Peppermint Candy Cane Christmas Cookies

What kind of recipe is it?

Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies are festive, sweet treats that embody the spirit of the holiday season.

These delicious cookies combine buttery, melt-in-your-mouth textures with an invigorating peppermint flavor, making them a delightful addition to any festive gathering.

Their vibrant red and white swirl design adds a cheerful aesthetic, perfect for holiday cookie trays.

Ideal for families, cookie exchanges, or cozy gatherings, these cookies are easy to bake and are sure to bring joy to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

This list includes all the essential ingredients needed to create your Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies, ensuring a delightful blend of flavors and an attractive festive appearance.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 175 °C (350 °F) and adjust the oven rack to the middle position. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 227 g (1 cup) of unsalted butter and 200 g (1 cup) of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3–5 minutes until light and fluffy.

3. Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined.

4. In a separate bowl, sift together 340 g (2 ¾ cups) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until combined.

Don’t overmix.

5. Divide the dough in half. Add 1 tablespoon of red food coloring to one half of the dough. Mix until the color is evenly distributed.

6. Cover both halves of the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the dough to firm up.

7. Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. For each cookie, take a small amount (about 1 tablespoon) of each colored dough, roll into a rope of approximately 15 cm (6 inches) long, and twist them together. Shape the twisted dough into a candy cane form and place it on the prepared baking sheets.

8. Sprinkle 50 g (½ cup) of crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top of the cookies before baking.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes or until the cookies are set and the edges are lightly golden, checking towards the end of the baking time.

10. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar if desired for a festive finish.

12. Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week. Enjoy the minty aroma and festive appearance!

Variations

• Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Incorporate 50 g (½ cup) of unsweetened cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Gluten-Free Candy Canes: Replace all-purpose flour with 340 g (2 ¾ cups) of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Candy Cane Cookies: Substitute the egg with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water and use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Coconut Candy Cane Twist: Add 50 g (⅓ cup) of shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flavor and texture contrast.

Tips on plating and presentation

When it comes to plating and presenting your peppermint candy cane cookies, creativity can elevate the festive spirit of your dessert.

I like to arrange the cookies on a decorative platter, dusted with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. Adding sprigs of fresh mint or red and white ribbons gives a pop of color.

Don’t forget to include a festive note card for an extra personal touch!

What other dishes can I pair it with?

Elevating the festive atmosphere doesn’t stop at presentation. I love pairing my Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies with warm, gooey brownies for a delightful contrast.

They also complement classic holiday dishes like a creamy mashed potato or rich green bean casserole.

For a lighter touch, you can’t go wrong with a fresh fruit salad, adding a rejuvenating balance to the sweet treats.

What drinks can I pair it with?

What could be more delightful than sipping on the perfect drink alongside your Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies?

I love pairing these festive treats with hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. If you prefer something chilled, try peppermint-infused iced coffee.

And for a fun twist, a classic eggnog complements the minty sweetness beautifully. Each drink elevates my cookie experience to another level!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Peppermint Candy Cane Christmas Cookies?

I freeze my cookies all the time. Just let them cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or a container, and pop them in the freezer. They’ll taste fresh when you thaw them!

How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?

These cookies stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. I always recommend storing them in an airtight container to keep that delicious flavor and texture intact for as long as possible. Enjoy!

Are There Gluten-Free Options for This Recipe?

Yes, I’ve made gluten-free versions of this recipe using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. It’s surprisingly delightful, and everyone enjoyed them just as much. I guarantee you won’t miss the gluten!

Can I Use Other Extracts Besides Peppermint?

I’ve used vanilla and almond extracts in my holiday baking. They add unique flavors and can create a delightful twist. Just remember to adjust quantities to keep the overall balance in your recipe.

How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?

I usually store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, I’ll freeze them. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!