Carmen'S Candy Cane Cookies
Festive peppermint‑infused cookies with a bright red twist, perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet treat for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Thoroughly mix ½ cup margarine, ½ cup butter, 1 cup confectioners sugar, 1 egg, 1½ tsp almond extract, and 1 tsp vanilla.
- Blend in 2½ cups all‑purpose flour and 1 tsp salt until dough forms.
- Divide dough into two equal portions.
- Add ½ tsp red food coloring to one portion and mix until evenly colored.
- Shape a teaspoon of each dough portion into 4‑inch ropes.
- Arrange ropes on parchment paper and bake for about 10 minutes until golden.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using all butter instead of margarine. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Ensure that the dough is not overmixed after adding the flour to maintain a tender texture. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can also help if the dough is too soft to shape.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and pair beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. Consider serving them alongside other festive treats like Aunt Mary'S Banana-Chocolate Chip Bread or Christmas Nut Cake for a delightful dessert spread. They can also be garnished with additional crushed peppermint on top for extra festive flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, where they can last for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carmen'S Candy Cane Cookies contains roughly 1570 calories, with 4g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 153g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2816mg per serving (122% 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 a different type of extract?
Yes, you can substitute almond extract with an equal amount of vanilla extract or peppermint extract for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that using peppermint extract will enhance the minty flavor, making them even more festive.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to shape, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the dough and make it easier to handle. You can also dust your hands and work surface with a little extra flour to help with shaping.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it. Shape the ropes, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you're ready to bake, simply bake them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
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).