The holiday season brings with it a flurry of festive activities, from family gatherings to cozy nights by the fire. And what better way to enhance this magical time than with a batch of delightful White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies? These cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors and everything we love about the holidays. With their unique combination of creamy white chocolate chips and the refreshing crunch of crushed candy canes, they encapsulate the essence of seasonal cheer in every bite.
What makes these White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies truly special is their simplicity. Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, this recipe guides you through each step with ease, ensuring that you produce impressive results every time. The sweet, buttery base paired with festive minty goodness makes every cookie an experience of joy. Plus, they are perfect for sharing with friends and family or for leaving out for Santa on Christmas Eve!
Not only do these cookies taste amazing, but they also bring a splash of color and festive flair to any dessert table. Imagine serving these enchanting cookies at your next holiday gathering. They will catch the eye of your guests, inviting them to indulge in a sweet treat that encapsulates the spirit of the holidays!
Why You’ll Love This White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet creaminess of white chocolate perfectly balances the sharpness of peppermint.
- Festive Touch: The addition of crushed candy canes not only adds flavor but also a delightful crunch and a striking visual appeal.
- Easy Recipe: Simple steps ensure even beginner bakers can create this festive treat.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for cookie swaps or as gifts during the holiday season.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Enjoyed by everyone, these cookies are suitable for various dietary preferences.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start baking your White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Here’s what you will need to successfully create these festive delights:
- Tools: A mixing bowl, a whisk, a stand mixer or hand mixer, measuring cups, measuring spoons, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper are essential. A cookie scoop can also be helpful for portioning dough evenly, ensuring consistent cookie sizes.
- Prep Your Space: Make sure your baking area is clean and organized. Gather all your ingredients before you start so that you won’t have to scramble for them mid-recipe.
- Oven Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because a well-preheated oven leads to better baking results.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the cookies to bake evenly and acquire that perfect golden edge. While your oven warms, line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This combination of dry ingredients is crucial as it ensures the cookies rise properly and have the right texture.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter along with the granulated and light brown sugars using an electric mixer. Mix until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, which is vital for achieving soft, chewy cookies.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Extracts
Add the eggs to the creamed butter mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is well combined before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. The peppermint extract will give your cookies that delightful holiday flavor, while vanilla adds depth to the sweetness.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies!
Step 6: Add Mix-ins
Fold in the white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes using a spatula or wooden spoon. This step brings in the festive elements that transform ordinary cookies into holiday delights!
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
After removing the cookies from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This cooling time allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
- Vegetables: A unique twist can include grated zucchini or carrots to add moisture and nutrients without altering the flavor significantly.
- Spices: Introduce some cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth and depth of flavor, creating a spiced version of your candy cane cookies.
Cooking Notes
- For softer cookies, take them out of the oven when they are still slightly underbaked; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for best results. It should be soft but not melted.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
- They also make excellent gifts when packaged in a decorative tin or bag for friends and family.
Tips
- Keep your crushed candy canes in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin to break them into smaller pieces; it’s easier and less messy!
- These cookies can be frozen! Make a double batch and freeze the dough in balls or bake them and freeze the finished cookies to enjoy later.
- Experiment with flavored extracts—like almond or coconut—to switch up the flavor profile!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 100mg
FAQs
Can I use white chocolate bars instead of chips?
Yes, you can chop white chocolate bars into chunks before folding them into your dough for a different texture!
How do I store these cookies properly?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.
What can I substitute for peppermint extract?
If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can replace it with additional vanilla extract for a vanilla version.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and still achieve delicious results!
Conclusion
Your holiday baking wouldn’t be complete without these scrumptious White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies. With their festive appearance and delightful flavor, they’re sure to please everyone who tries them. Not only are they simple to make, but they also bring a wonderful sense of joy and kindness, perfect for sharing. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven, cooled completely, or gifted to friends and family, they’ll be a trait of goodwill as you celebrate the season. Don’t forget to experiment with variations that make this recipe your own, and be sure to share your experiences in the comments. Happy baking!
Print
White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Your holiday baking wouldn’t be complete without these scrumptious White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies. With their festive appearance and delightful flavor, they’re sure to please everyone who tries them.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the cookies to bake evenly and acquire that perfect golden edge. While your oven warms, line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This combination of dry ingredients is crucial as it ensures the cookies rise properly and have the right texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter along with the granulated and light brown sugars using an electric mixer. Mix until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, which is vital for achieving soft, chewy cookies.
- Add the eggs to the creamed butter mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is well combined before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. The peppermint extract will give your cookies that delightful holiday flavor, while vanilla adds depth to the sweetness.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies!
- Fold in the white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes using a spatula or wooden spoon. This step brings in the festive elements that transform ordinary cookies into holiday delights!
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
- After removing the cookies from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This cooling time allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For softer cookies, take them out of the oven when they are still slightly underbaked; they will continue to firm up as they cool. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for best results. It should be soft but not melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Protein: 1 g