As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a magical wonderland filled with the scent of joy and sweetness. One bite of these Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies and you’ll understand why they have become a cherished tradition in my home. With their beautifully crispy edges and soft, chewy centers, these cookies are the perfect balance of textures that delight every palate. The refreshing hint of peppermint dances through, while vibrant red and green candy canes offer a festive flair that will brighten any gathering.
This recipe isn’t just about the flavors; it’s also a speedy way to embrace the spirit of the holidays without the fuss. Imagine whipping up a batch in under an hour and impressing your friends and family with these stunning treats at your next holiday soirée! Whether enjoyed alongside a warm mug of cocoa or displayed proudly on a holiday cookie platter, these cookies are bound to become a beloved staple in your festive repertoire. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and create some holiday magic together!
Why are Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies a must-try?
Festive Flavor: The invigorating peppermint mixed with a soft, chewy center brings the essence of the holidays alive with every bite!
Quick & Easy: In just under an hour, you’ll have a stunning batch ready to share or enjoy.
Texture Delight: Experience the perfect crispiness outside combined with that delightful chewy center that keeps you coming back for more.
Incredible Versatility: Feel free to customize with optional white chocolate chips or sprinkles to match your festive theme!
Crowd Pleaser: These vibrant cookies are not only a hit with family but are sure to impress friends at any holiday gathering.
Dive into this delightful recipe and make your celebrations even sweeter!
Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake holiday joy!
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with cookie spread; you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
- Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and adds a hint of caramel flavor; light or dark brown sugar may be used interchangeably.
- Large Egg – Binds the dough for structure; a flax egg works for a vegan version.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; use pure vanilla for the best taste.
- Peppermint Extract – Provides the signature minty flavor; adjust quantity to taste for those holiday vibes.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the dough; feel free to swap for gluten-free flour if needed.
- Baking Soda – Leavening agent that helps cookies rise; don’t use baking powder without adjusting quantities accordingly.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; reduce by half if using salted butter.
For the Festive Touch
- Crushed Candy Canes – Adds flavor and a festive decoration; you can substitute with other crushed candies for a twist.
- White Chocolate Chips (Optional) – Adds creaminess and sweetness; omit for a classic cookie experience.
Embrace the holiday spirit by baking these Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies that are sure to impress!
How to Make Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This sets the stage for perfectly baked cookies that don’t stick!
-
Cream the unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes of mixing—watch for a pale, airy texture.
-
Mix in the large egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until fully incorporated. The dough will become wonderfully aromatic and ready for the next step!
-
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution of dry ingredients, which is crucial for that perfect cookie texture.
-
Combine the dry mixture into the wet mixture gradually, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing as this can lead to tough cookies; you want a soft, ready-to-bake dough!
-
Fold in the crushed candy canes and optional white chocolate chips for that delightful crunch and festive sweetness. Make sure they are evenly dispersed throughout the dough.
-
Scoop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This gives each cookie room to spread while baking.
-
Flatten each cookie slightly to ensure even baking. Just a gentle press works wonders for uniformity—no need to squish them too flat!
-
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; they’re done once they’re firm to the touch!
-
Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This lets them set properly and be ready for their sweet, cooled reward!
Optional: Drizzle with chocolate for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is fully softened for a smooth dough; cold butter leads to tough cookies.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the flour into the wet ingredients until just combined to maintain a tender texture in your Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies.
- Baking Time: Every oven is different! Start checking your cookies at 10 minutes to avoid overbaking them.
- Cool Properly: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack; this sets their shape.
- Custom Add-Ins: Feel free to experiment with different crushed candies or chocolate chips for unique flavor variations!
Storage Tips for Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and crispness.
Fridge: For optimal freshness, store in the fridge for up to two weeks; ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to three months. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag to preserve flavor and texture.
Reheating: Enjoy crispy cookies by reheating them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes, bringing back their delightful crunch.
Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies Variations
Feel free to spruce up your cookies and make them uniquely yours!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine for an equally delicious, dairy-free cookie.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies accessible for everyone in your holiday gathering.
- Chocolate Delight: Replace crushed candy canes with chocolate chips or walnuts for a rich, decadent twist on flavor.
- Festive Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cookies for an indulgent touch that adds elegance and depth.
- Colorful Dough: Add a few drops of food coloring to the dough—mix it in for a playful look that’s perfect for holiday cheer.
- Minty Freshness: Increase or decrease the peppermint extract to customize the mint intensity to your taste—make it a candy cane explosion or just a hint!
- Add Sprinkles: Toss a handful of festive sprinkles into the dough for an extra bit of holiday sparkle in every cookie!
- Spiced Variation: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour mixture for a warm holiday flavor blend that complements the peppermint beautifully.
What to Serve with Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies?
At your next festive gathering, make your holiday spread magical by pairing these delightful cookies with complementary treats and flavors.
- Rich Hot Cocoa: Warm up your guests with a rich, creamy hot cocoa that perfectly balances the minty flavor of the cookies. The chocolate pairs beautifully with peppermint!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The smooth creaminess contrasts the cookie’s crispiness and adds a delightful temperature difference.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Create a refreshing fruit salad with strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi. The natural sweetness and zestiness provide a vibrant contrast to the cookies’ sweetness.
- Peppermint Tea: For a comforting beverage, steep some peppermint tea. Its subtle minty notes harmonize beautifully with the cookies, enhancing the holiday flavors.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the cookies by drizzling them with melted dark or white chocolate. This indulgent touch adds a luxurious layer that contrasts the candy cane crunch.
- Festive Cheese Platter: Present a cheese platter with brie and crackers. The creamy texture of the cheese complements the sweetness of the cookies, making for a sophisticated pair.
- Mini Gingerbread Men: Add a personal touch by including mini gingerbread men. Their spiced flavor adds a delightful variety to your holiday cookie tray!
- Spiced Mulled Wine: Serve warm spiced mulled wine to your adult guests. The warm spices and sweetness of the wine beautifully complement the refreshing peppermint of the cookies.
- Sugar Cookie Bars: If you’re a cookie lover, add sugar cookie bars topped with icing for another texture and flavor that’s festive and fun!
These delightful pairings will elevate your holiday menu and create lasting memories with family and friends!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to simplify holiday preparations. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients except the crushed candy canes and white chocolate chips. Just wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply fold in the candy canes and chocolate chips, scoop, flatten, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavor and texture without the last-minute rush, giving you more time to savor the festive season!
Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting my peppermint extract?
When choosing peppermint extract, opt for pure extracts for the best flavor. Look for all-natural products without artificial ingredients, which can alter the taste. You might also find peppermint oil, but keep in mind it’s much more concentrated, so use only a few drops if substituting.
How should I store my Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies?
Store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For extended freshness, simply pop them in the fridge for about two weeks. Make sure they’re in a sealed container to retain their wonderful crispness and prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze my Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature, or reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes for that fresh-baked crispiness.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky or not coming together?
If your cookie dough is too sticky, it could be due to the butter being too warm or the flour measurement being off. Try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up, which can make it easier to scoop and handle. If the dough is too dry and crumbly, gradually add a teaspoon of milk or water until it comes together.
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The ingredients listed in the Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies do not include nuts. However, always check the labels of your ingredients and be cautious of cross-contamination, especially if you’re using pre-packaged items like chocolate chips or candy canes, which may contain traces of nuts.
Can I customize my cookie with different toppings or add-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to swap the crushed candy canes for other crushed candies or add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits for a unique twist. For an even more festive touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies or sprinkle over colorful holiday sprinkles before they cool completely. The more the merrier!
Crispy Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies for Festive Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the large egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until fully incorporated.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Combine the dry mixture into the wet mixture gradually, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the crushed candy canes and optional white chocolate chips.
- Scoop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each cookie slightly to ensure even baking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.