The moment I unwrap the red and white striped cookies from the oven, I’m transported to a winter wonderland filled with the scent of peppermint and nostalgia. Magic Candy Cane Cookies aren’t just treats; they’re little bites of festive joy that transform any gathering into a holiday celebration. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a cozy evening baking session, and it has since become a cherished tradition in my household.
These cookies combine the buttery richness of traditional cookies with the refreshing zing of peppermint, making them a perfect alternative to the hustle and bustle of fast food. Whether you’re looking to impress at an upcoming potluck or simply want to add a little sweetness to your family rituals, these cookies are your go-to. What’s even better? They’re simple enough for bakers of all levels but look oh-so-fancy on your dessert platter. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s create some edible magic together!
Why You'll Love This Magic Candy Cane Cookies
- These Magic Candy Cane Cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- The delightful combination of buttery cookie and refreshing peppermint flavor will awaken your taste buds and fill your home with a festive aroma.
- Their stunning red and white swirl not only makes them visually appealing but also perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges.
- Plus, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, bringing smiles to friends and family alike while making your baking experience a joyful one.
Magic Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready for a festive baking adventure!
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted butter – 225 g, softened to ensure a creamy mix for Magic Candy Cane Cookies.
• Powdered sugar – 120 g, provides a sweet touch and helps create a fluffy texture.
• Large egg – 1, at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
• Peppermint extract – 0.5 teaspoon, adds that signature festive zing.
• All-purpose flour – 315 g, the base of your cookie dough providing structure.
• Salt – 0.5 teaspoon, balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Red gel food coloring – Provides that iconic candy cane hue, making your cookies visually striking.
How to Make Magic Candy Cane Cookies
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Beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, creating a light base for your cookies. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer on medium speed.
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Mix in the egg along with vanilla and peppermint extracts until fully combined. You want a luscious, creamy consistency that smells like a holiday dream.
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Whisk together flour and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
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Divide the dough in half. Tint one half with red gel food coloring until desired shade is achieved, adding a festive flair. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour to firm up the dough.
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Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly set.
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Roll equal portions of red and white dough into thin ropes, about 12 inches long. Twist them together gently to shape into candy cane forms; be creative and have fun with it!
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Place shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until set but not browned—look for a soft surface that’s just firm to the touch.
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Cool on trays before serving, allowing their flavors to meld and making them easier to handle.
Optional: Drizzle with melted white chocolate for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Magic Candy Cane Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor, perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday season.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, these cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, keeping them wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For future indulgence, freeze Magic Candy Cane Cookies individually in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or warm them in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5 minutes to refresh their delightful flavor.
What to Serve with Magic Candy Cane Cookies?
The holidays are calling, and the perfect gathering deserves delightful accompaniments that enhance your festive treats.
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Hot Chocolate: This rich, creamy beverage is a classic pairing that complements the peppermint flavor beautifully. The warmth and sweetness create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying with family and friends.
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Eggnog: A traditional holiday drink with a creamy texture and hint of spice, eggnog perfectly balances the minty freshness of the cookies. Serve it chilled or warmed, and you’ve got a festive toast for the ages!
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Gingerbread Men: These spiced cookies offer a lovely contrast to the sweet peppermint bites. Their crisp edges and soft centers add a delightful variety to your dessert table, bringing a comforting holiday flavor.
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Sugar Cookies: Soft and sweet, these treats make for a wonderful pairing, offering a delicate texture that allows the vibrant candy cane cookies to shine. Decorate them with festive icing to add visual appeal.
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Pecan Pie: Rich and nutty, this dessert adds depth to your menu. The contrast between the soft, chewy cookies and the crunchy pie creates a texture delight that’s sure to please everyone at your gathering.
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Milkshake: A minty milkshake served cold can be a fabulous companion for your cookies. Blend scoops of vanilla ice cream with a splash of peppermint extract for a refreshing treat that echoes the candy cane flavors.
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Chocolate Covered Pretzels: Salty and sweet, these treats introduce a fun crunch that pairs wonderfully with cookies. Their bold taste complements the gentle sweetness of the cookies, while providing a delightful contrast in textures.
