There’s an undeniable magic in the air as the holiday season approaches—especially when you walk into a kitchen filled with the enticing scent of freshly baked treats. Imagine the joyous crunch of candy canes mingling with rich, buttery cookies, perfectly adorned with a fluffy frosting that shimmers like freshly fallen snow. That’s exactly what these Candy Cane Frosted Cookies bring to the table, offering a delightful bite that embodies the spirit of togetherness and celebration.
A good friend of mine introduced me to this recipe at our annual cookie swap, and I was instantly hooked. The combination of cool peppermint and sweet vanilla made each cookie a little moment of bliss, perfect for sharing or enjoying with a warm cup of coffee. Not only are they impressively easy to whip up, but they also look stunning on a holiday platter. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or simply want to brighten up a weeknight dessert, these cookies are a delicious way to spread cheer and warmth.
Join me as I take you through this simple yet satisfying recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your festive baking repertoire!
Why Love Candy Cane Frosted Cookies?
Irresistible flavor comes from the delightful mix of peppermint and vanilla, giving these cookies a festive flair. Quick to make, they require minimal prep time yet yield visually stunning treats perfect for any holiday gathering. Perfectly chewy with a buttery texture, these cookies offer a satisfying bite. Crowd-pleaser appeal ensures they’ll vanish from any cookie platter! For more indulgent treats, check out this delightful cookie collection that will suit every occasion!
Candy Cane Frosted Cookies Ingredients
• To create the perfect Candy Cane Frosted Cookies, gather these fresh and delightful ingredients!
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – for a sturdy base that holds its shape
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – to help your cookies rise beautifully
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness in every bite
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – ensures a rich, buttery flavor
- 1 1/2 cups sugar – sweetens the cookies to perfection
- 1 large egg – binds the ingredients together for a tender crumb
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds depth and warmth to the flavor
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – infuses that festive candy cane essence
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting) – creates a smooth and creamy finish
- 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting) – helps achieve the desired frosting consistency
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (for frosting) – enhances the peppermint flavor in the frosting
- Crushed candy canes (for topping) – adds a crunchy, holiday touch!
How to Make Candy Cane Frosted Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly even bake for your cookies, making them light and fluffy.
Mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Whisk until well combined to ensure there are no lumps, setting the stage for a great dough.
Cream together the softened butter and sugar in a separate bowl until light and fluffy. This step should take about 2-3 minutes, as it incorporates air, creating a tender texture.
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined. This mixture should look smooth and creamy, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma!
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want lovely, tender cookies at the end!
Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Aim for about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
Bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as ovens may vary; you want the perfect chewy texture!
Cool the cookies completely on a wire rack. Patience is key here; letting them cool helps lock in flavor and texture.
For frosting: Combine powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract in a bowl and mix until smooth. The consistency should be thick yet easily spreadable!
Frost the cooled cookies and top with crushed candy canes. This adds a festive touch and extra crunch that elevates each bite.
Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an extra delicious twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Frosted Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight for optimal flavor.
Fridge: For longer preservation, these cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze un-frosted cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container, and add parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen cookies, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes for that freshly baked taste!
Expert Tips for Candy Cane Frosted Cookies
Perfect Dough Texture: Make sure the butter is softened but not melted; this ensures a creamy consistency that results in chewy cookies.
Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined to maintain the cookies’ tender texture—overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Spacing Matters: When placing dough balls on the baking sheet, ensure they are about 2 inches apart; this allows them to spread without sticking together.
Subtle Peppermint Flavor: Start with a small amount of peppermint extract in the frosting. You can always add more based on your taste preferences, but it’s easy to overpower the flavor!
Tempting Toppings: For a fun variation, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cookie dough for extra flavor and texture alongside the crushed candy canes.
These tips will help you create the best Candy Cane Frosted Cookies that will bring joy to your holiday season!
