Name: Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies for Holiday Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Important to use real, softened butter; not margarine.); 3/4 cup Powdered Sugar (Can substitute with granulated sugar, but better results with powdered sugar.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (No substitutions recommended for best results.); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (Essential for whip shortbread style; no direct substitute.); 1 cup Candy Canes (Can substitute with other peppermint candies.)

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As I watched the glittering snowflakes dance outside my window, I couldn’t help but crave something sweet and festive. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Easy Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies. These delightful treats combine the buttery softness of classic shortbread with the cheerful crunch of crushed candy canes, making them a must-have for any holiday gathering. Not only are they a cinch to make, but their captivating red and white speckles also turn every bite into a celebration of the season. Cozy up in your kitchen while you bake these melt-in-your-mouth cookies that will leave your friends and family smiling with joy. Curious about how to create this holiday magic? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Candy Cane Cookies So Irresistible?

Festive Flair: These Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies are the perfect way to brighten up your holiday table with their cheerful red and white color.

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Each bite melts away, delivering a soft, buttery flavor that’s enhanced by the crunchy sweetness of candy canes.

Quick to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a batch of delightful cookies in no time—perfect for busy holiday schedules!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether at a holiday party or as a delightful gift, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and joy to everyone who tries them.

Pair with Warm Beverages: Enjoy these cookies alongside a cozy cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat, or serve them with milk for the kids!

For variations, why not try using crushed peppermint bark instead? If you’re also interested in more sweet treats, check out my Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a refreshing twist!

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Butter – Provides richness and tenderness to the cookies. Important to use real, softened butter; not margarine.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to a smooth texture. Can substitute with granulated sugar, but the recipe yields better results with powdered sugar.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies. No substitutions recommended for best results.
Cornstarch – Enhances tenderness and creates a soft texture. Essential for whip shortbread style; no direct substitute.
Candy Canes – Adds festive flavor and crunch. Can use traditional red, green, and white or substitute with other peppermint candies.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to ensure your cookies don’t stick. Setting up your workspace early will make the cookie-making process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for the texture of your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies, as it incorporates air into the dough for a delicate finish.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch until well blended. Gradually add this dry mixture to your creamed butter and sugar while mixing on low speed. Mix just until fully combined and fluffy; overmixing should be avoided to keep your cookies from becoming dense.

Step 4: Fold in Candy Canes
Once your dough is well combined, gently fold in the crushed candy canes. Use a spatula to ensure the candy pieces are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This will add that fun festive flair to your Cookie batch, while the peppermint flavor will infuse every bite of the Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies.

Step 5: Form and Space the Dough
Scoop rounded teaspoonfuls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing is essential as the cookies will spread slightly while baking, ensuring they don’t merge into each other and maintain their lovely shape.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Carefully transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden at the edges while remaining pale in the center. Timing is key to achieving that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes these Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies unforgettable.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps them firm up before you transfer them to a cooling rack. Once they are set, carefully move them to the rack to cool completely, where they will reach their perfect texture.

Step 8: Store Your Cookies
Once completely cooled, store your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container. They can be kept for up to one week, retaining their delightful freshness. Make sure to savor them with your favorite warm drink, or gift them to friends for a touch of holiday cheer!

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these festive delights to suit your taste!

Peppermint Bark: Swap crushed candy canes for crushed peppermint bark to add a decadent chocolate layer.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version, although texture may vary.
Nutty Twist: Add finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an irresistible chocolatey finish.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice-infused taste.
Vegan-Friendly: Substitute butter with coconut or vegan butter, and use a powdered sugar alternative for a dairy-free option.
Chocolate Chip: Mix in mini chocolate chips along with candy canes for a fun chocolate and peppermint combination.
Crushed Cookies: Blend up leftover cookies and sprinkle the crumbs on top before serving for extra texture and flavor.

These variations are sure to bring a personal touch to your holiday baking. While you’re in the festive spirit, why not also try my mouthwatering Chocolate Chip Cookies or the refreshing Lemon Raspberry Cookies for more delightful treats?

How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, keeping them fresh and delightful.

Fridge: For a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container, where they’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Freezer: To freeze the cookies, place them in a single layer in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Dough Freezing: Portion the dough into individual cookie shapes, wrap them tightly, and freeze. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time for these Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies.

What to Serve with Easy Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

These delightful treats will bring warmth and joy to your holiday gatherings while beautifully complementing a cozy meal.

Classic Hot Cocoa: Warm, rich hot chocolate enhances the peppermint flavor of the cookies, providing a comforting drink that feels like a hug in a mug.
Milk: The simplicity of cold milk balances the sweetness of the cookies and is a nostalgic pairing for those young and young-at-heart.
Christmas Sugar Cookies: Offering a contrasting flavor, classic sugar cookies can add a fun variety to your holiday dessert table, making sharing even sweeter.
Peppermint Bark: This festive treat pairs remarkably well, echoing the candy cane theme and delivering a delightful crunch that enhances the overall flavor experience.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices of chai contrast with the buttery texture of the cookies, creating a symphony of flavors that is perfect for cool winter afternoons.
Gingerbread Men: A classic holiday cookie, they can add a spiced touch to your platter, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies.
Eggnog: A glass of creamy, spiced eggnog brings a festive twist to your treat time, enhancing the cozy holiday spirit.
Apple Cider: Serve warm or chilled, apple cider adds a refreshing and fruity note that pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery flavors of the cookies.

Expert Tips for Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Perfect Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Room temperature butter whips better for those ideal Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies.
Check Your Dough: If the dough seems too sticky, avoid the temptation to add extra sugar. Instead, a touch more flour can help achieve the right consistency.
Easy Candy Cane Crushing: Use a freezer bag to crush candy canes with a rolling pin or meat tenderizer. This method minimizes mess while ensuring great texture in your cookies.
Baking Time Watch: Watch your cookies closely in the final minutes of baking. Remove them when the edges are lightly golden to maintain that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Crop or Freeze Dough: You can freeze extra dough in individual scoops. Just bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time for fresh, warm cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies are a dream for busy home cooks, allowing for delightful holiday treats that can be prepped in advance! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply scoop the dough onto baking sheets, cover them with plastic wrap, and pop them in the fridge—this helps maintain the cookies’ quality and keeps them from spreading too much during baking. If you prefer, the shaped cookie dough can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Once baked, let them cool, store in an airtight container, and they’ll remain just as delicious for up to one week!

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of butter should I use for the Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies?
Absolutely use real, softened butter for these cookies! It provides the best richness and tenderness. Ensure it is at room temperature for about an hour before you start, as melted butter can lead to spreading and affect the texture.

How should I store my Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies?
You can store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, they can also be placed in the fridge where they will stay fresh for about two weeks. Just make sure the container is airtight to keep them from drying out!

Can I freeze the dough for Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Portion it into individual cookie shapes, wrap it tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, just pop the frozen cookie dough directly into the oven, adding a minute or two to the baking time for the Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much or become dense?
If you find your cookies spreading too thin, consider adding a bit more flour to the dough. Also, be careful not to overmix once you combine the dry ingredients with the creamed butter and sugar, as this can lead to denser cookies. Remember, you want a light and fluffy texture!

Can I use a different type of candy instead of candy canes?
Very! You can substitute candy canes with crushed peppermint bark or other flavored peppermint candies. It’s a fun twist that still gives you that festive flavor while adding a new dimension to your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies. Just keep an eye on how different candies behave in the dough.