Candy Cane Cookies: A Festive Treat for the Holidays
Candy cane cookies are a delightful and visually appealing treat that perfectly embodies the holiday spirit. Their distinctive twisted shape and vibrant red and white colors make them a festive addition to any cookie platter or holiday gathering. Beyond their aesthetic charm, these cookies boast a delicious flavor profile that combines the sweetness of sugar cookies with the refreshing coolness of peppermint. This article provides a detailed guide to creating perfect candy cane cookies, from ingredient selection to baking tips and creative variations.
Why Candy Cane Cookies are a Holiday Must-Bake
Candy cane cookies are more than just a delicious treat; they’re a tradition. Here’s why they deserve a spot on your holiday baking list:
* **Festive Appearance:** The iconic candy cane shape and red and white swirls instantly evoke feelings of holiday cheer.
* **Delicious Flavor:** The combination of buttery sugar cookie and refreshing peppermint is a crowd-pleaser.
* **Fun to Make:** Shaping the cookies is a fun activity for all ages, making it a great family baking project.
* **Perfect for Gifting:** Candy cane cookies make a thoughtful and homemade gift for friends, family, and neighbors.
* **Versatile:** The basic recipe can be adapted to create different flavors and decorations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delightful candy cane cookies, gather the following ingredients:
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 3 cups, plus more for dusting. Use good quality all-purpose flour. Ensure it is properly measured, spooning and leveling into the measuring cup. Avoid scooping directly from the container, which can lead to over-packing.
* **Unsalted Butter:** 1 cup (2 sticks), softened. The butter needs to be properly softened, not melted. Remove it from the refrigerator about an hour before baking. Softened butter creams more easily with the sugar, creating a lighter, more tender cookie.
* **Granulated Sugar:** 1 cup. Adds sweetness and helps to create a tender crumb.
* **Eggs:** 2 large. Acts as a binder and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon. Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
* **Peppermint Extract:** 1/2 teaspoon. Provides the signature peppermint flavor. Adjust the amount to your liking, but be careful not to add too much, as it can be overpowering.
* **Baking Powder:** 1 teaspoon. Leavening agent that helps the cookies rise.
* **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon. Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
* **Red Food Coloring:** Gel food coloring is recommended for a more vibrant color. Liquid food coloring can also be used, but you may need to add more to achieve the desired shade. Be mindful that liquid food coloring can slightly alter the consistency of the dough.
* **Optional:** Crushed candy canes for decorating.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Mixing Bowls:** For mixing the wet and dry ingredients.
* **Electric Mixer:** Stand mixer or hand mixer for creaming the butter and sugar.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat:** To line the baking sheets and prevent sticking.
* **Baking Sheets:** For baking the cookies.
* **Plastic Wrap:** For chilling the dough.
* **Rolling Pin:** For rolling out the dough (optional, depending on desired thickness).
* **Knife or Pizza Cutter:** For cutting the dough into strips.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get to the fun part: making the candy cane cookies! Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results:
**Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar**
* In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process typically takes 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer. The mixture should be pale and airy.
**Step 2: Add Eggs and Extracts**
* Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
* Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Ensure the extracts are evenly distributed.
**Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients**
* In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, resulting in a more consistent rise.
**Step 4: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients**
* Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a chewier texture.
**Step 5: Divide and Color the Dough**
* Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain. Add red food coloring to the other half and mix until evenly colored. Use gel food coloring for the best results and a vibrant color. If using liquid food coloring, add it gradually until you achieve the desired shade.
**Step 6: Chill the Dough**
* Wrap each half of the dough in plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Chilling the dough for at least 1 hour (or preferably longer, up to overnight) is crucial. Chilling allows the gluten to relax, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. It also makes the dough easier to handle and shape.
**Step 7: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets**
* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Parchment paper or silicone baking mats prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheets and make cleanup easier.
**Step 8: Shape the Cookies**
* On a lightly floured surface, roll out each color of dough into a rope about 1/4 inch thick. Alternatively, you can simply roll the dough between your hands to create the ropes.
* Cut each rope into 3-4 inch long pieces.
* Twist a red piece and a white piece of dough together to form a candy cane shape. Gently pinch the ends together to secure the twist. Curve one end of the twisted dough to create the candy cane hook.
**Step 9: Bake the Cookies**
* Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie. This allows for even baking and prevents the cookies from sticking together.
* Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on the cookies while they are baking, as they can burn easily.
**Step 10: Cool and Decorate (Optional)**
* Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cookies from breaking while they are still warm and soft.
* If desired, decorate the cookies with crushed candy canes or a simple glaze.
Tips for Perfect Candy Cane Cookies
* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** Overmixing develops the gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
* **Chill the Dough:** Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing spreading and making the dough easier to handle.
* **Use Gel Food Coloring:** Gel food coloring provides a more vibrant color than liquid food coloring.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaked cookies will be dry and brittle. Bake until the edges are lightly golden brown.
* **Cool Completely Before Decorating:** This prevents the icing or glaze from melting.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Try adding other extracts, such as almond or lemon, for a different flavor profile.
Creative Variations
* **Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies:** Add cocoa powder to half of the dough for a chocolate twist.
* **Peppermint Bark Candy Cane Cookies:** Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
* **Gluten-Free Candy Cane Cookies:** Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
* **Vegan Candy Cane Cookies:** Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg in place of the eggs.
* **Candy Cane Cookie Pops:** Insert a lollipop stick into the bottom of the cookie before baking for a fun and festive treat.
Troubleshooting
* **Cookies Spreading Too Much:** The dough wasn’t chilled long enough, or the oven temperature is too low. Make sure to chill the dough for at least an hour and check your oven temperature.
* **Cookies are Too Dry:** The dough was overmixed, or the cookies were overbaked. Be careful not to overmix the dough and bake until the edges are just lightly golden brown.
* **Cookies are Too Tough:** The dough was overmixed. Mix until just combined.
* **Color Bleeding:** Make sure the colors have fully mixed into the dough before twisting together. Also ensure your gel food coloring is of good quality.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
Candy cane cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for several days. Here are some tips for serving and storing:
* **Serving:** Serve the cookies on a festive platter or in a decorative tin. They make a great addition to any holiday dessert table.
* **Storage:** Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Candy Cane Cookie Glaze Recipe
This simple glaze adds a touch of sweetness and shine to your candy cane cookies. It’s easy to make and adds a professional finish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons milk
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Dip the cooled cookies in the glaze or drizzle the glaze over the cookies.
4. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes, if desired.
5. Let the glaze set completely before serving.
Crushed Candy Cane Decoration
**Ingredients:**
* 4-5 Candy Canes, unwrapped.
**Equipment:**
* Food processor or Ziploc bag and rolling pin
**Instructions:**
1. Add unwrapped Candy Canes to a food processor and pulse until finely crushed, or add candy canes to a Ziploc bag, seal, and crush with a rolling pin until finely crushed.
2. Sprinkle crushed candy canes immediately over the glaze before the glaze sets.
## Enjoy Your Homemade Candy Cane Cookies!
Making candy cane cookies is a fun and rewarding experience. These festive treats are sure to bring joy to your holiday season. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can create beautiful and delicious cookies that will be the star of any holiday gathering. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake some holiday magic!
These cookies are more than just a delicious treat; they’re a symbol of the season. Sharing them with loved ones is a way to spread holiday cheer and create lasting memories. Whether you’re baking them with family, gifting them to friends, or simply enjoying them yourself, candy cane cookies are a perfect way to celebrate the holidays. Happy baking!