👉Candy Cane Chocolate Chip Cookies

🍪 Candy Cane Chocolate Chip Cookies

Celebrate the holidays with a sweet twist on a classic! These Candy Cane Chocolate Chip Cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with rich chocolate chips and cool peppermint crunch. Perfect for cookie exchanges, festive parties, or just a cozy night in with a mug of cocoa.

🧾 Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup crushed candy canes

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2️⃣ Cream the Butter & Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3️⃣ Add Eggs & Vanilla
Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

4️⃣ Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

5️⃣ Mix in the Goodies
Gently fold in chocolate chips and crushed candy canes.

6️⃣ Scoop & Bake
Drop spoonfuls of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons) onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.

7️⃣ Cool & Enjoy
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

🍫 Nutrition Information (per cookie, makes ~36)

Calories: 190
Fat: 9g
Carbs: 26g
Sugar: 17g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 1g

❓ 20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use peppermint extract instead of candy canes?
Yes! Add ½ teaspoon to the dough for extra peppermint flavor.
Will candy canes melt in the oven?
Yes, slightly — they’ll create a gooey peppermint swirl effect.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
Do I need to chill the dough?
It’s optional, but chilling for 30 minutes can help prevent spreading.
Can I use white chocolate chips instead?
Absolutely! They pair beautifully with peppermint.
How do I crush the candy canes?
Place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, scoop into balls and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yep — they freeze well for up to 2 months.
What kind of chocolate chips work best?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips balance the sweetness perfectly.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is preferred for flavor and texture, but margarine can work.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough and use parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Why are my cookies hard?
Likely overbaked — pull them out when edges are just golden.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Are these cookies too sweet?
The crushed candy canes do add sweetness — reduce sugar slightly if desired.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it doubles perfectly for parties or gifting.
Can I shape the dough into balls before baking?
Yes — it helps with even baking and a rounder cookie.
Can I add nuts?
Sure! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add crunch.
Do I need to line the baking sheet?
Yes — parchment paper or silicone mats work best for easy release.
How do I store them?
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Can I use crushed peppermint bark instead of candy canes?
Yes, but it will be richer and more chocolaty.