Candy Canes Cookies
Sweet, festive candy cane cookies with a delightful red and white striped appearance, perfect for holiday celebrations and cookie exchanges, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients, except the red food coloring.
- Divide the dough in half.
- Add the red food coloring to one half of the dough and knead until evenly colored.
- Roll approximately 1 teaspoon of each color dough into 4-inch strips.
- Twist the two colors together to create a candy cane effect.
- Place the twisted dough strips on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Curve the top of each strip downward to form a candy cane shape.
- Bake for 9 minutes at 375°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with additional butter. If you prefer a different taste, you can use peppermint extract instead of almond extract. Ensure that your dough is not too sticky by adding a little extra flour if needed. For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candy on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These candy cane cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and can be served alongside hot cocoa or coffee. For a delightful treat, pair them with Ann'S Blueberry Cheese Cake for a sweet dessert spread. Consider using them as festive gifts in a decorative tin for friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their freshness, you can also freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candy Canes Cookies contains roughly 266 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 27g fat.
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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After mixing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften before shaping.
What can I use instead of shortening?
You can replace shortening with an equal amount of butter or margarine for a different flavor and texture. If you prefer a healthier option, try using coconut oil, which will add a subtle coconut flavor while still providing the necessary fat content.
How do I achieve a vibrant red color?
For a more vibrant red color, use gel food coloring rather than liquid food coloring, as it provides more intense color without adding extra moisture. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach the desired shade.
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).