Name: Peppermint-kissed Swirl of vanilla and red cookie dough Candy Cane Cookies
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 52 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon peppermint extract; Red gel food coloring; Peppermint candies or mini candy cane kisses, for topping

Hey y'all! Are you searching for a treat that's as eye-catching as it is delicious? These Peppermint-kissed Swirl of vanilla and red cookie dough Candy Cane Cookies are buttery, tender, and bursting with festive peppermint flavor, making them a delightful addition to any holiday party, cookie swap, or cozy family evening. The gorgeous red and white swirls will brighten up any dessert table and have everyone reaching for seconds. Let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Peppermint-kissed Swirl of vanilla and red cookie dough Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

The vibrant candy cane twists are both visually stunning and irresistibly tasty.
Buttery vanilla dough combined with a cool peppermint kiss delivers holiday magic in every bite.
Perfect for gifting, holiday cookie trays, or making memories while baking with kids.
Easy step-by-step instructions for a stress-free, fun baking experience.
The soft, chewy texture makes these cookies truly unforgettable!

Ingredients for Peppermint-kissed Swirl of vanilla and red cookie dough Candy Cane Cookies

2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
Red gel food coloring
⅓ cup (65g) crushed peppermint candies (optional for garnish)

Directions: Making Peppermint-kissed Swirl of vanilla and red cookie dough Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Doughs

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, just until dough comes together.
Divide dough in half. Leave one half plain (vanilla). In the other half, knead in red gel food coloring until desired shade is reached.
Wrap each portion in plastic and chill for 45 minutes.

Step 2: Shape & Swirl

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
For each cookie, roll a 1-teaspoon piece of vanilla dough and a 1-teaspoon piece of red dough into 4-inch ropes. Gently twist the ropes together, then curve one end to form the candy cane shape. Place on prepared sheets 2 inches apart.

Step 3: Bake

Bake for 10-12 minutes, until set but not browned. The cookies should look slightly underbaked—don't overbake for soft texture!
(Optional) While still warm, gently sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes for Perfect Peppermint-kissed Swirl of vanilla and red cookie dough Candy Cane Cookies

Use room temperature butter for the fluffiest cookies.
Roll the ropes evenly for uniform candy canes that bake consistently.
Crushed peppermint topping is optional, but adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor.

Variations: Fun with Candy Cane Cookies

Chocolate Peppermint Swirl: Add 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder to half the dough instead of food coloring for a chocolatey twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour for all-purpose flour.
Sparkle Canes: Roll shaped cookies in colored sanding sugar before baking for extra shimmer.

Equipment Needed for Peppermint-kissed Swirl of vanilla and red cookie dough Candy Cane Cookies

Hand or stand mixer
Medium and large mixing bowls
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons
Plastic wrap
Wire rack

Storage Instructions for Candy Cane Cookies

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving Recommendations for Peppermint-kissed Cookie Dough Candy Cane Cookies

Pair these cookies with a steaming mug of hot cocoa or peppermint mocha.
Serve as a sweet centerpiece on a holiday dessert bar.
Gift in clear bags tied with ribbon for a cheerful homemade present!

Pro Tips for the Best Peppermint-kissed Swirl of vanilla and red cookie dough Candy Cane Cookies

Chill your dough to prevent spreading and help maintain that signature swirl (more on why chilling matters).
Shape one candy cane at a time to keep the dough soft and easy to work with.
Use gel, not liquid, food coloring to avoid altering the dough's texture.

FAQs: All About Peppermint-kissed Swirl of vanilla and red cookie dough Candy Cane Cookies

Can I make the dough ahead of time?: Absolutely! You can make the dough up to 48 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Let it soften for 10-15 minutes before shaping.
Can the candy cane cookies be frozen?: Yes, both the dough and baked cookies freeze well. Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.
Do I have to use peppermint extract?: Nope! Swap it with more vanilla for a classic sugar cookie flavor if you prefer.

Prep Time: 25 min | Chill Time: 45 min | Cook Time: 12 min | Total Time: ~1h 25min

Peppermint-kissed Swirl of vanilla and red cookie dough Candy Cane Cookies