Name: Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 3/4 cup Powdered Sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Crushed Candy Canes; 1/2 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (optional); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar

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As I sat curled up with a cozy blanket, the scent of butter and peppermint wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a winter wonderland. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies, an easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for holiday baking, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner. These delicate cookies melt in your mouth, offering a delightful crunch from the crushed candy canes that adds a festive twist. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings, but their light and airy texture makes them a joyful indulgence for cozy evenings at home. So, are you ready to fill your kitchen with the spirit of the season and whip up something truly special? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Make?

Melt-in-your-mouth bliss: Each bite of these Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies offers a delightfully buttery texture that simply melts in your mouth.

Festive flair: The vibrant crunch of candy canes not only enhances the flavor but also makes them visually appealing, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Beginner-friendly: With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, even novice bakers will find success with this easy recipe.

Crowd-pleaser: These cookies are sure to impress friends and family, making them a delightful addition to any holiday platter.

Make-ahead option: Prepare them in advance and freeze for unexpected guests or festive gatherings, ensuring you always have a treat ready to go.

In need of more inspiration? Check out my delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies for another tasty holiday treat!

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Creamy richness is key; use unsalted to maintain control over the saltiness.
Powdered Sugar – Provides a silky sweetness and helps achieve that delightful whipped texture.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses warmth and depth into the cookie, enhancing the peppermint notes beautifully.
All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of your cookies, helping to create a tender crumb for ultimate melt-in-your-mouth bliss.
Salt – Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness, allowing the mint and vanilla to shine through.
Crushed Candy Canes – The star ingredient that gives these cookies their festive crunch and signature peppermint flavor.
Peppermint Extract (Optional) – Boosts the minty punch; feel free to omit for a milder taste.

For Coating

Granulated Sugar – Rolling the dough balls in this sugar creates a luscious, crisp exterior after baking.

These Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies are not just a treat; they’re an experience, perfect for transforming your holiday festivities into a memorable culinary adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which will help prevent sticking. This setup is crucial for baking your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies evenly. Make sure to have your mixing bowl and a hand or stand mixer ready for the next steps.

Step 2: Cream the Butter
In your mixing bowl, place the softened unsalted butter. Beat the butter on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it turns light and fluffy, reaching a pale yellow color. This process is essential as it creates the airy texture that makes your cookies melt in your mouth.

Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar
Gradually mix in the powdered sugar into the whipped butter. Continue to beat on low speed until the mixture is fully combined and fluffy. This step helps to incorporate sweetness without losing the lightness you’ve achieved with your whipped butter, adding to the texture of your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies.

Step 4: Flavor it Up
Next, add the vanilla extract along with the optional peppermint extract to the bowl. Mix the ingredients until they are fully incorporated. The vanilla enriches the flavor profile, while the peppermint adds that festive holiday zing, making your cookies truly memorable.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour and salt together. This combination will create a balanced mix that adds structure to your dough. Once mixed, slowly add this dry mixture to the buttery mixture, stirring on low speed just until everything is combined, ensuring you don’t overmix.

Step 6: Fold in the Candy Canes
Gently fold in the crushed candy canes with a spatula, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step introduces the signature crunch and vibrant flavor to your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies, making them festive and delicious.

Step 7: Portion the Dough
Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll each piece into a smooth ball. Roll these balls in granulated sugar to coat them, which will create a delightful crisp exterior once baked, enhancing the overall experience of each bite of your cookies.

Step 8: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place the coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing is important to allow the cookies to spread while baking. Each little ball will transform into a beautiful Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookie as it bakes.

Step 9: Flatten the Cookies
Using the bottom of a glass or your fingertips, gently flatten each dough ball slightly. This step helps achieve an even bake and allows the cookies to spread properly in the oven, resulting in that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden color. The centers may still appear soft, which is ideal since they will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking—they should look tender and inviting!

Step 11: Cool and Transfer
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set slightly. Then, using a spatula, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their delicate texture.

Step 12: Optional Garnish
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle additional crushed candy canes on top of the cookies while they’re still warm. This garnish not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the minty flavor, making your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies even more delightful!

What to Serve with Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

These charming cookies are not just a delightful standalone treat; they can become the centerpiece of your holiday spread when paired with the right accompaniments.

