Why Make This Recipe
Candy Cane Blossoms are a delightful twist on the classic cookie. With their festive colors and the sweet taste of peppermint, these cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering. They add a cheerful touch to your dessert table and are loved by both kids and adults alike.
Making Candy Cane Blossoms is simple and fun. The combination of a soft cookie with a chocolate candy kiss on top makes them unique. They are not only easy to bake but also enjoyable to decorate. This recipe is great for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or just for a fun family baking day.
Equipment Needed for Candy Cane Blossoms
To make Candy Cane Blossoms, you will need some basic kitchen tools.
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- An electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper (optional)
- A wire rack for cooling
- A whisk
These tools help make the baking process smooth and enjoyable. Having everything ready before you start will also make it easier to follow the recipe.
What You Need to Make Candy Cane Blossoms
To create these festive cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 bag Hershey’s candy cane kisses, unwrapped
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- 2 cups flour
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp milk
- Red and green colored sugar
These ingredients can be found at your local grocery store. Make sure to follow the measurements closely for the best results.
How to Cook Candy Cane Blossoms Step by Step
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats, unwrap the candy cane kisses, making sure you have about 35 candies ready to use later.
Next, take a baking sheet and spray it lightly with non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper if you prefer.
In a small bowl, take the flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the softened butter, sugar, vanilla extract, milk, and egg. Beat these ingredients on medium speed until the mixture becomes well blended and creamy. This should take about 2 minutes.
Once blended, gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. It’s essential to do this slowly. Beat well after each addition until the dough is fully combined. You want to ensure there are no dry pockets of flour remaining in the batter.
After you have your dough ready, it’s time to shape it. Take a small amount of dough and roll it into a ball, about 1 inch across. Once shaped, roll each ball in the red and/or green colored sugar. This adds a festive touch and extra sweetness.
Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between them.
Now, bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to turn lightly brown while the center remains soft. Once ready, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for 2 to 3 minutes.
While the cookies are still warm, gently press a candy cane kiss into the center of each cookie. The warmth will slightly melt the chocolate and create a delicious topping.
Finally, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential as it helps the cookies firm up and makes them easier to handle.
How to Make Candy Cane Blossoms
Making Candy Cane Blossoms is a straightforward process. Start by gathering all your ingredients and equipment to ensure you have everything within reach.
The key to these cookies is combining the right amounts of butter and sugar to create a soft and sweet dough. Don’t rush through the steps; taking your time will ensure the best outcome.
Always preheat the oven before starting your baking. It ensures an even cook for the cookies. Pay attention to the baking time; under or over-baking can change the texture of the cookies.
When adding the candy kisses, be gentle to avoid breaking them. This candy is central to the cookie’s flavor profile, so it is vital to handle them with care.
How to Serve Candy Cane Blossoms
Candy Cane Blossoms are best served fresh but can be enjoyed at any time. To serve, place the cookies on a festive plate.
You can create a beautiful centerpiece by arranging them with other holiday treats. Adding some holiday decorations like a small candle or ornaments around the plate can enhance the presentation.
These cookies also make excellent gifts. Consider placing them in a decorative tin or a clear bag tied with a ribbon.
When serving at parties, consider offering a variety of cookies by including some traditional favorites alongside the Candy Cane Blossoms. This allows guests to enjoy a mix of flavors while highlighting the unique peppermint taste of these cookies.
What to Serve with Candy Cane Blossoms
Candy Cane Blossoms pair wonderfully with various beverages. Hot chocolate is a classic choice, especially during the winter months. The chocolate kiss complements the rich flavors of the hot drink.
Coffee is another great option. Whether you like it black or with cream, the bitter notes of coffee balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
For a festive touch, consider serving them with eggnog or a spiced chai. These drinks enhance the holiday spirit and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
If you are hosting a dessert table, include a mix of other holiday treats, such as gingerbread cookies, sugar cookies, or peppermint bark. Having a variety creates a festive experience for everyone.
How to Store Candy Cane Blossoms
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of Candy Cane Blossoms. After the cookies have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container.
Store them at room temperature for up to one week. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to avoid air exposure, which can make the cookies stale.
If you plan on keeping them longer, you can freeze them. Simply layer the cookies in an airtight container with sheets of parchment paper between each layer. They can be frozen for up to three months.
To thaw frozen cookies, simply take them out and let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. Avoid microwaving them, as this can cause uneven heating and change the texture.
Tips to Make Candy Cane Blossoms
To ensure the best outcome with your Candy Cane Blossoms, keep these tips in mind.
Start with softened butter; this helps create a smooth dough easily. If you forget to take the butter out of the fridge in time, you can soften it in the microwave for about 10 seconds.
When rolling the dough balls, try to make them as uniform in size as possible. This ensures even baking and makes for a professional-looking cookie.
If you like your cookies softer, you can bake them for a shorter time. If you prefer crunchier cookies, leave them in a minute or two longer.
Experiment with different types of kisses as well; dark chocolate or caramel-filled kisses can offer a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Variation
While the traditional recipe is delightful, there are several variations to consider. For a peanut butter touch, you can substitute some of the butter for creamy peanut butter. This adds a nutty flavor that complements the sweet candy even more.
You can also mix in crushed peppermint candies into the dough for an added crunchy texture. This variation bursts with minty freshness in every bite.
For those who love a richer chocolate flavor, use chocolate cookie dough instead of vanilla. The candy cane kisses will pop against the darker cookie base.
Feel free to experiment with toppings as well. A drizzle of white chocolate over the cooled cookies can add elegance and extra sweetness.
Best Time to Make Candy Cane Blossoms
Candy Cane Blossoms are ideal for the holiday season, particularly around Christmas. The bright colors and minty flavor fit perfectly with festive celebrations.
They make excellent treats for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or family gatherings. Plus, baking these cookies can be a fun activity to share with loved ones.
If you want to get ahead of the busy holiday season, consider making them early and freezing them. This way, you can have a batch ready to go for any occasion.
You can also make these cookies for Valentine’s Day or other special events by simply changing the colored sugar to match the occasion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Candy Cane Blossoms come out perfectly, steer clear of these common mistakes.
One common issue is overmixing the dough. While you want everything to blend well, mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
Another mistake is not measuring the ingredients carefully. Baking is a science, and slight variations in flour or sugar can affect the final product. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
Lastly, avoid baking the cookies for too long. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time. If you let them brown too much, they could become too crispy rather than soft and chewy.
Nutritional Notes
Candy Cane Blossoms are a sweet treat meant to be enjoyed in moderation due to their sugar content. Each cookie contains ingredients that contribute to its sweet and comforting flavor.
While they do include butter and sugar, they also provide a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Pairing them with a glass of milk can offer a small boost of calcium and protein.
For those watching their sugar intake, consider scaling down the amount of sugar in the dough or altering the portion sizes.
FAQs
Can I use other flavored kisses for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other flavors of kisses, such as caramel or dark chocolate. Each will give a unique twist to your cookies.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps solidify the fats and reduces spreading.
Conclusion
Candy Cane Blossoms are a fun and festive treat that encapsulates the spirit of the holiday season. Their combination of a soft cookie base and a creamy peppermint kiss on top makes them irresistibly tasty.
The recipe is simple enough for beginners but enjoyable for experienced bakers, making it a perfect family activity. Whether for gatherings or as gifts, these cookies are sure to please.
So gather your ingredients and start baking! Enjoy the delightful aroma of peppermint and chocolate filling your home with holiday cheer.
