Christmas Cookie Canes
Chewy, festive Christmas Cookie Canes combine the rich flavors of butter, vanilla, and oats with the sweetness of powdered sugar. Topped with halved candied cherries, they make charming treats perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting, offering a delightful crunch and colorful presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, cream together butter, salt, vanilla, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
- At low speed, add sifted flour and oats until just combined.
- Form the dough into large or small canes.
- Place the canes on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Place halved candied cherries on top of the canes.
- Bake in a preheated 325°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a festive twist, consider adding crushed peppermint candies to the dough or as a topping. If you don't have quick oats, rolled oats can be used; just pulse them in a food processor for a finer texture. Make sure to avoid overmixing the dough once the flour and oats are added to keep the canes tender.
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas Cookie Canes are delightful on their own or paired with a warm cup of Mocha Punch. For a festive platter, serve alongside other holiday treats like Peach Blueberry Pie and Chocolate Clair Cake. They also make great gifts when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookie canes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Cookie Canes contains roughly 139 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 10g 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 use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor. For the best results, use a stick margarine that is suitable for baking. Keep in mind that the canes may spread a bit more than with butter.
What can I use instead of candied cherries?
If you don't have candied cherries, you can substitute with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure the topping complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to handle. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping.
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).