25 Candy Cane Desserts That Feel Like Christmas

Introduction
Get ready to sweeten your holiday season with these candy cane-inspired desserts! From creamy peppermint cheesecakes to crunchy candy cane bark, this list of 25 festive treats brings the joy of Christmas to every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or cozying up by the fire, these recipes are packed with peppermint cheer. Grab your apron and let’s make some holiday magic!

1. Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies

These buttery cookies combine the classic crunch of sugar cookies with a bold peppermint twist, perfect for holiday gifting or cookie swaps. Their iconic candy cane shape makes them a festive favorite, and the crushed peppermint topping adds a delightful texture. Bake a batch to share the Christmas spirit!

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Red food coloring
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Add egg, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Divide dough in half. Tint one half with red food coloring.
6. Roll 1 tsp of each dough color into 4-inch ropes. Twist together to form a candy cane shape.
7. Place on baking sheets and bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are set.
8. Sprinkle warm cookies with crushed candy canes. Cool on wire racks.

How to Serve It
Serve these cookies on a festive platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect. Pair with hot cocoa or mulled cider for a cozy treat. Wrap in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for charming holiday gifts. Store in an airtight container to keep them crisp for up to a week.

2. Candy Cane Chocolate Bark

This rich chocolate bark blends the deep flavor of dark chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint, creating an easy yet stunning holiday treat. Its vibrant look and snap of candy cane pieces make it a crowd-pleaser for parties or gifting.

Ingredients

• 12 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• 8 oz white chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup crushed candy canes
• 1 tsp peppermint extract

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
3. Stir in peppermint extract and spread evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Melt white chocolate similarly and drizzle over the dark chocolate layer.
5. Sprinkle crushed candy canes evenly over the top.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until set.
7. Break into pieces with a knife or by hand.

How to Serve It
Present this bark in a decorative tin or on a holiday-themed platter for a striking display. Serve alongside coffee or eggnog at your Christmas gathering. Package in clear bags with a festive bow for a thoughtful homemade gift. Store in a cool place to maintain its crisp texture.

3. Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes

These decadent cupcakes marry the bold flavors of mocha and peppermint, creating a festive dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. The moist chocolate base and creamy frosting make every bite a celebration of Christmas cheer.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners.
2. Whisk flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
3. In another bowl, mix coffee, oil, vanilla, and vinegar.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
5. Fill muffin cups ⅔ full and bake for 18–20 minutes. Cool completely.
6. Beat butter, powdered sugar, cream, and peppermint extract until fluffy.
7. Pipe frosting onto cupcakes and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.

How to Serve It
Arrange these cupcakes on a tiered stand for a festive centerpiece. Garnish with extra candy cane pieces or chocolate shavings for flair. Serve with a warm mocha or peppermint tea to enhance the flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

4. Candy Cane Cheesecake

This velvety cheesecake blends rich cream cheese with a refreshing peppermint swirl, making it a showstopping dessert for holiday dinners. Its festive appearance and cool, creamy texture will wow your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• Red food coloring
• ½ cup crushed candy canes
• 1 cup whipped cream

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Mix graham crumbs and melted butter; press into pan base.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
4. Divide batter in half. Add peppermint extract and red food coloring to one half.
5. Swirl both batters into the crust. Bake for 50–55 minutes until set.
6. Cool for 1 hour, then chill for 4 hours.
7. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes before serving.

How to Serve It
Slice this cheesecake thinly and serve on chilled plates for a refreshing treat. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of peppermint for extra flair. Pair with a glass of sparkling cider for a festive touch. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

5. Peppermint Candy Cane Truffles

These bite-sized truffles offer a creamy chocolate center with a burst of peppermint, perfect for holiday gifting or dessert platters. Their elegant look and rich flavor make them irresistible.

Ingredients

• 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes
• ½ cup cocoa powder

Instructions

1. Heat cream in a small saucepan until simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate.
2. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add peppermint extract.
3. Chill mixture for 2 hours until firm.
4. Scoop into 1-inch balls using a melon baller or spoon.
5. Roll in cocoa powder, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
6. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve It
Present truffles in decorative liners on a festive tray for a sophisticated touch. Serve with coffee or hot toddies at your holiday party. Package in a small gift box with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

6. Candy Cane Meringue Kisses

These airy meringues melt in your mouth with a subtle peppermint flavor, making them a light and festive treat for holiday gatherings. Their charming swirls add a whimsical touch to any dessert table.

Ingredients

• 4 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ tsp cream of tartar
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• Red food coloring

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 200°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
4. Fold in peppermint extract. Divide meringue in half and tint one half red.
5. Pipe swirls using a star tip into 1-inch kisses, alternating colors.
6. Bake for 1.5 hours until dry. Turn off oven and let cool inside for 1 hour.

