Candy Cane Cookies

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Candy Cane Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat that combine festive fun with buttery vanilla-almond flavor in every bite. With their classic red and white twist, these cookies are not only eye-catching but also soft, slightly crisp on the edges, and irresistibly delicious. They’re the perfect addition to any Christmas cookie platter or holiday dessert table.

The beauty of Candy Cane Cookies is how they bring nostalgia to life. Whether you’re baking them with kids or making them as edible gifts, their peppermint-inspired look and simple dough make the process both creative and comforting. They’re sweet without being overpowering and have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that cookie lovers will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

These cookies are charming, festive, and versatile. You can adjust the colors, add peppermint extract for a traditional twist, or keep them classic with a hint of almond. They also freeze well, making them a great make-ahead option during busy holiday seasons.

Can I Use a Different Extract Instead of Almond?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of almond extract, swap it for peppermint extract to lean into the candy cane theme, or use vanilla extract for a more neutral flavor. Just ensure you don’t overpower the dough with too much extract, as a little goes a long way.

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Ingredients for the Candy Cane Cookies

These cookies are made from a basic sugar cookie dough, split and tinted to create the iconic candy cane swirl. Here’s what makes each ingredient essential:

• Unsalted Butter: It gives the cookies richness and that classic buttery taste.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create a light texture.
• Egg: Adds moisture and binds the ingredients together.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the almond.
• Almond Extract: Adds that signature, nostalgic candy cane flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and helps hold the cookie shape.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and boosts the flavors.
• Red Gel Food Coloring: Creates the bold red swirl without watering down the dough.

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How To Make the Candy Cane Cookies

Making these cookies is as fun as it is rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Make the Dough

Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract and beat until well combined. Slowly mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Divide and Tint the Dough

Split the dough into two equal parts. Leave one portion plain and tint the other with red gel food coloring. Mix until the color is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Wrap both portions of dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to shape.

Step 4: Shape the Candy Canes

Roll a small piece of red dough and a small piece of white dough into ropes about 4 inches long. Twist them together and form into a candy cane shape. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until set but not browned. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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How to Serve and Store Candy Cane Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies make a cheerful addition to any cookie tray and are perfect for gifting in holiday tins or mason jars. This recipe makes about 24 cookies, perfect for sharing at family gatherings, holiday parties, or cookie swaps.

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; just thaw at room temperature before serving. If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

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What to Serve With Candy Cane Cookies?

Pair these festive cookies with cozy winter favorites for the ultimate treat experience:

Hot Cocoa with Whipped Cream

The rich warmth of hot cocoa complements the buttery cookie beautifully.

Peppermint Mocha

Lean into the peppermint theme with a minty mocha pairing.

Creamy Eggnog

A traditional holiday drink that adds creamy spice to every bite.

White Chocolate Bark

For a full dessert spread, serve alongside crunchy white chocolate bark.

Holiday Cheesecake Bars

Contrast the soft cookies with rich, tangy cheesecake squares.

Fruit Punch or Holiday Mocktails

Adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookies.

Roasted Nuts or Spiced Pecans

Offer some savory crunch to balance out the cookie platter.

Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Double up on soft and buttery with these melt-in-your-mouth favorites: Whipped Shortbread Cookies Recipe

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Candy Cane Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other holiday and creative cookie ideas:

• Christmas Cookie Pinwheels with vibrant swirls and festive flavor.
• Banana Bread Cookies for a fruity and soft alternative.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups if you’re into tangy-sweet perfection.
• Magic Lemon Cobbler for a warm spoon dessert to serve with your cookies.
• Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie to mix up your dessert board.

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

Let me know in the comments how your Candy Cane Cookies turned out. Did you go full peppermint or stick with almond? Maybe added a dusting of sugar on top?

I love hearing how others personalize their holiday baking. Got questions? Ask away—we’re all in this baking season together!

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