If you’re looking to add a festive touch to your holiday baking this year, look no further than these delightful Candy Cane Frosted Cookies. Bursting with the sweet essence of peppermint and adorned with a vibrant pink frosting, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. This recipe combines soft and chewy sugar cookies with a luscious candy cane frosting that captures the spirit of the season.
Not only do these cookies taste fantastic, but they also make for beautiful gifts or decorations for your holiday spread. The stunning appearance and delightful flavor profile make them perfect for Christmas parties or cozy gatherings at home. Plus, they’re easy to prepare! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Get ready to indulge in a treat that’s not just delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this Candy Cane Frosted Cookies recipe offers something for everyone. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the joy of creating these festive delights!
Main Ingredients
Sugar
Sugar is the star ingredient in any cookie recipe, providing sweetness and contributing to that delightful chewy texture we all love. For this recipe, you’ll need 1 cup of granulated sugar. As it bakes, sugar caramelizes slightly, enhancing the cookie’s flavor while helping it achieve that golden-brown hue on the edges.
Butter
For rich flavor and moisture, we use ½ cup of unsalted butter at room temperature. Butter creates a tender crumb in your cookies and helps bind all the ingredients together effectively. It’s essential to allow your butter to soften before mixing; this ensures it incorporates smoothly into the dough.
Eggs
Two large eggs add structure and stability to our cookie dough while also enriching its flavor. Eggs act as a binding agent that holds all the ingredients together while contributing to the softness of each bite. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
All-Purpose Flour
You’ll need 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour to create the body of our cookies. Flour provides structure to baked goods and plays a vital role in determining their texture. Make sure to measure your flour accurately by spooning it into your measuring cup without packing it down.
Baking Powder
Baking powder serves as our leavening agent; we require 1 teaspoon for this recipe. It helps our cookies rise during baking, giving them that soft and pillowy texture we desire. Be sure your baking powder is fresh for the best results.
Salt
Just ½ teaspoon of salt enhances all the flavors in our cookie dough without making them taste salty. Salt balances sweetness and brings out underlying flavors in baked goods.
Peppermint Extract
To capture that iconic candy cane flavor, we use 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. This extract infuses our frosting with that refreshing minty taste associated with holiday treats. Be careful not to add too much; a little goes a long way!
Powdered Sugar
For our frosting, you’ll need 3 cups of powdered sugar which gives it that smooth texture we’re after when decorating our cookies. Powdered sugar blends easily with other ingredients like butter and milk to create a velvety frosting.
Milk
Lastly, we’ll use about 2 tablespoons of milk for our frosting consistency; feel free to adjust based on how thick you’d like it. Milk helps blend powdered sugar into a smooth frosting while adding moisture.
How to Prepare Candy Cane Frosted Cookies
Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
To begin preparing your Candy Cane Frosted Cookies, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed works best here. This process incorporates air into the mixture which leads us towards achieving those beautifully textured cookies.
Next, add in both eggs one at a time; mix well after each addition until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of your bowl as needed so every bit gets evenly mixed into this luscious batter! Now slowly incorporate your dry ingredients —all-purpose flour combined with baking powder along with salt— using either a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined; you don’t want overmixing as it can lead tough results!
Once everything comes together nicely into soft dough form (it might be slightly sticky), divide it into equal portions before rolling them into balls approximately 1 tablespoon each onto ungreased baking sheets spaced about two inches apart from one another for even baking space!
Step 2: Bake Your Cookies
Now it’s time for those delicious little spheres of dough to hit the oven! Slide your prepared baking sheets filled with cookie dough balls into preheated oven racks carefully set about halfway through ensuring they bake evenly across all sides within given timeframe—approximately 10-12 minutes should suffice depending on individual oven behavior!
Keep an eye on them towards end; you’re looking for edges turning golden brown while centers remain soft—they will continue cooking slightly after being removed from heat source due residual warmth! Once done perfectly baked remove sheets from oven using potholders then let cool down completely before transferring onto wire racks positioned nearby—this allows airflow around baked treats ensuring no soggy bottoms develop post-baking session!
