Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and nothing quite captures that festive spirit like homemade Candy Cane Cookies. These delightful treats not only bring a burst of color to your holiday table but also fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. With a soft, buttery texture and a hint of almond and vanilla, these cookies are then finished with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes that adds a delightful crunch and a refreshing minty flavor. Get ready to spread some cheer with these charming little delights!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed candy canes
- Red food coloring
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your cookies.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, almost like a cloud of sweetness.
- Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, beating until everything is beautifully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until fully combined.
- Divide the dough in half, leaving one half its natural color while adding red food coloring to the other half. Mix thoroughly until the color is evenly distributed, transforming half of your dough into a vibrant red.
- Take a small piece of each colored dough and roll them into two thin ropes, about 6 inches long—think of them as candy cane building blocks!
- Twist the red and plain ropes together to form a charming candy cane shape and place them on ungreased baking sheets.
- Before baking, sprinkle the tops of the cookies with crushed candy canes, enhancing both their flavor and holiday spirit.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden brown, creating that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely—if you can resist the sweet temptation!
Notes or Tips
For an extra festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies! This adds a rich flavor and enhances the holiday aesthetic. Also, ensure your butter is fully softened for the best creaming results, which will create a light and airy cookie.
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugar, the key is to beat them together until light and fluffy, which incorporates air and gives the cookies that delightful texture. Be gentle when combining the dry ingredients, as overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Remember, the color mixing should be done thoroughly to ensure the vibrant hue is even throughout your dough.
FAQ
Can I use different extracts? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute almond extract with peppermint extract for an even stronger mint flavor.
How should I store the cookies? Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage!
Conclusion
These Candy Cane Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a cherished holiday tradition that brings joy and sweetness to the season. With their lovely appearance and delightful flavor, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. So, gather your loved ones, enjoy some laughter, and whip up a batch of these festive cookies that truly embody the spirit of the holidays!