Name: Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; Red food coloring (or red and green food coloring); ⅓ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 29 reviews

If you’re searching for a festive treat that perfectly captures the spirit of the holidays, look no further than this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe. These charming cookies combine the classic peppermint flavor with a playful swirl of red and white dough shaped just like candy canes. They’re crisp, sweet, and delightfully aromatic with hints of vanilla and almond. Every bite feels like a celebration, making these cookies an irresistible holiday tradition you’ll want to share with friends and family year after year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various baking ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. From the top left, there is a small white cup filled with a dark liquid, next to an empty small round bowl. Below these, there is a small white bowl with crushed red and white candy pieces, followed by a bottle of red gel food coloring with a pointed tip. In the middle, a clear measuring cup holds a white creamy substance, next to a rectangular block of butter wrapped in paper. To the right of the butter, a large white bowl is full of flour. Below, a white bowl contains powdered sugar, next to a single white egg and a small glass bowl with white granulated sugar. Two small red and white candy canes lie on the bottom right side. A piece of dark floral cloth is folded in the upper right corner. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe comes from its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—from the creamy butter giving richness and tenderness, to the peppermint candy adding a refreshing crunch and festive touch of red color.

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter (softened): Provides a smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor, essential for tender cookies.
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar: Adds sweetness while contributing to a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder, creating structure and helping the dough come together beautifully.
1 teaspoon almond extract: Offers a subtle nutty aroma that elevates the flavor complexity.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, balancing the minty brightness perfectly.
2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour: The base for your cookies, providing structure and body.
½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies lift just enough to avoid being too dense.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Red food coloring (or red and green): Brings the signature candy cane colors to life and makes the cookies visually stunning.
⅓ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies: Adds festive crunch and peppermint flavor, doubling the holiday joy.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Combines with crushed peppermint for a crunchy topping with a bit of sparkle.

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

Begin by mixing the softened butter with powdered sugar using a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed. This process creates a fluffy, creamy base that will lend your cookies a tender crumb. Once smooth, add the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract, blending until everything is perfectly combined and fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution of leavening and seasoning, which is crucial for consistent texture and flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet

With the mixer running on low speed, gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mixing just until combined helps avoid overworking the dough, which can make cookies tough.

Step 4: Divide and Color the Dough

Split the dough into two halves—keep one half white, and mix red food coloring into the other. You can also get creative by dividing the dough into quarters, coloring one quarter red and another green, leaving half plain white, to make a colorful variety of candy cane cookies.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Shape each portion into a disk, wrap tightly with plastic wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours. This rest period firms up the dough, making it easier to roll and shape while enhancing the flavors.

Step 6: Prepare the Peppermint Sugar Topping

While the dough chills, combine crushed candy canes or peppermint candies with granulated sugar in a small bowl. This topping adds a sweet crunch and extra peppermint punch, sealing in the festive feel.

Step 7: Shape the Candy Cane Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, scoop out equal teaspoons of white and colored dough, rolling each into a 5-inch rope. Lay the ropes side by side and gently twist them together, then curve the top to form classic candy cane shapes. This step is so fun, and you’ll love watching these shapes take form under your hands.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the shaped cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they just begin to turn golden on the bottom. The short baking time keeps them crisp yet tender, allowing that peppermint flavor to shine through.

Step 9: Add Peppermint Sugar Topping and Cool

Right after removing the cookies from the oven, sprinkle the peppermint-sugar mixture over the warm cookies so it sticks nicely. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. The anticipation here is part of the joy!

How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

The image shows a white plate holding five candy cane-shaped cookies, each twisted in red and white dough stripes. The cookies are sprinkled lightly with crushed white sugar bits, adding a frosted texture on top. In the background, a white plate with green and red twisted cookies sits on a white marbled surface. A red gift box with a festive snowman and white polka dots is placed near the plates, decorated with red and green curled ribbons. The setting gives a festive and cheerful feeling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These cookies are stunning on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white icing can add a little extra holiday sparkle. If you’re feeling creative, a few whole mini candy canes alongside your cookies create a festive platter perfect for parties.

Side Dishes

Pair your Candy Cane Cookies Recipe with a warm cup of hot cocoa or a classic peppermint mocha for a cozy treat. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also complement the crisp peppermint flavors beautifully, making your dessert experience even more indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the candy cane cookies in a wreath shape on a festive serving plate for a show-stopping holiday centerpiece. You can also package them in clear cellophane bags tied with a red ribbon for charming homemade gifts that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep your baked Candy Cane Cookies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Separating layers with parchment paper helps prevent sticking and preserves their lovely shape and texture.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, the cookie dough freezes beautifully. Wrap in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before continuing with the rolling and shaping steps.

Reheating

To enjoy leftover cookies warm, pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for 3 to 5 minutes. This gently revives their crispness without drying them out, rekindling that fresh-baked warmth every time.

FAQs

Can I use green food coloring instead of red in the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Using green food coloring alongside or instead of red adds vibrant seasonal flair. Many people love a combination of red, green, and white for an even more festive cookie display.

Do I have to use almond extract in this recipe?

While almond extract adds a lovely depth, you can omit it or substitute with an extra 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract if almond flavor is not your favorite or if you have allergies.

What is the best way to crush candy canes for the topping?

Place the candy canes in a ziplock bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy saucepan. This creates small, uneven pieces that add delightful texture and visual appeal.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can enjoy these candy cane cookies without gluten. Just keep in mind the texture may vary slightly depending on the blend used.

How do I prevent the candy canes from melting too much during baking?

By sprinkling the crushed candy canes immediately after baking, while the cookies are still warm but not piping hot, you ensure they stick to the surface without melting completely. This keeps that crunchy peppermint finish intact.

Final Thoughts

This Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is a joyful way to bring festive cheer right into your kitchen. They’re simple enough to make with kids, beautiful enough to share as gifts, and delicious enough to become a new holiday favorite. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and create memories as sweet as the cookies themselves.