White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to spread some holiday cheer, these White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies are just what you need! They’re soft, chewy, and bursting with the festive flavors of peppermint and creamy white chocolate. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making them perfect for family gatherings, cookie exchanges, or even cozy nights in with a cup of hot cocoa. This recipe has been a favorite in my home for years, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Whether you’re baking with the kids or whipping up a batch for friends, these cookies will bring smiles all around. So let’s get started on this sweet adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, these cookies come together quickly. Perfect for busy bakers!
• Festive flavors: The combination of peppermint and white chocolate creates a holiday treat that everyone will love.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore these cookies. They’re great for sharing and enjoying together.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it for later baking—ideal for unexpected guests!
• Stunning presentation: These cookies not only taste delicious but also look beautiful on any dessert platter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how simple and wholesome the ingredients are for these White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies. Gather these goodies for a delightful baking experience:

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1 cup white sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 large eggs

For the Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Mix-Ins

• 3/4 cup crushed candy canes
• 1 cup white chocolate chips (plus more for dotting on the tops)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to customize your White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies:

• Try different extracts: Substitute almond or vanilla extract for a unique twist on flavor.
• Add nuts: Include chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and richness.
• Use dark chocolate chips: Swap white chocolate chips with semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a deeper flavor.
• Make them gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly right from the start. While it heats up, line your cookie sheets with parchment paper—this will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cream Together the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, shortening, white sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy—about two minutes should do it! This step is crucial because it incorporates air into your mixture, giving your cookies that delightful soft texture.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Extracts and Eggs

Next, mix in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Then add your eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. The extracts bring out those festive flavors that make these cookies so special!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Turn your mixer down to low speed and gently mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined. If you find that the dough sticks to your fingers when squeezed together, add more flour—one tablespoon at a time—until you reach the right consistency.

Step 5: Fold in Candy Canes and Chocolate Chips

Now comes the fun part! Stir in the crushed candy canes and white chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds those lovely bursts of color and flavor that make each bite magical.

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Form small balls of dough about 1 – 1.5 tablespoons in size and place them two inches apart on your lined cookie sheets. Giving them space allows them to spread beautifully while they bake!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes or until they look just set on top. To make them extra special, remove them from the oven and dot a few extra white chocolate chips on top while they’re still warm.

Step 8: Cool Down

Let your cookies cool on the sheet for about ten minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain their chewy texture while allowing those flavors to settle beautifully.

Now you’re ready to enjoy some festive White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

Baking these festive cookies can be a delightful experience, and a few pro tips will ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter, which leads to soft, chewy cookies.
• Chill the dough if time allows: If you let the dough sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking, it will help the flavors meld together and improve the cookie’s texture.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should look just set on top; they will continue to firm up while cooling.
• Experiment with crushed candy canes: For an extra festive touch, consider using different sizes of crushed candy canes—larger pieces add crunch and a pop of color!
• Store properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps them soft and fresh!

How to Serve White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

Presenting your White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies can elevate your holiday gatherings. Here are some creative ideas to make them shine!

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of crushed candy canes: A light dusting of extra crushed candy canes on top adds a beautiful pop of color and enhances the peppermint flavor.
• Drizzle of white chocolate: Melt some white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an elegant touch that looks as delightful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

• Hot Cocoa: A warm mug of hot cocoa pairs perfectly with these cookies, enhancing the holiday spirit with every sip.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds refreshing contrast to the rich cookies, balancing out sweetness while keeping things festive.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses with some crackers offers a savory option that complements the sweetness of the cookies nicely.
• Holiday Punch: A non-alcoholic holiday punch infused with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg provides a refreshing beverage option that brings everyone together.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance your cookie experience but also create a festive atmosphere perfect for any gathering! Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful treats!

Make Ahead and Storage

These White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy festive treats throughout the holiday season without the last-minute rush.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For optimal freshness, place parchment paper between layers of cookies.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Enjoy them within 3 months for the best taste.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes.
• For microwave reheating, warm individual cookies for 10-15 seconds until just soft.

FAQs

Got questions about these delightful White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies? Here are some common queries!

Can I use other types of chocolate instead of white chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can substitute milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even mint-flavored chips for a fun twist. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly.

How do I make my White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies softer?

To achieve an even softer texture, ensure you do not overbake them. Remove the cookies from the oven when they look just set; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I add nuts to my White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies?

Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch. Just be sure to adjust the amount of crushed candy canes accordingly so that the flavors balance well.

How do I prevent my cookie dough from sticking?

If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until it reaches a manageable consistency. This will help you form perfect cookie balls without mess.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and warmth to your holiday gatherings. These White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies are not just delicious; they’re also a wonderful way to spread cheer among family and friends. Enjoy baking these treats, and don’t forget to share them with loved ones! Happy holidays!