candy Cane Cookies are delicious for humans, they are not safe for pets, especially chocolate (if used) and excess sugar. Always ensure that any treats you bake stay out of reach of your furry friends to avoid any health issues.

What’s the best way to add the white chocolate drizzle?
To achieve a beautiful and even drizzle of white chocolate, melt your white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second increments, stirring in between to avoid burning. Once melted, use a fork or a piping bag to drizzle over the cooled cookies. Let it set before storing or serving for a lovely presentation.