There's a certain joy that comes with the first whiff of peppermint in the air, especially when the holiday season rolls around. As I unpack my baking supplies, I can't help but smile at the thought of making Classic Candy Cane Cookies. These treats are more than just eye-catching with their vibrant red and white swirls; they are a celebration of flavor and festivity, delivering that delightful crunch followed by a tender, chewy center that encapsulates the spirit of Christmas in every bite.

One snowy afternoon, as I gathered the ingredients, I remembered the laughter and smiles that filled my kitchen during previous baking sessions. This recipe invites you to recreate that warmth and joy, making it perfect for a fun family activity or a thoughtful gift for friends. With the simple blend of sugar, butter, and a hint of peppermint, these cookies are easy to whip up and sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, and let's dive into the enchanting world of holiday baking!

Why are Candy Cane Cookies a must-bake?

Festive Delight: These Candy Cane Cookies radiate holiday cheer with their colorful appearance and delightful peppermint aroma.

Easy to Make: Whipping up these cookies requires minimal effort, making it a fun baking activity for the whole family.

Personalized Touch: You can customize them with food coloring and toppings, making each batch uniquely yours.

Perfect for Gifting: Their charming look makes them an ideal treat for holiday gifting or cookie exchanges.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The balance of sweetness and mint offers a nostalgic flavor that everyone loves!

So gather your loved ones, grab some ingredients, and create a batch of these festive treats that are sure to become a cherished tradition!

Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients

• Perfect for holiday baking.

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter - Provides richness and moisture; make sure it's at room temperature for better creaming.
Cream Cheese - Adds tenderness and a rich flavor; substituting with butter changes texture slightly.
Granulated Sugar - Sweetens the dough and is key for aeration when creamed.
Large Egg Yolk - Enhances moisture and richness; omit for egg-free cookies, using an egg replacer instead.
Peppermint Extract - Delivers that fresh minty flavor essential for Candy Cane Cookies.
Salt - Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
All-purpose Flour - The main structure-building ingredient that gives cookies their shape.
Red Gel Food Coloring - Provides the signature red color for that iconic candy cane look; Americolor Super Red is recommended for vibrant results.

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies

Cream Butter and Cheese: Begin by beating the softened unsalted butter in a mixing bowl until it's creamy and fluffy. Then, add the cream cheese and continue mixing until well-combined. This should take about 1-2 minutes to achieve a smooth consistency.
Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Next, mix in the large egg yolk, peppermint extract, and salt. Stir well until everything is perfectly blended. Your dough will start to smell wonderfully minty!
Add Flour: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, stirring until just combined. Be cautious not to over-mix; the dough should be soft but not sticky.
Prepare Dough: Divide your dough in half. Color one half with red gel food coloring until you achieve your desired shade. Roll both halves into rectangles, making them roughly ¼ inch thick. Chill the dough briefly in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
Layer and Roll: Stack the red and white dough layers on top of each other. Gently roll them out together to meld the colors. Once they're evenly combined and pretty, refrigerate again until firm.
Cut and Shape: Now, slice the chilled dough into strips. Roll each strip into a log, then twist them together to form the iconic candy cane shapes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes or until the bottoms just begin to turn light golden. Cool completely on a wire rack before enjoying or gifting!

Optional: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top prior to baking for an extra festive touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Candy Cane Cookies

Dough Consistency: If the dough feels sticky, chill it for 10-15 minutes. This makes it easier to roll and shape your Candy Cane Cookies.
Baking Sheet Choice: Use a non-insulated, aluminum baking sheet to ensure even baking. Avoid dark-colored sheets that can lead to over-browning.
Check for Doneness: The cookies should puff up and lose their raw shine. Keep an eye on the bottoms; they're perfect when they're just lightly golden.
Coloring Tip: Use a high-quality gel food coloring to achieve vibrant red without altering the dough's consistency. Americolor Super Red is a great choice!
Customize Your Cookies: Don't hesitate to experiment! Add crushed peppermint candies on top or use different colors for unique holiday themes.

