Get into the holiday spirit with these delightful Candy Cane Cookies. Made with a buttery vanilla dough, these festive treats are shaped into candy canes and topped with crushed peppermint. They are not only visually appealing but also delicious, with a perfect balance of sweetness and minty goodness. These cookies are a perfect addition to any holiday party or cookie exchange. Spread the joy of the season with these Candy Cane Cookies!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- Red food coloring
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and almond extract, and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. Leave one portion plain, and add a few drops of red food coloring to the other portion. Mix well until the dough is evenly colored.
- Roll out a small piece of each colored dough into a thin rope, about 6 inches long.
- Twist the two ropes together and then carefully shape them into a candy cane shape.
- Transfer the shaped cookies to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough, placing the cookies on additional baking sheets as needed.
- Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top of each cookie, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Place the baking sheets in the refrigerator and chill the cookies for at least 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the chilled cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are set and just beginning to turn golden around the edges.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
