Candy Cane Cookies

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Candy Cane Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat that brings festive charm and nostalgic flavor to your cookie tray. With their signature red and white swirl, delicate peppermint aroma, and buttery vanilla base, these cookies are as eye-catching as they are delicious. Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange or looking for something fun to bake with the kids, these cookies are sure to impress.

Their shape, reminiscent of a real candy cane, makes them perfect for gift baskets or a cozy evening snack by the fireplace. You get a satisfying crunch on the outside and a soft bite inside that melts away, leaving a hint of minty sweetness. They’re not just cookies, they’re holiday joy in edible form.

Why You’ll Love This Candy Cane Cookie Recipe

These cookies are more than just pretty. They come together easily with simple pantry ingredients, and the dough is pliable and easy to work with. The flavor is perfectly balanced—buttery, minty, and just sweet enough. Plus, you can make them ahead and freeze the dough for busy holiday weeks. They hold their shape beautifully when baked and make a show-stopping addition to your dessert spread.

What Kind of Peppermint Extract Should I Use?

Peppermint extract is what gives these cookies their signature candy cane taste. Choose a pure peppermint extract rather than artificial for the best flavor. A little goes a long way, so don’t be tempted to overdo it. If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can also use vanilla or almond extract as a twist.

Ingredients for the Candy Cane Cookies

The magic behind these cookies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in flavor or texture.

• Unsalted butter: It gives the cookies a rich, buttery flavor and soft bite.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps it cream perfectly with the butter.
• Egg: Binds the dough together and adds moisture.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complements the peppermint flavor.
• Peppermint extract: Infuses the dough with that signature candy cane essence.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and the classic cookie crumb.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• Red food coloring: Gives half the dough that classic candy cane swirl look.

How To Make the Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer.

Step 2: Add Egg and Extracts

Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Beat until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix just until the dough forms and is no longer sticky.

Step 4: Divide and Color

Split the dough in half. Add red food coloring to one half and knead until the color is even.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap both dough portions separately and chill for about 30 minutes. This makes them easier to roll and shape.

Step 6: Shape the Candy Canes

Take a small piece of red dough and a small piece of white dough, roll each into a rope about 5 inches long, then twist them together and curve the top like a candy cane.

Step 7: Bake

Place the shaped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until just set. Let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

How to Store and Serve Candy Cane Cookies

These cookies are perfect for holiday gifting, cookie swaps, or an after-dinner treat. This recipe makes about 24 cookies, depending on size. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They thaw quickly and maintain their festive charm.

To keep them looking their best, layer parchment between cookies when stacking. You can also freeze the shaped raw dough and bake straight from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the bake time.

What to Serve With Candy Cane Cookies?

Hot Chocolate

The creamy richness of hot chocolate pairs perfectly with the crisp mint of the cookies.

Eggnog

Whether store-bought or homemade, eggnog’s spiced sweetness makes a delicious match.

Vanilla Ice Cream

For a wintery dessert, serve the cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream.

Espresso or Latte

The cookies’ sweetness balances beautifully with strong coffee or espresso drinks.

White Chocolate Dipping Sauce

Make it a little fancier by dipping half of each cookie in melted white chocolate.

Sparkling Cranberry Punch

Add festive fizz to your cookie moment with a tangy cranberry punch.

Marshmallow Dip

Serve these cookies with a light marshmallow dip for extra holiday fun.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved these Candy Cane Cookies, you’ll definitely want to check out more unique cookie creations on Luna Meals:

• Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies for chewy, salty-sweet goodness.
• Brownie Mix Cookies that turn a box into a masterpiece.
• Dr. Pepper Brownies if you like your cookies with a fizzy twist.
• Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches when you want dessert over the top.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with classic peppermint or try a different flavor twist?

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and creative desserts on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for holiday baking inspiration!

Conclusion

Candy Cane Cookies are the kind of treat that instantly says “holiday.” Their nostalgic shape, bright colors, and cool minty flavor make them stand out on any dessert table. Whether you’re baking with kids or adding flair to your cookie tray, these cookies check every box for festive flavor, fun, and ease.

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