Description
Get ready to delight in the festive magic of these Crispy Candy Cane Cookies—perfect for cookie swaps, holiday dessert tables, or simply a cozy night in. These buttery cookies are shaped into charming candy canes and dusted with sugar for a sparkle that catches the light and your tastebuds. With almond and vanilla flavors twisted into each bite, they deliver a nostalgic crunch and warm sweetness. Whether you’re hunting for a quick holiday baking project, easy recipe for kids, or creative cookie gift idea, this one checks all the boxes. A must-have for your Christmas cookie collection and perfect for holiday dessert ideas, fun food ideas, and quick festive treats.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Red gel food coloring, as needed
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
1. Cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually mix in flour and salt until dough forms.
4. Divide dough in half. Tint one half with red gel food coloring. Chill both portions for 30 minutes.
5. Roll 1 teaspoon of each dough color into ropes. Twist one red and one white together. Shape into candy canes.
6. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until set but not browned.
8. Sprinkle with granulated sugar while still warm.
9. Cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing.
Notes
These cookies crisp up more as they cool—so don’t overbake them.
You can swap almond extract for peppermint if you want a true candy cane vibe.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 115
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Christmas cookies, holiday treats, candy cane cookies, easy cookie recipe, festive dessert