Candy Cane Cookies

Name: Candy Cane Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup crushed candy canes

Published: December 5, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Candy Cane Cookies

This incredible Candy Cane Cookies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Candy Cane Cookies:

All-Purpose Flour: Use standard all-purpose flour for a soft and fluffy cookie base that holds its shape perfectly.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent ensures your cookies rise beautifully and have that perfect chewy texture.
Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness; remember to let it soften to room temperature first!
Granulated Sugar: Sweeten things up! The sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the cookie’s crisp edges.
Eggs: Use large eggs; they add moisture and bind all those delicious flavors together.
Vanilla Extract: The aroma of vanilla complements the minty flavor perfectly while enhancing overall taste.
Candy Canes: Crush these beloved holiday treats into tiny bits for that signature minty crunch in every bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Candy Cane Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will help your cookies slide off without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder until well combined. This ensures even distribution so every cookie bakes evenly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together soft butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about two minutes—don’t rush it; this step adds air into your dough!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well incorporated before moving on to avoid chunky surprises later.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender cookies here!

Step 6: Fold in Candy Canes

Finally, gently fold in crushed candy canes until evenly distributed throughout the dough. These little pieces will give your cookies their festive flair!

Step 7: Bake Away!

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.

Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before indulging—if you can resist that long!

Now you’ve created a tray of delightful Candy Cane Cookies ready to spread joy! Serve them at your next holiday gathering or keep them all to yourself—I won’t tell anyone!

You Must Know About Candy Cane Cookies

This showstopping Candy Cane Cookies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To create the ultimate Candy Cane Cookies, start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy. Then, mix in the eggs and vanilla before gradually incorporating the dry ingredients. Shape the dough and add crushed candy canes before baking to perfection.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Candy Cane Cookies! Swap out peppermint extract for vanilla for a milder flavor or add chocolate chips for a delightful twist. You could also use different types of crushed candies for an exciting variation.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat briefly in the microwave if desired.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Candy Cane Cookies

This professional-quality Candy Cane Cookies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Baking these cookies always reminds me of Christmas Eve when my family would gather around, waiting impatiently as the sweet scent wafted through the house. Their smiles made every sprinkle worth it!

FAQs

What are Candy Cane Cookies?

Candy Cane Cookies are delightful festive treats that blend the flavors of peppermint and vanilla. These cookies are typically made from a buttery dough, flavored with crushed candy canes, and often shaped into whimsical forms. They feature a signature red and white swirl that resembles a traditional candy cane, making them visually appealing as well. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift, Candy Cane Cookies bring joy to any festive occasion, combining taste and charm in every bite.

How do I store Candy Cane Cookies?

To keep your Candy Cane Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This method preserves their soft texture and flavor for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to freezer bags. Properly stored, these cookies can last up to three months in the freezer while maintaining their delicious taste.

Can I customize my Candy Cane Cookies?

Yes! You can easily customize Candy Cane Cookies to suit your preferences. Consider adding chocolate chips for extra sweetness or using different flavored extracts like almond or vanilla for variety. You might also experiment with food coloring to create unique designs beyond the traditional red and white swirl. Additionally, drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies adds an elegant touch and enhances their festive appearance.

Are Candy Cane Cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! Candy Cane Cookies make wonderful gifts during the holiday season. Their vibrant colors and festive design impress recipients and add a personal touch to your gift-giving. To present them beautifully, arrange the cookies in decorative tins or boxes lined with festive tissue paper. Adding a simple handwritten note can make your gift even more special, sharing the joy of your homemade treats with family and friends.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Candy Cane Cookies are not only delicious but also fun to make and share during the holiday season. Their vibrant appearance combined with delightful peppermint flavor brings joy to any gathering. Whether you choose to customize them or stick with the classic recipe, these cookies will surely impress your guests. By storing them properly or gifting them creatively, you can spread festive cheer far and wide with these delightful treats!