Vegan Candy Cane Sugar Cookies

Name: Vegan Candy Cane Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: ½ cup vegan butter; ½ cup + 2 tablespoons sugar (½ cup for dough, 2 tablespoons for rolling); 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water); 1 teaspoon peppermint extract/paste; 1 cup + 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted vegan butter); 5 tablespoons crushed peppermint candy

By:

Thomas

Published:

November 22, 2025

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The perfect holiday treat is just around the corner—Vegan Candy Cane Sugar Cookies! If you’re looking for a festive dessert to brighten up your gatherings, these cookies are just the ticket. They have a rich, buttery flavor, combined with the refreshing zest of peppermint. Plus, they’re vegan, so they cater to various dietary preferences without compromising on taste. Picture this: soft, chewy cookies adorned with crunchy peppermint bits, melting in your mouth while filling the air with comforting holiday aromas. Doesn’t that sound delightful? Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to indulge yourself, these cookies are simple enough for any novice yet impressive enough to wow your guests. So, put on your apron, and let’s make these scrumptious Vegan Candy Cane Sugar Cookies together!

Why This Recipe Works

The perfect balance of soft and chewy textures makes these Vegan Candy Cane Sugar Cookies a delight to enjoy. Using a combination of vegan butter and a flax egg not only makes them suitable for those avoiding animal products but also ensures they remain rich and flavorful. The addition of peppermint and crushed candy canes infuses a festive touch, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or just a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Candy Cane Sugar Cookies

These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re an experience. The delightful crunch of candy cane mingles with the soft interior of the cookie, creating a nostalgic holiday flavor that everyone will adore. Plus, they’re deceptively easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients to whip up a batch that will impress family and friends.

Ingredients

½ cup vegan butter
½ cup + 2 tablespoons sugar (½ cup for dough, 2 tablespoons for rolling)
1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water)
1 teaspoon peppermint extract/paste
1 cup + 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted vegan butter)
5 tablespoons crushed peppermint candy

How to Make Vegan Candy Cane Sugar Cookies

Cream Together Vegan Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegan butter and ½ cup of sugar. Beat together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 1 minute. The texture should be creamy and smooth.

Add Flax Egg and Peppermint Extract

Add the prepared flax egg and peppermint extract/paste to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix for an additional 10 seconds until well incorporated. This helps bind the ingredients nicely while enhancing the minty flavor.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the sifted flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt (if using). Mix gently until a smooth, thick cookie batter forms. Be careful not to overmix to avoid tough cookies; a few flour streaks are fine.

Mix in Crushed Peppermint Candies

Fold in 3 tablespoons of the crushed peppermint candies into the cookie batter evenly. Distributing these evenly ensures every bite has that delightful peppermint crunch.

Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps enhance flavor and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking. Patience pays off here!

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This way, your cookies can rise beautifully, without sticking.

Scoop and Shape the Dough

Remove the chilled dough from the fridge. Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop (about 40 grams of dough), form balls. Roll each ball in the reserved 2 tablespoons of sugar until fully coated. This adds sweetness and a sparkly finish.

Add Finishing Touch with Peppermint

Top each dough ball with a few pieces of the remaining crushed peppermint candies, pressing them gently into the dough. This not only looks pretty but also reinforces that peppermint flavor.

Bake the Cookies

Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced at least 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-13 minutes until the bottoms are lightly browned and the centers are slightly soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool.

Cool and Serve

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately tap it on the counter for that classic “wrinkly” look. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these festive delights!

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Vegan Candy Cane Sugar Cookies with a glass of almond milk or hot chocolate. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream for a delightful dessert. The flavors harmonize flawlessly, creating a perfect treat.

Tips for Success

Ensure your vegan butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. Warm butter mixes in better, creating a lighter texture.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s essential for the right texture. This small wait makes a big difference.
Tap the baking sheet immediately after removing the cookies to enhance their texture. This creates that perfect cookie shape, with slightly crisp edges.

Variations

Try adding different mix-ins like dark chocolate chips or crushed nuts for a unique twist on these classic cookies. A dash of cinnamon or vanilla can also elevate the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can experiment with coconut sugar or maple syrup; however, the texture may change slightly. Each sweetener brings a unique flavor.

2. How do I store leftover cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or in the fridge for longer freshness. Keeping them sealed helps maintain that delightful chewiness.

3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop and roll, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag. When you’re ready, just bake directly from frozen!

4. Are these cookies gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour for gluten-free cookies. This way, everyone can enjoy them!

5. Can I make these without the crushed candy canes?
Yes, the cookies will still be delicious even without the peppermint, but you can use other mix-ins to maintain flavor. Consider trying almond slivers for a nutty crunch.

These Vegan Candy Cane Sugar Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday spread, combining a festive spirit with indulge-worthy sweetness. Share them with loved ones or keep them all for yourself—the choice is yours, but they’re bound to bring joy either way! Enjoy the process of cooking and the warm, comforting vibes that come with this classic recipe.