Make Ahead Options
These Candy Cane Frosted Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by rolling it into balls and then refrigerating them on a baking sheet. This not only saves time but helps the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature without sacrificing freshness. When ready to enjoy, simply frost the cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed candy canes right before serving for that delightful crunch. By preparing ahead of time, you’ll have festive treats ready to spread cheer with minimal effort!
Candy Cane Frosted Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these festive cookies with exciting twists!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free treat. They’ll still be soft, buttery, and perfect for sharing!
Chocolate Drizzle: After frosting, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cookies for a sweet contrast that adds richness to each bite. The combination is simply indulgent and pairs beautifully with peppermint!
Nutty Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for extra crunch and a delightful nutty flavor. The warm nuttiness complements the peppermint perfectly!
Orange Zest Twist: Add 1-2 teaspoons of freshly grated orange zest to the cookie dough for a vibrant citrus note that balances the sweetness. It brings a refreshing, aromatic layer to the classic flavor!
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter. You’ll still get tender cookies that everyone will love!
Spicy Heat: Mix in 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the cookie dough to create a surprising spicy kick that contrasts wonderfully with the cold peppermint. Get ready for a sweet and spicy delight!
Caramel Surprise: Add a few chocolate-covered caramel candies to the center of each cookie before baking. The gooey caramel will create an incredible surprise that enhances each buttery bite!
Dairy-Free Frosting: Swap milk for almond or coconut milk and use a dairy-free powdered sugar to make the frosting dairy-free without sacrificing taste. The cookies remain just as creamy and delightful!
What to Serve with Candy Cane Frosted Cookies?
Warm up your holiday gatherings with delightful encores to your tasty treats and festive spirit.
Rich Hot Chocolate: This creamy drink pairs perfectly with cookies, enhancing their flavor while adding a cozy touch to your celebrations.
Peppermint Tea: A refreshing, herbal tea balances the sweetness of the cookies, making it a soothing choice for a post-dinner treat.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, cold vanilla ice cream melts into the warm cookies, creating a delicious contrast of temperatures that’s sure to delight your taste buds.
Gingerbread Men: These spiced cookies bring an additional festive element, offering a satisfying chew and a wonderful burst of seasonal flavors alongside the peppermint.
Fruit Platter: A selection of fresh fruits, like strawberries and oranges, adds a bright, juicy contrast that helps cleanse the palate between bites of sweet cookies.
Spiked Eggnog: For a grown-up twist, this classic holiday drink complements the minty flavors and brings warmth to winter evenings spent with family and friends.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate pairs surprisingly well with sweet treats, adding both texture and flavor to your dessert spread.
Christmas Fruitcake: Rich and dense, this traditional treat offers a unique flavor profile that can balance the lighter cookie while evoking nostalgic holiday memories.
Each pairing enhances the festive ambiance, making your Candy Cane Frosted Cookies even more enjoyable!
Candy Cane Frosted Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When choosing peppermint extract, look for a pure extract without added flavors or artificial ingredients. Natural extracts are more flavorful and can elevate your Candy Cane Frosted Cookies. It’s often a good idea to check the label and go for brands that use high-quality peppermint oil for the best taste!
What’s the best way to store Candy Cane Frosted Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store them longer, refrigeration is an option; just wrap them tightly to prevent drying out. Enjoying them at room temperature is best, so let them warm up a bit before eating!
Can I freeze my Candy Cane Frosted Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze un-frosted cookies, place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and serving!
Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! If your Candy Cane Frosted Cookies spread too much, it could be due to softened butter being too warm or overmixing the dough. Be sure to use butter that is softened but not melted and mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can also help them maintain their shape while baking.
Are Candy Cane Frosted Cookies suitable for people with allergies?
Definitely check the ingredient labels! These cookies contain gluten from all-purpose flour, dairy from butter and milk, and eggs. If you or someone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour, dairy-free butter, or flax eggs as substitutes to make these festive cookies more inclusive!
Irresistibly Festive: Candy Cane Frosted Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar in a separate bowl until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool the cookies completely on a wire rack.
- For frosting: Combine powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract in a bowl and mix until smooth.
- Frost the cooled cookies and top with crushed candy canes.