Description
These Candy Cane Cookies are a festive holiday treat, featuring buttery, tender cookie dough twisted into candy cane shapes with a hint of peppermint. Perfect for holiday cookie platters or as a fun baking activity with kids!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Red food coloring
- For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon crushed candy canes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, beating until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Divide and Color the Dough:
- Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain.
- Add a few drops of red food coloring to the other half and mix until the color is evenly distributed. Wrap both dough portions in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Shape the Candy Canes:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Take a small piece of plain dough and a similar-sized piece of red dough. Roll each into a rope about 4-5 inches long.
- Twist the two ropes together and gently curve the top to form a candy cane shape. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Mix the granulated sugar with crushed candy canes. While the cookies are still warm, sprinkle the mixture over the tops for extra sparkle and flavor.
Notes
- Handle the dough gently to prevent it from breaking while twisting. If it becomes too soft, return it to the fridge to firm up.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Add a bit more peppermint extract for a stronger flavor, or leave it out if you prefer a milder taste.