White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies are a festive and delicious treat perfect for the holiday season. These cookies are soft, buttery, and studded with creamy white chocolate chips and crunchy peppermint candy cane pieces. With their vibrant holiday look and delightful flavor, they’re ideal for cookie exchanges, dessert platters, or simply indulging your seasonal sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A festive holiday cookie with a balance of creamy white chocolate and refreshing peppermint.
• Easy to make with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for gifting or holiday cookie swaps.
• Kid-friendly and visually stunning with red and white candy cane pieces.
• Soft, chewy, and full of holiday cheer!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• White chocolate chips
• Candy canes (crushed)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
   Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in Mix-Ins:
   Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes, reserving a few for topping.
7. Scoop and Shape:
   Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake:
   Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked. Do not overbake to ensure soft cookies.
9. Cool and Garnish:
   Remove from the oven and immediately press a few extra white chocolate chips and candy cane pieces onto the tops of the cookies for a festive look. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Dark Chocolate Twist: Replace white chocolate chips with semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Mintier Flavor: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for extra minty goodness.
• Drizzled Cookies: Drizzle the cooled cookies with melted white chocolate for an elegant touch.
• Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or almonds for added crunch.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Storage and Freezing

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

1. How do I crush candy canes without making a mess?

Place the candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or mallet.

2. Can I use peppermint candies instead of candy canes?

Yes, peppermint candies work just as well and provide the same festive flavor.

3. How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?

Do not overbake, and store the cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before scooping.

5. What’s the best way to melt white chocolate for drizzling?

Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.

6. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

7. Can I make larger cookies?

Yes, use a larger scoop and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are set.

8. What type of white chocolate is best?

High-quality white chocolate chips or baking bars melt better and taste creamier.

9. Can I add food coloring to the dough?

Yes, add a few drops of red or green food coloring to the dough for extra holiday flair.

10. What pairs well with these cookies?

Serve with hot cocoa, coffee, or a cold glass of milk for a perfect holiday treat.

Conclusion

White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies are a festive and flavorful holiday dessert that’s sure to delight family and friends. With their soft texture, creamy white chocolate, and crunchy peppermint topping, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for gifting or enjoying at home, they’ll quickly become a seasonal favorite!

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