As the lights twinkle and the festive spirit fills the air, it's the perfect time to dive into holiday baking. One delightful recipe that never fails to bring a smile is Candy Cane Cookies. Imagine the sweet, minty aroma wafting from your kitchen as these vibrant red-and-white spirals emerge from the oven, ready to charm your family and friends alike. These cookies not only pack a refreshing peppermint punch but also bring a touch of whimsy to your holiday celebrations.

I discovered this cookie recipe on one of those cozy winter afternoons when all I wanted was a fun baking adventure. With a quick and easy method, these cookies transform your ordinary baking routine into a festive activity that's perfect for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices. Watch as the familiar shapes of candy canes come to life, making them a delightful addition to any cookie plate or a special treat for Santa himself. Let's get started on creating these deliciously festive Candy Cane Cookies that are sure to steal the holiday show!

Why Are Candy Cane Cookies a Must-Bake?

Festive Appeal: The iconic red-and-white design not only looks stunning on your holiday table but also adds a whimsical touch to any cookie spread.
Irresistible Mint Flavor: Made with refreshing peppermint extract, these cookies deliver a delightful burst of flavor that embodies the spirit of the season.
Simple Technique: Even if you're a beginner, the straightforward method will have you whipping up these charming treats with ease.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for cookie exchanges, gifts, or family gatherings, they'll surely impress your guests and loved ones alike.
Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance or freeze the cookies, making it easy to enjoy these festive delights whenever you crave them!

Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup / 8 oz) - Adds richness and moisture; use room temperature butter for easier mixing.
• Cream Cheese (½ cup / 4 oz) - Contributes to a tender texture; can substitute with equal amount of butter, but texture may differ.
• Granulated Sugar (1.33 cups / 10 oz) - Provides sweetness and structure to your Candy Cane Cookies.
• Large Egg Yolk (1) - Binds ingredients and adds richness; can be replaced with an egg replacer if needed.
• Peppermint Extract (2 tsp) - Infuses that signature mint flavor; adjust to taste, and vanilla can substitute for a milder profile.
• Salt (½ tsp) - Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour (3.5 cups / 16 oz) - Forms the bulk of the cookie dough; ensure accurate measurement for best results.

For Coloring
• Red Gel Food Coloring - Provides the bright red color for the candy canes, ensuring vibrant, eye-catching cookies without altering the dough's texture.

These ingredients come together to create unforgettable Candy Cane Cookies that will bring joy and festive cheer to your holiday gatherings!

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies

Prepare Dough: In a stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter until creamy. Then, add the cream cheese and mix until combined. Gradually include the granulated sugar, followed by the egg yolk, peppermint extract, and salt. Mix until smooth, then gradually add the flour until just combined.
Color the Dough: Divide the dough in half, taking one portion to color with red gel food coloring. Roll each color into rectangles between two sheets of parchment paper, ensuring even thickness.
Chill: Stack the colored rectangles together, gently press them, and roll them into a log. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 45 minutes, allowing the dough to firm up.
Shape Cookies: Once chilled, cut thin strips from the dough and roll them into logs. Twist and shape each log into candy cane shapes, placing them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it's heating, chill the tray with cookies. Bake for 12-14 minutes, just until they lose their shine and puff slightly.
Cool & Store: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them. Store in an airtight container for up to one week, or freeze for up to three months for later enjoyment.

Optional: Drizzle some melted white chocolate on top for an extra festive touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can make the dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it wrapped in plastic to maintain freshness. Alternatively, form the cookies into their candy cane shapes and freeze them for up to 3 months; just ensure they are arranged on a baking sheet in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw-just place them directly onto a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to your baking time. By prepping in advance, you'll have delicious, festive cookies ready to delight your family and guests with minimal effort!

Candy Cane Cookies Variations

Get creative with your holiday baking by customizing these delightful candy cane cookies into something uniquely yours!