Storage Tips for Candy Cane Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your baked Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you live in a warm climate or want to keep them longer, the fridge is a good option. They can be kept in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks; just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to layer parchment paper between each cookie to prevent sticking.
Dough Freezing: You can also freeze the unbaked dough! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking to enjoy fresh Candy Cane Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing and chilling it in the fridge. Simply divide the dough, color half red, and roll out your rectangles as instructed. For even more convenience, the shaped cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. When you're ready to bake, simply preheat the oven, bake directly from the freezer, and enjoy freshly baked treats without the wait. With these make-ahead options, you'll have delicious, festive cookies at your fingertips whenever the craving strikes!

What to Serve with Candy Cane Cookies?

As you fill your home with the sweet aroma of freshly baked treats, consider these delightful pairings to create a perfect holiday spread.

Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolatey warmth of hot cocoa complements the peppermint flavor beautifully and enhances the festive spirit.
Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink pairs well with the cookies' sweetness, making each bite even more indulgent.
Winter Fruit Salad: A mix of pomegranate, oranges, and apples adds a refreshing contrast to the cookies while showcasing seasonal flavors.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop on the side, and let that melting creaminess mingle with the minty crunch of your cookies.
Peppermint Tea: A warm cup of peppermint tea heightens the minty notes in the cookies, creating a soothing and cozy experience.
White Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: These sweet and salty treats provide a textural contrast that balances the chewy candy cane cookies with a delightful crunch.
Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites drizzled with chocolate and sprinkled with crushed candy canes offer an elegant twist for holiday parties, enhancing the festive note.
Holiday Cheese Board: Include some light cheeses and nuts for an unexpected savory addition that will create a delightful contrast to the sweet treats.
Gingerbread Cookies: Pair with the candy cane cookies for a classic holiday trio. The spiced flavors will complement each other beautifully!
Milk: The classic combo! A glass of milk to dip those cookies in always satisfies the nostalgic spirit of childhood.

Candy Cane Cookies Variations

There's no limit to how you can make these Christmas favorites your own, so let your imagination run wild!

Dairy-Free: Replace butter and cream cheese with vegan alternatives to create a deliciously dairy-free version.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to gluten sensitivities while maintaining the festive spirit.
Chocolate Peppermint: Add cocoa powder to half the dough for a delightful chocolate-and-peppermint twist sure to please chocolate lovers.
Minty Green: Use green gel food coloring instead of red for a fun and festive take on traditional candy canes, perfect for any occasion!
Nutty Addition: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or almonds into the dough for added texture and a nutty flavor that elevates the cookies.
Extra Crunch: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top before baking for a delightful crunch and an extra burst of minty flavor.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice kick that complements the peppermint beautifully.
Peppermint Bark Fusion: Swirl in pieces of white or dark chocolate for an indulgent cookie that combines the classic methodology with a chocolatey surprise!

Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Candy Cane Cookies, ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for smooth creaming. Also, fresh cream cheese will contribute to the tenderness of the cookies. If you're using peppermint extract, opt for a high-quality brand to get that vibrant mint flavor.

How should I store my Candy Cane Cookies?
Store your baked Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their freshness and lovely peppermint flavor. If you're in a warmer climate, the fridge is also a good option, and they'll last for up to 2 weeks there. Just let them reach room temperature before serving to enjoy their full taste!

Can I freeze Candy Cane Cookies?
Yes, you can! For long-term storage, freeze your baked Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To prevent them from sticking together, layer parchment paper between each cookie. If you prefer, you can also freeze the unbaked dough. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. When you're ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for fresh-baked cookies whenever you want!

What if my dough is too soft?
Very! If your dough becomes too soft to handle, pop it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to roll and shape into those delightful candy cane forms. Remember, a well-chilled dough leads to better cookie shapes!

Are Candy Cane Cookies safe for pets?
No, it's best to keep Candy Cane Cookies away from pets. The ingredients, especially sugar and chocolate (if used in toppings), can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always consider making pet-friendly treats instead if you'd like to share the joy of baking with your furry friends!

Can I customize my Candy Cane Cookies for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you need an egg-free version, simply use an egg replacer for the large egg yolk. For those allergic to gluten, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Feel free to experiment with different food colorings or toppings to make the cookies visually appealing while meeting dietary needs.