Candy Cane Cookie Recipe

There’s nothing that says “Christmas is here” quite like the sweet, minty crunch of a candy cane. And what could be more festive than turning those beloved holiday treats into buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies? These Candy Cane Cookies are a fun and nostalgic way to bring holiday cheer straight to your kitchen. With their classic red-and-white twist and a hint of peppermint flavor, they’re not only beautiful to look at but absolutely irresistible to eat.

Whether you’re baking them for a cookie exchange, Santa’s plate on Christmas Eve, or just to enjoy with a hot mug of cocoa, this recipe guarantees a cozy burst of holiday joy in every bite.

🧈 Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin twisting and baking, make sure you have everything ready on your counter. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookie Dough

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
Red food coloring (gel or liquid)

For Decoration

½ cup crushed candy canes
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

These ingredients make about 24 beautiful, candy-striped cookies that will fill your home with the warm scent of Christmas.

🥣 How to Make Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. The mixture should look pale and creamy.

Step 2: Add the Flavors

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Beat again until fully combined — this is where the holiday aroma starts filling your kitchen!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together.

Step 4: Divide and Color

Divide the dough into two equal parts. Keep one portion plain and color the other half with a few drops of red food coloring. Mix until the red dough is evenly tinted.

Step 5: Shape the Candy Canes

Take about 1 tablespoon of each dough (plain and red). Roll them into 6-inch ropes. Place one red rope next to one plain rope, press them gently together, and twist to form a candy cane pattern. Curve the top to create the classic candy cane shape.

Step 6: Chill

Place your shaped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This step helps them hold their shape while baking.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned. Remember — these cookies should stay soft and tender.

Step 8: Add the Finishing Touch

While the cookies are still warm, sprinkle them with a mix of crushed candy canes and sugar. The heat will slightly melt the candy, creating a sweet, festive sparkle.

🍬 Tips for Perfect Candy Cane Cookies

Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring gives a richer red without adding too much liquid to the dough.
Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too soft, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes before shaping.
Twisting Trick: Roll the ropes evenly — uneven ropes can break when you twist them together.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.

🎄 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Candy Cane Cookies aren’t just adorable — they’re a perfect blend of buttery vanilla flavor with a refreshing peppermint twist. Their festive look makes them ideal for Christmas cookie trays, gift boxes, or even as edible tree decorations. Kids love helping with the twisting and decorating, making this recipe a fun family tradition year after year.

☕ Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with:

A cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream
A peppermint mocha latte for a festive afternoon treat
Or simply enjoy them on their own while wrapping gifts or watching Christmas movies

For an extra-special touch, drizzle a bit of white chocolate over the cookies before adding the crushed candy canes. It gives them a glossy, bakery-style finish!

💡 Variations

Chocolate Lovers: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to half the dough for a chocolate-and-vanilla candy cane effect.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Sparkle Upgrade: Sprinkle edible glitter or gold dust before baking for a magical holiday look.

❤️ Conclusion

If you’re searching for a cookie that captures the spirit of Christmas, this Candy Cane Cookie Recipe is the one. They’re nostalgic, flavorful, and guaranteed to make your dessert table shine. Every twist tells a story of holiday cheer — perfect for gifting, sharing, and celebrating the sweetest time of the year.

So preheat your oven, put on your favorite Christmas playlist, and get ready to bake up some holiday magic. Because nothing spreads love faster than homemade cookies with a peppermint kiss!