Candy Cane Oatmeal Cookies
Chewy, festive oatmeal cookies shaped like candy canes, with buttery sweetness and a hint of vanilla, perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a saucepan or microwave.
- Add powdered sugar, flour, vanilla, water, salt, and oatmeal to the melted butter and mix until well combined.
- Shape the dough into candy cane shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a festive twist, try adding crushed peppermint candies to the dough for extra flavor. You can substitute half of the butter with applesauce to make these cookies lighter. If you're short on time, use pre-made cookie dough and shape it into candy cane forms, though the flavor may differ. To enhance the sweetness, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top after baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful Candy Cane Oatmeal Cookies with a glass of milk or hot chocolate for a perfect holiday treat. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive presentation, arrange them on a decorative platter alongside other treats like Just Delicious Cookies and Cocoa Chip Chews.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply place the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candy Cane Oatmeal Cookies contains roughly 110 calories, with 0g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 590mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, you can use rolled oats in this recipe. However, the texture might be slightly chewier and the cookies will have a heartier bite. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if necessary, as rolled oats may require a minute or two longer to bake properly.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. For a lighter version, applesauce can replace half of the butter, keeping the cookies moist while reducing fat content.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when they turn golden brown around the edges and are slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet, so avoid overbaking to keep them chewy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).