Sugar Candy Cane Christmas Cookies

What kind of recipe is it?

Sugar Candy Cane Christmas Cookies are festive, sweet treats perfect for the holiday season.

These delightful cookies are characterized by their soft, buttery texture and vibrant red-and-green stripes reminiscent of traditional candy canes.

Ideal for holiday gatherings, they not only bring a merry touch to your dessert table but also make for fun and interactive baking with family and friends.

Recommended for both novice and experienced bakers, these cookies are a whimsical way to celebrate Christmas and spread cheer.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	2 ¾ cups (330 grams)
Granulated sugar	1 cup (200 grams)
Unsalted butter	1 cup (225 grams), softened
Powdered sugar	½ cup (60 grams)
Large egg	1
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Almond extract	½ teaspoon
Baking powder	1 teaspoon
Salt	½ teaspoon
Red food coloring	½ teaspoon
Green food coloring	½ teaspoon
Crushed candy canes	½ cup (about 60 grams)
Additional granulated sugar	For rolling cookies

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results when baking these festive cookies!

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Cooking Steps

Preheat the oven to 175 °C (350 °F). Position the oven rack in the center to allow even baking; make sure it isn’t on convection mode.
Line two baking sheets (approximately 30 x 40 cm or 12 x 16 inches) with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 225 grams (1 cup) of softened unsalted butter and 200 grams (1 cup) of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 3–5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Beat in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract until fully incorporated.
In another bowl, whisk together 330 grams (2 ¾ cups) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix.
Divide the dough into two equal portions. To one portion, add ½ teaspoon of red food coloring and mix until the color is uniform. To the second portion, add ½ teaspoon of green food coloring and mix until combined.
Using a tablespoon, scoop each portion of dough and roll it into small balls; then roll them in additional granulated sugar to coat lightly.
For each cookie, take a red and a green dough ball, and gently roll each into a long strip about 15 cm (6 inches) long. Twist the strips together to form a candy cane shape and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
Sprinkle 60 grams (½ cup) of crushed candy canes evenly over the cookies before baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden, indicating a slightly crisp exterior while remaining soft inside.
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve the cookies once cooled; they’ll maintain fresher flavors and textures when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
If desired, add a drizzle of melted chocolate or additional crushed candy canes before serving for an extra festive touch.

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Variations

Chocolate-Dipped Candy Canes: Add 100 grams (3.5 oz) of cocoa powder to one portion of the dough for a chocolate twist, and dip finished cookies in melted chocolate before serving.
Vegan Candy Cane Cookies: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water), use coconut oil instead of butter, and guarantee all other ingredients are dairy-free.
Gluten-Free Candy Canes: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend (330 grams or 2 ¾ cups) and make certain baking powder is gluten-free to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Spiced Cranberry Candy Canes: Mix in 100 grams (1 cup) of dried cranberries and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon into the dough for a seasonal flavor enhancement.

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Tips on plating and presentation

While creating delightful Sugar Candy Cane Christmas Cookies, thoughtful plating and presentation can elevate your holiday treats to an impressive display.

I love using festive platters or tiered stands that showcase the cookies beautifully.

Consider adding some holiday-themed decorations like pinecones or small ornaments for extra flair.

You can also sprinkle powdered sugar for a snow-like effect—it’s all about creating that magical holiday atmosphere!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

To complement my Sugar Candy Cane Christmas Cookies, I love pairing them with a warm cup of peppermint hot chocolate or rich eggnog.

They also go wonderfully with holiday desserts like gingerbread or fruitcake, creating a festive spread.

For a savory touch, consider serving alongside a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar and creamy brie, adding delightful contrast to my sweet treats.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

When I’m enjoying my Sugar Candy Cane Christmas Cookies, I often reach for a few classic drink pairings that enhance the festive flavors.

A warm cup of spiced apple cider warms the soul, while a peppermint hot chocolate complements the cookies’ sweetness beautifully.

If I’m in the mood for something lighter, a cranberry spritzer adds a revitalizing touch to my holiday snack.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour for This Recipe?

Absolutely, you can use gluten-free flour! I’ve done it before, and the results were delicious. Just make certain to check the flour’s blend to guarantee it works well in cookies. Enjoy your baking!

How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?

These cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. I love making a batch ahead of time and enjoying them throughout the holiday season!

Are There Any Vegan Substitutions Available?

I often use coconut oil instead of butter, and a flaxseed mixture as an egg replacer. Maple syrup adds sweetness, while almond milk keeps the dough moist. These tweaks work perfectly for my vegan friends!

Can These Cookies Be Frozen for Later?

Yes, I’ve frozen similar cookies before! Just make certain they’re fully cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or airtight containers. When you’re ready, they thaw beautifully and taste almost as fresh as the day you baked them!

How Do I Store Leftover Cookies Properly?

I store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If they’re frosted, I separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for several days, just don’t forget to seal them well!