Rich Hot Chocolate: Perfectly creamy and indulgent, a cup of hot chocolate complements the minty freshness of the cookies, creating a cozy dessert experience.
Peppermint Bark: For a crunchy, candy-filled delight, serve pieces of peppermint bark alongside your cookies. The chocolatey richness enhances the peppermint flavor beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts the crispy cookie texture and adds a delightful chill that takes this treat to the next level.
Christmas Fruit Salad: A bright, fruity salad made with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the sweet richness of the cookies, making for a vibrant dessert platter.
Mulled Wine: The aromatic spices in mulled wine pair perfectly with the peppermint notes, creating a festive drink option that warms the heart and spirit.
Decorative Dessert Platter: Arrange cookies alongside other holiday treats, like gingerbread or sugar cookies, for a festive visual spread that invites guests to indulge.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or spiced tea enhances the experience of savoring these cookies, making the flavors more vibrant while providing a comforting contrast.

Mix and match these suggestions to elevate your holiday gatherings and create heartwarming memories around the table!

How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, store cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they are in a tightly sealed container to avoid drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to restore their freshness.
Reheating: To revive any leftover cookies, briefly warm them in the microwave for 5-10 seconds. This will soften them up, keeping the delightful texture intact.

Make Ahead Options

These Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies are a dream for busy bakers looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead by covering it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the cookies remain fresh and delicious. For even longer storage, roll the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply bake from frozen for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just remember to allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain that melt-in-your-mouth quality. Enjoy the convenience and keep your holiday baking stress-free!

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies Variations

Feel free to tweak these delightful cookies to perfectly cater to your taste buds and creativity!

Chocolate Dipped: Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for an indulgent twist that adds richness. This variation is perfect for the chocolate lovers in your life!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour to make these cookies gluten-free and just as delightful.
Minty Chocolate: Add mini chocolate chips along with the crushed candy canes for a deliciously minty chocolate surprise in every bite. The combination is a true holiday favorite!
Nutty Crunch: Stir in some finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for an additional layer of crunch and flavor. The nutty aroma brings a warm feel that’s hard to resist.
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright flavor contrast that beautifully complements the peppermint. It’s a refreshing touch loved by many!
Alternative Sweetener: Substitute powdered sugar with coconut sugar or maple sugar for a different sweetness that adds depth and a unique flavor profile. It’s a fun way to experiment in the kitchen!
Sprinkle of Spice: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy note that makes these cookies taste even more festive. The spices create an inviting aroma that fills the kitchen!

If you’re looking for more cookie inspiration, why not explore my delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies? The possibilities are endless, and each variation can become a cherished new tradition!

Expert Tips for Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming. Cold butter will result in dense cookies instead of a light texture.
Mixing Technique: Beat the butter and sugar just until fluffy; overmixing the dough after adding flour can lead to tough cookies, so mix until just combined.
Candy Cane Distribution: Gently fold in crushed candy canes to avoid breaking them down into dust. You want those delightful crunchy bits intact in your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies!
Baking Precision: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden at the edges. Overbaking can dry them out, ruining the melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them. This helps them set and prevents breakage during the transfer.

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best candy canes for this recipe?
When choosing candy canes, look for vibrant colors with no dark spots or cracks, which indicate freshness. The more vibrant the color, the more visually appealing your cookies will be! Avoid any that feel sticky; this means they may have started to degrade.

What’s the best way to store my cookies?
Absolutely! Store your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer, they can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks—just ensure they’re tightly sealed to prevent drying.

Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll maintain their delicious flavor for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature until soft.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If you find your dough is crumbly and not holding together, don’t worry! This can happen if there’s too much flour or if the butter wasn’t mixed well. Try adding a teaspoon of softened butter to the mixture and mix until it comes together. If it’s still too dry, a little splash of milk or water can help bind it without compromising the texture.

Are these cookies safe for pets or those with allergies?
While Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat for humans, they aren’t safe for pets, especially due to the sugar and potential chocolate you might add as a garnish. Additionally, if you’re baking for someone with allergies, always check your ingredients—especially for gluten in flour and potential allergens in candy canes!

How long can I keep these cookies before they go stale?
For optimal freshness, enjoy your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies within 1 week when stored at room temperature. If you store them in the fridge, they will last up to 2 weeks. However, for the best quality, try to consume them within the first week, as they are simply irresistible fresh!