Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious are a festive treat perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. These cookies combine the delightful crunch of shortbread with the refreshing flavor of candy canes, making them a unique addition to your dessert table. With their appealing look and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are sure to impress guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious treats.
• Festive Flavor – The combination of buttery shortbread and peppermint makes these cookies a holiday favorite.
• Versatile Treat – Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or as a sweet gift.
• Beautiful Presentation – The colorful crushed candy canes on top create an eye-catching finish that looks great on any dessert platter.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl – A large mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly.
• Electric mixer – This tool saves time and ensures that your butter is whipped perfectly for a light texture.
• Baking sheet – A good-quality baking sheet ensures even baking for your cookies.
• Cooling rack – Allowing your cookies to cool properly on a rack prevents them from becoming soggy.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract

For the Topping

• 1 cup crushed candy canes

How to Make Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Extracts

Add the vanilla extract and peppermint extract to the butter mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie as they will spread slightly during baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 8: Add Candy Canes

Remove cookies from the oven and immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while they are still warm. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Enjoy these delightful Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies at your next holiday gathering!

How to Serve Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious

Serving Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies is a delightful way to share the holiday spirit. They make a perfect addition to any festive gathering or cozy night in.

On a Decorative Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter for an eye-catching display. You can use a mix of different sizes and shapes for added visual interest.

With Hot Cocoa

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa. The peppermint flavor complements the rich chocolate beautifully, creating a cozy treat.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with festive ribbons. This makes for charming party favors that guests will love.

Alongside Fresh Fruit

• Serve with slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or oranges. The refreshing taste of fruit balances the sweetness of the cookies.

In Cookie Gift Boxes

• Create gift boxes filled with these cookies along with other holiday treats. It’s a thoughtful way to spread cheer during the season.

How to Perfect Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious

To achieve the best Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies, consider these tips for perfecting your baking process.

• Chill Your Dough: Allow the cookie dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps in maintaining their shape while baking.
• Use Fresh Peppermint: For an intense peppermint flavor, crush fresh candy canes just before using them. This ensures maximum freshness in every bite.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of delicate shortbread.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them when they are lightly golden for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies pair well with various side dishes, adding variety to your dessert table. Here are some great options:

1. Peppermint Bark: A rich blend of chocolate and peppermint, this classic treat complements the flavors of shortbread beautifully.
2. Cream Cheese Mints: These sweet, creamy bites offer a refreshing minty flavor that pairs perfectly with the cookies’ sweetness.
3. Mini Fruit Tarts: Bright and colorful mini tarts filled with custard and topped with fresh fruit provide a light contrast to the cookies.
4. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: Sweet and salty, these pretzels add crunch and flavor that balances well with the soft texture of shortbread.
5. Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spiced or candied nuts can add a savory element to your dessert table, enhancing the overall experience.
6. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer creamy indulgence that pairs deliciously with peppermint flavors without being overly sweet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies even better.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape. Make sure to refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients are key to delicious cookies. Always check that your butter and baking powder are fresh.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a light and tender texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Precision in measurements is crucial. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure accuracy.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 months when properly stored.

Reheating Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on low power for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies.

Can I use different flavors of candy canes?

Yes! You can try various flavors of candy canes to switch up the recipe.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend works well in this recipe.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips pair beautifully with the peppermint flavor of these cookies.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, they can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies are not only easy but also bring delightful flavors perfect for any holiday gathering. Feel free to customize them with different extracts or toppings, making them uniquely yours!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the festive spirit with our Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies, a delightful treat that combines the classic buttery crunch of shortbread with the refreshing flavor of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home, these cookies will become a staple on your dessert table. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant crushed candy cane topping not only make them visually appealing but will also impress family and guests alike. Easy to prepare, even novice bakers can whip up these delightful cookies, making them an essential addition to your holiday baking repertoire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 cup crushed candy canes

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar using an electric mixer until fluffy (2-3 minutes).
4. Add vanilla and peppermint extracts, mixing until combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt; gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet with space in between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes on warm cookies, then cool on a rack.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
• Calories: 100
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 25mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg