Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies: A Festive Holiday Treat You’ll Love

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The holiday season is the perfect time for making memories with family, sharing delicious treats, and indulging in festive traditions. And if you’re looking to add a fresh twist to your holiday baking, Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies are a must-try! These cookies combine a classic, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a refreshing burst of peppermint, making them a showstopper at any holiday gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday cookie exchange, preparing for a cozy family evening, or simply craving something sweet with a minty flair, these cookies are a perfect fit. With their eye-catching candy-cane shape and festive red-and-white design, they’re not only delicious but also visually stunning. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making these Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies—plus some tips and tricks to make them even more irresistible.

Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies

Before you jump into the recipe, let’s talk about what makes these cookies such a standout treat. Here are some reasons why you’ll absolutely love making (and eating) these Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies: Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our https://miarecipes.com/baked-spinach-mushroom-quesadillas-3

1. Refreshing Peppermint Flavor

The star ingredient in these cookies is the peppermint extract, which gives them that refreshing, cool flavor. This flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the dough, creating a perfect balance. Whether you enjoy peppermint or are just looking for something to remind you of the holiday season, these cookies hit all the right notes.

2. Whimsical Candy Cane Shape

The shape of these cookies is what makes them extra special. The red-and-white twist instantly reminds us of the iconic candy cane, and these cookies make a fun, festive treat for your family and friends. Plus, they’re easy to shape, so even if you’re not an expert baker, you’ll find it simple to create that classic candy-cane form.

3. Soft and Tender Texture

What’s not to love about a soft, chewy cookie that practically melts in your mouth? The combination of butter, powdered sugar, and proper mixing ensures that the cookies have a soft and tender texture. They’re not too crisp, but perfectly firm and soft at the same time.

4. Ideal for Holiday Gatherings

Whether you’re planning a cookie exchange or just need a quick treat for your holiday party, Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make in large batches, so you can share them with friends, family, or colleagues. And the festive design makes them a great gift for anyone on your list!

5. Fun to Make with Loved Ones

Baking these cookies with your family can be a fun and heartwarming experience. Imagine rolling the dough into ropes, twisting them together, and watching as the red and white blend perfectly. It’s a great way to get everyone involved in the holiday festivities.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. Here’s a handy list for your convenience:

Ingredient	Amount
Unsalted butter (softened)	1 cup
Powdered sugar	1 cup
Large egg	1
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Peppermint extract	½ tsp
All-purpose flour	2 ½ cups
Salt	¼ tsp
Red food coloring	A couple of drops
Granulated sugar (optional)	For sprinkling (optional)

Pro Tip:

For best results, make sure your butter is at room temperature before you start. This will make it easier to cream with the powdered sugar and help achieve a light and fluffy dough.

How to Make Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies: Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into the detailed instructions. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to baking the perfect Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies.

Step 1 – Cream Butter and Sugar

Start by beating your softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air into the dough, ensuring your cookies are soft and tender.

Step 2 – Add Wet Ingredients

Next, add in your egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Beat until everything is well combined. The peppermint extract is what gives these cookies that signature minty flavor, so make sure you don’t skip this ingredient!

Step 3 – Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture. Mix until the dough just starts to come together. Be careful not to over-mix, as this could make your cookies tough. You want the dough to be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 4 – Divide and Color the Dough

Now it’s time to get festive! Divide the dough into two equal portions. Keep one portion plain, and add a few drops of red food coloring to the other. Knead the red dough until the color is evenly distributed throughout. You can use gel food coloring for a more vibrant color, but liquid food coloring will also work.

Step 5 – Chill the Dough

Wrap both portions of dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will firm it up, making it easier to handle and shape. Don’t skip this step—your cookies will spread too much if the dough is too soft.

Step 6 – Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Once the dough has chilled, take a tablespoon of each color of dough (plain and red). Roll each into 4-5 inch long ropes. Then, gently twist the ropes together to form a candy-cane shape. You can curve the top of the twisted dough to create that signature hook shape of a candy cane.

Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7 – Bake and Enjoy

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them, as you don’t want them to become too crispy. These cookies should stay soft and tender.

If you like, sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top while they are still warm for a festive sparkle. This is optional but adds a nice touch to the finished cookies.

Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies

Want to make sure your cookies turn out perfect every time? Here are a few tips:

• Chill the Dough: Make sure the dough is properly chilled. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much during baking.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: When adding the dry ingredients, mix just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can make the cookies tough.
• Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring provides a richer, more vibrant color than liquid food coloring. If you prefer, you can also make the dough without food coloring for a classic look.
• Watch the Oven: Every oven is different, so keep a close eye on your cookies while baking. You want them soft in the center, with just a light golden edge.

Nutritional Information for Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional content of these cookies:

• Servings: 24 cookies (approx.)
• Calories: 150 per cookie (approx.)
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 45mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 21g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 1g

These numbers are estimates based on the ingredients and portions used. Depending on the exact sizes of your cookies, the calorie count may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator for a few hours and proceed with shaping and baking.

Can I substitute margarine for butter?

While margarine can be used, it’s not the best substitute if you want the cookies to be as tender and flavorful as possible. Unsalted butter provides the best texture and taste, so we recommend sticking with it for the best results.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container and separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make these cookies gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum, which helps provide structure and chewiness in gluten-free baked goods.

Can I make a batch without the food coloring?

Yes, the food coloring is optional. If you prefer, you can skip the red food coloring and just make plain peppermint-flavored cookies. They will still be just as delicious!

Conclusion: A Must-Make Holiday Cookie

Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday baking lineup. They’re soft, minty, and packed with festive charm. Whether you’re baking with family or preparing a gift for someone special, these cookies are sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create these delightful holiday treats.

Don’t forget to share your baking experience with us! Drop a comment below or tag us on social media with your peppermint cookie creations. Happy baking and happy holidays!

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