Vanilla Twist: Substitute peppermint extract with vanilla for a mellow flavor, perfect for those who prefer a less minty cookie.
Almond Essence: Use almond extract instead of peppermint for a nutty, aromatic variation that still dazzles with its festive appearance.
Crushed Peppermints: Top your cookies with crushed peppermint candies before baking to add a delightful crunch and extra minty flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies for a rich contrast to the sweet mint, elevating your holiday treats to gourmet status.
Red and Green: Use green gel food coloring in place of red for a visually stunning variation that adds more festive flair to your cookie spread.
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to create a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing flavor.
Mini Candy Canes: Use small candy canes as decoration by inserting one into the top of each cookie before baking for a fun presentation!
Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough for a warm and cozy twist, merging holiday spices with the refreshing mint flavor.

Embrace the spirit of the season and let your imagination run wild with these tempting variations!

Expert Tips for Candy Cane Cookies

Butter Temperature: Use room temperature butter for easier mixing; cold butter can lead to dense cookies that won't spread nicely.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough until just combined to keep the cookies tender; overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
Coloring Technique: Opt for gel food coloring for vibrant results without affecting the dough's consistency. Liquid coloring may alter the dough texture.
Chilling Time: Don't skip the chilling step! It helps the dough firm up, making shaping easier and improving the final cookie texture.
Baking Sheet Choice: Use a non-insulated aluminum baking sheet for even browning; avoid dark, heavy sheets that can cause uneven cooking.

What to Serve with Candy Cane Cookies?

The festive spirit is in full swing, and pairing your delicious cookies can create a rounded, delightful experience for everyone.

Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy hot cocoa adds warmth and coziness, perfectly complementing the refreshing peppermint in the cookies.
Eggnog: This classic holiday drink's creamy sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the minty cookies, making every bite and sip feel indulgent.
Christmas Fruit Salad: A burst of fresh flavors from seasonal fruits brings a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies, balancing the dessert table wonderfully.
Whipped Cream Topping: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luxurious touch when served alongside the cookies, perfect for a decadent treat.
Peppermint Bark: For the ultimate festive dessert duo, serve these cookies beside peppermint bark, elevating that minty flavor to a whole new level of indulgence.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider brings seasonal spices to the forefront, enhancing the overall holiday atmosphere around your cookie platter.
Sugar Cookies: Offer a variety with classic sugar cookies; their simplicity highlights the vibrant flavors of the Candy Cane Cookies.
Gingerbread Men: The spices in gingerbread men marry well with the peppermint cookies, bringing a charming presentation and flavor combination to your holiday spread.
Milk: The classic pairing of a cold glass of milk never goes out of style and provides that perfect balance to the sweetness of the cookies.

Storage Tips for Candy Cane Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their softness and freshness.
Fridge: If your home is particularly warm, you can store the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week; just ensure they're well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, place frozen cookies on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through, rediscovering that delightful candy cane cookie magic!

Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ingredients for my Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, make sure to use room temperature unsalted butter for a smooth mix. Check that the cream cheese is fresh, as it contributes to the cookie's tender texture. For the flour, use all-purpose and measure it accurately: spoon it into the measuring cup and level off with a knife. This ensures the right dough consistency without excess flour, which can lead to tough cookies.

What is the best way to store Candy Cane Cookies?
Very good question! Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating them for up to a week to keep them fresh. Just be sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze these cookies, and how do I do it properly?
Absolutely! You can freeze Candy Cane Cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, let the cookies cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour to firm up. Once firm, wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them up in the oven!

What can I do if my dough is too soft to work with?
This is a common issue! If your dough becomes too soft, don't fret. Simply chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, or until it firms up for easier handling. Be cautious not to add too much extra flour while working, as it can lead to drier cookies.

Are there any common allergies I should be aware of?
Yes, definitely! This Candy Cane Cookies recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (butter and cream cheese) and gluten (flour). For those with dairy allergies, you can try using a dairy-free butter alternative and a vegan cream cheese. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially if you're sharing with guests or gifts.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance. Simply wrap the prepared dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This way, you can save time during the busy holiday season and still enjoy fresh, warm cookies when your guests arrive!