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Candy Cane Cookies – Festive, Buttery & Perfectly Swirled for the Holidays

Candy Cane Cookies are a timeless holiday classic—soft, buttery cookies twisted into iconic red-and-white swirls that instantly bring Christmas cheer. Lightly sweet with a hint of vanilla and optional peppermint, these cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat. Perfect for cookie trays, gifting, or cozy winter baking, they’re festive, elegant, and irresistibly nostalgic.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings: 20 Cookies
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Dough
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ tsp salt
For the Candy Cane Color & Flavor
  • Red food coloring
  • ½ tsp peppermint extract optional but festive
For Finishing (Optional)
  • Crushed candy canes
  • Granulated sugar or sanding sugar

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Step 1: Cream the Butter & Sugar
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
  1. Mix in egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
  1. Gradually add flour and salt.
  2. Mix until a soft, smooth dough forms.
Step 4: Divide & Color the Dough
  1. Divide dough evenly into two portions.
  2. Leave one portion plain.
  3. Add red food coloring and peppermint extract (if using) to the second portion and mix until evenly colored.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
  1. Wrap both dough portions and refrigerate for 30 minutes for easier handling.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Roll small pieces of each dough into thin ropes (about 5–6 inches long).
  3. Place one red and one white rope side by side, gently twist together, and curve into a candy cane shape.
Step 7: Bake
  1. Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until set but not browned.
Step 8: Cool & Decorate
  1. Cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
  2. Optional: sprinkle with crushed candy canes or sugar while warm.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.
Serve at room temperature—no reheating needed.
🥄 Variations
Vanilla-Only Version: Skip peppermint for a classic buttery flavor.
Chocolate Candy Canes: Replace ¼ cup flour with cocoa powder in one dough half.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Sparkly Finish: Roll dough ropes in colored sanding sugar before twisting.
Mini Candy Canes: Make smaller ropes for bite-sized cookies.
❓ 10 FAQs
Do these cookies spread?
Very little—they keep their shape well.
Is peppermint required?
No—it’s optional.
Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes—refrigerate up to 2 days.
Why chill the dough?
It makes shaping easier and prevents spreading.
Can kids help make these?
Absolutely—twisting the dough is fun and easy.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes—freeze wrapped dough for up to 2 months.
Why not overbake?
They should stay pale and tender.
Can I use liquid food coloring?
Yes—gel works best for vibrant color.
Do crushed candy canes melt?
Slightly—add lightly and don’t overload.
Are these good for gifting?
Perfect—festive and sturdy.
🏁 Conclusion
Candy Cane Cookies are a holiday baking favorite that never goes out of style. With their buttery texture, festive swirl, and cheerful shape, they bring warmth and joy to every cookie tray. Simple, classic, and irresistibly charming, these cookies are a must-bake for the season.