Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious are not only festive but also incredibly simple to make. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the refreshing taste of candy canes makes them a standout treat during the festive season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delightful Flavor: The blend of sweet shortbread and peppermint creates a unique flavor that everyone will love.
• Festive Appearance: Topped with crushed candy canes, these cookies are as pretty as they are delicious, making them ideal for any holiday table.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for special occasion, holiday parties, or even as gifts, these cookies will impress friends and family alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients seamlessly.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures your dough is whipped to perfection.
• Baking sheet: A quality baking sheet allows for even baking, preventing burnt edges while keeping your cookies soft inside.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes

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

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of the cookies after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion out small amounts of dough. Roll them into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake

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

Step 5: Add Toppings

While still warm from the oven, sprinkle each cookie generously with crushed candy canes. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Now enjoy your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies! They’re sure to bring joy and sweetness to any occasion!

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

Serving Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies is an opportunity to impress your guests while enjoying the festive spirit. These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any holiday gathering.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter garnished with sprigs of mint or holly for a visually stunning presentation.

With Hot Chocolate

• Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate. The peppermint flavor complements the richness of the drink perfectly.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with festive ribbons. A sweet treat like this makes a wonderful takeaway gift for guests.

At Cookie Exchanges

• These cookies are ideal for cookie exchanges. Their unique flavor will stand out among traditional offerings, making them a memorable addition.

As Dessert for Holiday Dinners

• Present these cookies as part of your dessert spread during holiday dinners, ensuring that everyone has a delightful treat to enjoy after the meal.

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

Creating the perfect Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out great every time.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their texture.
• Use Fresh Peppermint: Opt for fresh crushed candy canes instead of pre-packaged ones. This adds vibrant flavor and color to your cookies.
• Beat Well: Ensure you beat the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Proper creaming creates a tender and airy cookie.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven. They should be slightly golden around the edges but remain soft in the center when done.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow your cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before packaging or serving. This helps them set properly.

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

Pairing side dishes with Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies can enhance your holiday spread. Here are some delightful suggestions that complement these festive treats.

1. Peppermint Bark: A delicious blend of dark and white chocolate layered with crushed candy canes adds extra peppermint flair.
2. Spiced Nuts: A mix of roasted nuts coated in spices provides a savory balance to the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pomegranate and citrus can brighten up your dessert table.
4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers, offering guests both sweet and savory options.
5. Gingerbread Cake: A slice of moist gingerbread cake serves as a warm, spiced complement to your cool shortbread.
6. Hot Apple Cider: Serve hot apple cider spiced with cinnamon sticks; it’s fragrant and pairs beautifully with sweet treats.
7. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruits or leftover cookies into rich melted chocolate.
8. Mini Cheesecakes: Individual mini cheesecakes topped with peppermint cream add an elegant touch to your cookie spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect cookies.

• Skipping the Chilling Step – Not chilling the dough can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Using Old Baking Powder – Expired baking powder can lead to flat cookies. Check the expiration date and use fresh ingredients for the best results.
• Overmixing the Dough – Overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of tender. Mix just until combined to keep them light and airy.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately – Inaccurate measurements can affect cookie texture and taste. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate readings.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to one week.

Freezing Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a container.
• Store for up to three months in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a pan over low heat, flipping once until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies | Easy and Delicious unique?

These cookies combine the classic shortbread texture with refreshing peppermint flavor, making them perfect for the holidays.

Can I customize my Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors like vanilla or almond extract, or incorporate chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden, but the centers may still look soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Are there any alternatives to candy canes?

Yes! You can use crushed peppermint candies or even sprinkle on festive colored sugar for decoration.

Final Thoughts

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies are not only easy and delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings. Don’t hesitate; try this delightful recipe today!

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Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

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

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Description

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies are the perfect festive treat for your holiday celebrations. These delightful cookies are simple to make, featuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a refreshing peppermint flavor that will charm everyone at your gathering. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up these cookies in no time, making them an ideal choice for cookie exchanges or festive get-togethers. Topped with crushed candy canes, they offer a beautiful presentation and are sure to bring joy with every bite. Enjoy them alongside a warm cup of cocoa or package them as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, salt, and vanilla extract; mix until just combined.
4. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to portion out small amounts of dough, rolling them into balls and placing them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden on the edges.
6. While warm, sprinkle each cookie generously with crushed candy canes and let cool before transferring to a cooling 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: 40mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg