White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

These White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful treat for the holiday season. With their soft and chewy texture, these cookies are perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights in. The combination of white chocolate and crushed candy canes not only makes them visually appealing but also adds a unique flavor that captures the essence of Christmas. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply to indulge yourself, this cookie recipe will bring joy to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor: The blend of white chocolate and peppermint creates a delightful taste that screams holiday cheer.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe perfect even for novice bakers.
• Perfect Texture: These cookies are soft and chewy, providing a satisfying bite every time.
• Great for Gifting: Pack them in a decorative box to share with friends or family as a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later; they taste great either way!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cookie-making experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars, ensuring fluffy dough.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet while making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

These white chocolate candy cane cookies are the perfect holiday chocolate chip cookie recipe. They’re soft, chewy, filled with Christmas cheer & super pretty!

• 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
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup crushed candy canes
• 1 cup white chocolate chips (plus more for dotting on the tops)

How to Make White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, shortening, white sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. This should take about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Extracts and Eggs

Mix in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Then add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Lower the mixer speed and mix in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. If the dough feels sticky when squeezed between fingers, gradually add more flour by the tablespoon until it reaches the right consistency.

Step 5: Mix in Candy Canes and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the crushed candy canes and white chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Form Cookie Dough Balls

Scoop about 1 – 1.5 tablespoons of dough to form balls and place them on lined cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for 8–10 minutes or until the tops appear just set. Optional: After removing from the oven, dot each cookie with a few extra white chocolate chips for added decoration.

Step 8: Cool Cookies

Let cookies cool on the cookie sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delicious treats!

How to Serve White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

These delightful white chocolate candy cane cookies can be enjoyed in various creative ways. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic combination. The milk complements the sweetness perfectly.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter adorned with holiday decorations. This makes for an eye-catching centerpiece at parties or family gatherings.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Take two cookies and sandwich a scoop of peppermint or vanilla ice cream between them for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress.

Dipped in Hot Cocoa

• Enjoy the cookies by dipping them into your favorite hot cocoa. The warmth enhances the flavors and adds a cozy touch.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Package these cookies in decorative boxes or bags as homemade gifts. They make wonderful presents during the holiday season.

How to Perfect White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

To ensure your white chocolate candy cane cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. A few adjustments can greatly enhance their taste and texture.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing, which leads to fluffier cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can result in tougher cookies.

• Chill the dough: If you have time, refrigerate the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape and enhances flavor.

• Watch baking time closely: Remove the cookies from the oven when they look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up on the baking sheet.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add additional crushed candy canes or white chocolate chips on top before baking for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

While these cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with side dishes can create a delightful holiday spread. Here are some excellent options:

1. Peppermint Bark: A festive treat made from layers of chocolate topped with crushed peppermint candies—perfect for sharing alongside the cookies.

2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich sweetness of the cookies, balancing out flavors.

3. Cheese Platter: Include various cheeses like brie or gouda paired with dried fruits and nuts. The savory elements work nicely against sweet desserts.

4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts coated in warm spices offer a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft cookies while adding a hint of warmth.

5. Gingerbread Cake: A slice of moist gingerbread cake brings comforting spice flavors that complement the peppermint in your cookie recipe beautifully.

6. Hot Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider infused with spices as an inviting beverage option that enhances the holiday spirit while enjoying your treats.

7. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruit, marshmallows, or even cookie pieces into warm chocolate for added decadence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking cookies can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to perfecting your white chocolate candy cane cookies.

• Skipping the creaming process: Properly beating the butter and sugars creates a fluffy texture. Don’t rush this step; take about 2 minutes for the best results.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft, chewy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients. This ensures consistency and perfect results every time.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven. Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cookie spread and texture.
• Not chilling the dough (if needed): If your dough feels too sticky, consider chilling it in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain shape and enhances flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for a few minutes to warm through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people love making white chocolate candy cane cookies during the holiday season. Here are some common questions and answers.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes! You can substitute white chocolate chips with dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make white chocolate candy cane cookies gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What if I can’t find candy canes?

You can crush peppermint candies as an alternative to candy canes. They will give a similar minty flavor and festive look.

Can I add nuts to my cookie dough?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans would complement the flavors nicely. Just be sure to adjust the amount of crushed candy canes accordingly.

How do I store leftover cookie dough?

You can refrigerate unused cookie dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

These white chocolate candy cane cookies are not only festive but also versatile. With their soft, chewy texture and delightful flavor, they are sure to impress friends and family alike. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins or tweaking flavors like vanilla or almond extract. Enjoy making these delicious treats!