Candy Canes
Sweet and festive candy canes with peppermint and almond flavors, perfect for holiday treats or gift-giving, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix thoroughly butter, shortening, confectioners sugar, egg, almond extract, and vanilla.
- Blend in flour and salt.
- Divide the dough in half and blend red food coloring into one half.
- Shape 1 teaspoon of dough from each half into a 4-inch rope by rolling on a floured board.
- Place ropes side by side and press together lightly.
- Twist and curve the top to form the handle of the cane.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 375°F.
- Mix crushed peppermint candy and sugar and remove the candy canes from the baking sheet.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the butter with a flavored butter, such as herb-infused or garlic butter. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract works well too. Experiment with different food colorings for festive variations. Ensure your dough is well-chilled before shaping to maintain its structure. For a unique twist, try adding crushed nuts for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
These candy canes are perfect as a holiday treat or as a sweet addition to gift baskets. Serve them alongside hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful pairing. They also make a charming decoration for cakes or cupcakes. For an extra festive touch, consider pairing them with Emma'S Cookies for a well-rounded dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover candy canes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To retain their freshness, ensure they are not exposed to moisture. If you prefer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candy Canes contains roughly 175 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 6g 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
How can I make these candy canes more colorful?
To create vibrant candy canes, you can mix different food colorings into the dough. Instead of just red, consider using green or even blue for a fun twist. Just remember to use gel food coloring for more intense colors without altering the dough's consistency.
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).