Candy Cane Cookies
These delightful candy cane cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of peppermint and buttery sweetness, making them perfect for holiday gifting and enjoyment.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use a good brand for better flavor.
- 1 cup powdered sugar Provides tenderness.
- 1 large egg Binds ingredients together; can substitute with a flax egg.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Choose a good quality vanilla.
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Structure for the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract Use sparingly to avoid overpowering flavor.
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder Aids in lifting the cookies.
- as needed red food coloring Gel food coloring works best.
- optional crushed candy canes for topping Adds extra crunch and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, peppermint extract, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half and mix a few drops of red food coloring into one half.
Shaping
- Roll small portions of each colored dough into ropes about 1/2 inch thick, and twist them together to form candy cane shapes.
- Place the twisted cookies on the lined baking sheet, keeping them an inch or two apart.
- If desired, very lightly brush each cookie with water or egg white and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
Baking
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are just turning golden, then cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze on a baking sheet until solid and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 90kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 1gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 50mgSugar: 5g
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