These pairings will elevate your cookie experience and create cherished moments around the table!
Make Ahead Options
These Magic Candy Cane Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, bringing sweet convenience to your busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first four steps of the recipe, then wrap the divided dough portions tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves time but helps the flavors meld beautifully. If you’re looking to extend the prep even further, you can also freeze the wrapped dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator, roll it out, and follow the baking instructions. Rest assured, your cookies will be just as delightful and festive, making your time in the kitchen a breeze!
Magic Candy Cane Cookies Variations
Let your imagination run wild as you adapt these festive cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free baking mix to accommodate gluten sensitivities without compromising on taste.
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Naturally Sweetened: Replace powdered sugar with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness, keeping those lovely peppermint notes intact and delightful.
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Choco-Mint Delight: Add 100g of mini chocolate chips to the dough to create a sweet and minty fusion that chocolate lovers won’t be able to resist.
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Spiced Christmas Cookies: Include 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and cozy spice that beautifully complements the peppermint.
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Colorful Swirls: Instead of just red, experiment with other gel food colors or even add multi-colored sprinkles to the dough for a rainbow of fun that makes cookie decorating festive!
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Peppermint Crunch: Fold in crushed peppermint candies into the dough to elevate your cookies with added texture and bursts of sweet minty flavor in every bite.
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Dairy-Free: Opt for vegan butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) to make a delightful dairy-free version that’s just as scrumptious.
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Extra-Layered Goodness: Drizzle your baked cookies with a mix of melted chocolate and white chocolate for a decadent finish that’ll wow your guests and sweeten your holiday spread.
With these variations, you can transform your Magic Candy Cane Cookies into personalized treats that everyone will adore!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Magic Candy Cane Cookies, ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for optimal creaming with the powdered sugar.
- Common mistakes include overmixing the dough after adding the flour, which can make the cookies tough instead of tender.
- To achieve the best candy cane shape, roll the dough into even ropes and twist them gently to maintain a consistent thickness.
- Remember to bake the cookies at 180°C for no more than 10 minutes to keep them soft and chewy, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Magic Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for Magic Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, select unsalted butter at room temperature—it ensures a creamy mix and fluffy texture. Look for fresh ingredients, especially the eggs (a large one is ideal) and extracts. The powdered sugar should be fine to blend smoothly into the butter, and opt for high-quality peppermint extract to amplify that festive flavor. Freshness matters, so check your supplies for any signs of age, particularly the flour and extracts.
How should I store Magic Candy Cane Cookies?
To keep your cookies delightful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, placing them in the fridge is perfect, allowing them to stay fresh for up to a week. Just remember to wrap them tightly to prevent them from drying out. This way, you can enjoy those festive treats for a little longer!
Can I freeze Magic Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! Freezing these cookies is a great way to save them for future celebrations. First, allow the cookies to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can stay delicious for up to 3 months! When you want to enjoy some magic again, just thaw them at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5 minutes.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very good question! If your Magic Candy Cane Cookies dough feels overly sticky, don’t worry—this can happen sometimes, especially in warm weather or if too much moisture has been added. To fix this, sprinkle in a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough becomes manageable. Just be cautious not to overdo it; you want a soft dough that still holds its shape. It’s important to chill the dough for an hour, as this will make it easier to work with when shaping those candy canes.
Are Magic Candy Cane Cookies suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, but it depends! These cookies are not gluten-free due to all-purpose flour, but they can be adapted for those with certain allergies. You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour if gluten is a concern. Always ensure that any flavoring extracts you use are free from allergens, and consider using dairy-free butter and an egg substitute (like flaxseed meal or aquafaba) for those with dairy or egg sensitivities. Just be aware of your friends’ and families’ dietary needs; being inclusive is part of the holiday spirit!
Magic Candy Cane Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the egg along with vanilla and peppermint extracts until fully combined.
- Whisk together flour and salt in a separate bowl, then gradually add to the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half and tint one half with red gel food coloring. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Roll equal portions of red and white dough into thin ropes, twist together to shape into candy cane forms.
- Place shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until set.
- Cool on trays before serving.
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