Candy Cane Crinkles

The perfect peppermint cookie for the winter season that just melt in your mouth!

Every year, the kids and I choose a cookie recipe off my cookie board on Pinterest to make for Santa. Even though my big kids are of the "knowing age", they still love this tradition and are really excited to continue it with their little brother who will have his first big Christmas where he understands what is going on other than just presents. I think we're going to have his first visit to Santa which will be really exciting.

I'm not sure what cookie we will make this year, but last year, these Candy Cane Crinkles were the chosen cookie for Santa. They are buttery and melt-in-your-mouth with the cool bite of peppermint. They don't look like anything more than sugar cookies, but they are so fantastic. Don't underestimate them! Also, I don't know if every place will carry them but I discovered crushed candy canes at my local grocery store (Kroger) this past week and I was so excited. Crushing candy canes is one of my least favorite tasks to do and I love that they now have precrushed candy canes! Perfect for cookies!

(Print)
What you need:

• 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 egg
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. baking powder
• 1/8 tsp. baking soda
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Directions:

1. In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add vanilla and egg and mix again, scraping sides.
3. Add all dry ingredients except powdered sugar slowly while mixing until just combined. 
4. Stir in crushed candy canes.
5. Place powdered sugar onto a plate.
6. Take the dough and roll into balls by the tablespoon. Then roll into powdered sugar.
7. Place on a parchment paper or silicone mat lined baking sheet.
8. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 9 to 11 minutes until the bottoms barely brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let cook for 3 minutes on pan before moving to a wire rack.

Recipe from Lauren's Latest

Santa's got his cookies, but don't forget about the reindeer who just love this Reindeer Food recipe. I have that on good authority. I cannot get over how gorgeous these little White Chocolate Peppermint Shortbread Cookies from Oh Sweet Basil are. Definitely the perfect cookie to pack up for a treat for friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, etc.