Step 3: Prepare the Frosting
While waiting patiently on those warm delights cooling off thoroughly let’s shift focus towards preparing our delightful peppermint-infused frosting! In another mixing bowl combine softened unsalted butter (¾ cup) along with sifted powdered sugar (3 cups) — using electric mixer again beat together until creamy consistency achieved (around 5 minutes).
Next step involves adding milk gradually (2 tablespoons) alongside peppermint extract (1 teaspoon); continue beating until fluffy texture emerges resembling whipped icing perfection! If you find frosting too thick simply add additional milk by teaspoons till desired smoothness reached—but avoid making runny as well so keep balance right throughout process!
Once ready transfer finished product over cooled off cookie tops generously allowing some drizzle down sides if desired adding charm factor visually speaking alongside flavor explosion upon first bite taken!
Step 4: Decorate with Crushed Candy Canes
Finally comes fun part—decorating those lovely frosted masterpieces before enjoying every single one later on! After spreading generous amounts freshly made peppermint icing atop cooled down beauties sprinkle crushed candy cane pieces liberally atop each frosted portion so they stick nicely adhering firmly yet gently without overwhelming sweetness overpowering overall experience when biting through layers present here!
For best presentation consider waiting few moments allowing icing set lightly before serving guests at festive gatherings where everyone can appreciate effort put forth bringing cheerfulness through such scrumptious treats made readily available during special occasions celebrated together amongst loved ones gathering around table sharing laughter alongside sweet memories created today!
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
When serving Candy Cane Frosted Cookies during holidays or any festive occasion remember presentation matters immensely! Arrange beautifully decorated treats onto large platters garnished perhaps fresh mint leaves alongside sprigs holly giving extra flair visual appeal attracting attention instantly once placed center stage among other dishes adorning dining table setup.
Consider pairing these delightful bites accompanying hot cocoa topped marshmallows cozying up cold winter nights spent indoors enjoying great conversations shared amongst friends family alike indulging dessert offerings available throughout evening festivities whether casual gatherings intimate celebrations held throughout season approaching quickly!
Cookies themselves remain soft flavorful lasting longer when stored correctly ensuring maximum freshness preserved every single day enjoyed thereafter too! Aim serve promptly after preparation keeping leftovers wrapped securely within airtight containers placed refrigerator extending shelf-life beyond initial indulgence giving ample opportunity savor delectable goodness left behind post-event days following busy schedules ahead too!
Mistakes to avoid
When making Candy Cane Frosted Cookies, avoiding common mistakes can significantly enhance your results. One frequent error is not chilling the dough adequately. This step is crucial because it helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. If you skip this, your cookies may spread too much, resulting in flat and unattractive treats. Always remember to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Another common mistake is overmixing the dough. While it’s essential to combine ingredients thoroughly, overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones. Aim to mix until just combined, and let the flour incorporate without excessive agitation. The texture will greatly improve when you adopt this approach.
Using stale or low-quality ingredients is another pitfall. Fresh ingredients are key to achieving the best flavor and texture in your Candy Cane Frosted Cookies. Ensure your butter is at room temperature and that your baking soda is fresh for optimal rise. Similarly, using high-quality peppermint extract will yield a more vibrant flavor profile.
Lastly, don’t forget about proper measuring techniques. Accurately measuring flour and sugar can make a significant difference in the cookie’s final texture and taste. Use dry measuring cups for solid ingredients and liquid measuring cups for liquids to prevent any mishaps that could affect your final product.
Tips and tricks
To create perfect Candy Cane Frosted Cookies, incorporating helpful tips into your baking routine can be beneficial. Start by preheating your oven correctly; an oven thermometer can help ensure accuracy. Baking at the right temperature prevents undesired results such as burnt edges or undercooked centers.
Another tip is to use parchment paper on your baking sheets. This non-stick surface makes transferring cookies easier and leads to even baking without sticking issues. It also minimizes cleanup afterward, allowing you to enjoy your treats sooner.
When it comes to frosting, consider using a piping bag for precise application of the candy cane frosting. This technique not only makes for a visually appealing presentation but also ensures each cookie has an even layer of frosting. You can also sprinkle crushed candy cane bits on top of the frosting for added texture and festive flair.
Finally, allow your cookies to cool completely before frosting them. This step is crucial as warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt away, ruining that beautiful finish you’ve worked hard on.
Suggestions for Candy Cane Frosted Cookies
To elevate your Candy Cane Frosted Cookies further, consider adding some creative twists. One suggestion is incorporating different extracts into the dough or frosting, such as vanilla or almond extract, which can complement the peppermint flavor beautifully while adding depth.
Experimenting with various sprinkles or toppings can also enhance both appearance and taste. Options like red sugar crystals or mini chocolate chips can add a delightful crunch and visual appeal that attracts attention during holiday gatherings.
Another great suggestion is adjusting the size of your cookie scoop based on preference; larger cookies will have a chewier center while smaller ones will be crispier overall. Keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly depending on size, so monitor closely as they bake.
Lastly, consider packaging these cookies as gifts! Using clear bags tied with festive ribbons not only looks attractive but also makes for thoughtful presents during holidays or special occasions.
FAQs
What are Candy Cane Frosted Cookies?
Candy Cane Frosted Cookies are delightful holiday treats made from a soft sugar cookie base topped with smooth peppermint-flavored frosting and garnished with crushed candy cane pieces. These cookies are particularly popular during Christmas time due to their festive colors and flavors that evoke holiday cheer, making them perfect for parties or gift-giving.
How do I store leftover Candy Cane Frosted Cookies?
To store leftover Candy Cane Frosted Cookies properly, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them by wrapping individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for frosting?
Yes! While traditional Candy Cane Frosted Cookies often feature white chocolate frosting for its sweetness, dark chocolate offers a rich contrast that many people enjoy. If you opt for dark chocolate, consider balancing its bitterness with additional powdered sugar or cream if desired.
How do I make my own crushed candy canes?
To make crushed candy canes at home, simply place unwrapped candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush them using a rolling pin or mallet until they reach desired consistency—fine powder or coarser chunks work well! Alternatively, you can pulse them briefly in a food processor but be cautious not to overprocess into dust.
Are there gluten-free options available for these cookies?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Candy Cane Frosted Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking purposes. Be sure to check all other ingredients like baking powder or extracts for gluten content as well!
Can I freeze my Cookie Dough?
Yes! You can freeze Cookie Dough before baking it by portioning it out into balls and placing them on a lined baking sheet until firm before transferring them into freezer-safe bags or containers. When ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before following normal baking instructions!
Conclusion
In conclusion, making delicious Candy Cane Frosted Cookies hinges on avoiding common mistakes while employing helpful tips throughout the process. Remembering essential steps like chilling dough properly ensures beautifully shaped cookies every time you bake.
Incorporating creative suggestions such as varying toppings enhances both flavor profiles and visual presentation—making these treats ideal gifts during festive seasons! Storing leftovers correctly prolongs enjoyment beyond initial batches too.
Finally addressing frequently asked questions provides clarity around preparation methods so bakers feel confident tackling this delightful recipe head-on! Enjoy each step along this sweet journey into creating unforgettable holiday memories with every batch of these delightful cookies!
Print
Candy Cane Frosted Cookies
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 12
- Total Time: 32 minutes
Ingredients
- Sugar: Granulated (1 cup)
- Butter: Unsalted, softened (½ cup)
- Eggs: Large (2)
- All-Purpose Flour: (2 ½ cups)
- Baking Powder: (1 tsp)
- Salt: (½ tsp)
- Peppermint Extract: (1 tsp)
- Powdered Sugar: (3 cups)
- Milk: (2 tbsp)
- Crushed Candy Canes: For decoration
Instructions
- Make Cookie Dough: Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, mix well. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt. Form dough into balls.
- Bake Cookies: Place dough balls on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, until golden at the edges. Let cool.
- Make Frosting: Beat softened butter and powdered sugar. Add milk and peppermint extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Decorate: Frost cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
Notes
- Ensure butter and eggs are softened for smooth mixing.
- Adjust frosting consistency by adding more milk if needed.
- Let cookies cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the icing.