How to Serve It
Arrange these meringues in a glass jar or on a tiered stand for a delicate display. Serve with hot tea or mulled wine for a light holiday treat. Package in cellophane bags for charming party favors. Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness.

7. Peppermint Candy Cane Ice Cream

This homemade ice cream blends creamy vanilla with bursts of peppermint, creating a refreshing dessert that captures the essence of winter. It’s perfect for holiday movie nights or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ½ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Whisk cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, and peppermint extract until sugar dissolves.
2. Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (about 25–30 minutes).
3. During the last 5 minutes, add crushed candy canes through the opening.
4. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for 2 hours for a firmer texture.

How to Serve It
Scoop into chilled bowls or waffle cones for a festive presentation. Top with extra crushed candy canes or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Serve alongside warm brownies for a delightful contrast. Store in the freezer, covered, for up to a month.

8. Candy Cane Hot Chocolate Bombs

These hot chocolate bombs burst with peppermint flavor when dropped into warm milk, creating a cozy and interactive holiday drink. They’re perfect for gifting or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

• 8 oz milk chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup hot cocoa mix
• ½ cup mini marshmallows
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes
• 1 tsp peppermint extract

Instructions

1. Melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
2. Brush chocolate into silicone sphere molds, creating a thin layer. Chill for 10 minutes.
3. Carefully remove chocolate shells from molds.
4. Fill half the shells with 1 tbsp cocoa mix, a pinch of candy canes, and marshmallows.
5. Brush edges with melted chocolate and press another shell to seal.
6. Drizzle with more chocolate and sprinkle with candy canes. Chill for 10 minutes.

How to Serve It
Place a bomb in a mug and pour hot milk over it for a fun reveal. Garnish with whipped cream and extra candy cane pieces. Gift in festive boxes for a delightful holiday surprise. Store in a cool, dry place for up to a month.

9. Candy Cane Sugar Scrub

This edible sugar scrub doubles as a festive dessert topping or a sweet holiday gift, blending the crunch of candy canes with a sugary base. It’s a unique addition to your holiday spread.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup coconut oil, melted
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes
• Red food coloring

Instructions

1. Mix sugar and melted coconut oil in a bowl until combined.
2. Stir in peppermint extract.
3. Divide mixture in half. Tint one half with red food coloring.
4. Layer red and white mixtures in a jar, swirling slightly with a spoon.
5. Top with crushed candy canes. Seal the jar.

How to Serve It
Spoon this scrub over ice cream or yogurt for a sweet, crunchy topping. Package in small jars with festive labels for a thoughtful holiday gift. Serve as a dessert garnish at your Christmas party. Store in a cool place for up to a month.

10. Peppermint Candy Cane Pie

This no-bake pie combines a silky peppermint filling with a rich chocolate crust, creating a refreshing yet indulgent dessert for your Christmas table. It’s easy to make and always impresses.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ½ cup crushed candy canes
• 1 cup whipped cream

Instructions

1. Mix cookie crumbs and melted butter; press into a 9-inch pie dish. Chill for 30 minutes.
2. Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks and fold into cream cheese mixture with peppermint extract.
4. Fold in half the crushed candy canes. Spread into crust.
5. Chill for 4 hours. Top with whipped cream and remaining candy canes before serving.

How to Serve It
Slice this pie into wedges and serve chilled for a cool, festive treat. Garnish with extra whipped cream and a sprinkle of candy cane dust. Pair with a warm drink like chai or hot chocolate. Store in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days.

11. Candy Cane Fudge

This melt-in-your-mouth fudge combines rich white chocolate with a burst of peppermint, making it a perfect holiday treat for sharing or gifting. Its creamy texture is irresistible.

Ingredients

• 2 cups white chocolate chips
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes
• Red food coloring

Instructions

1. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt white chocolate and condensed milk in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract.
4. Divide mixture in half. Tint one half with red food coloring.
5. Pour into pan, swirling red and white mixtures. Sprinkle with candy canes.
6. Chill for 2 hours until set. Cut into squares.

How to Serve It
Arrange fudge squares on a festive tray for a sweet holiday display. Serve with coffee or tea at your Christmas gathering. Package in small tins for a heartfelt gift. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

12. Peppermint Candy Cane Macarons

These elegant macarons combine crisp shells with a creamy peppermint filling, offering a sophisticated twist on holiday flavors. Perfect for impressing guests or gifting.

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 ¾ cups powdered sugar
• 3 large egg whites
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• Red food coloring
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Sift almond flour and 1 ¾ cups powdered sugar together.
3. Beat egg whites until foamy, then gradually add granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in almond mixture. Divide batter and tint half red.
5. Pipe 1-inch rounds onto baking sheets. Rest for 30 minutes.
6. Bake for 15–18 minutes. Cool completely.
7. Beat butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, and peppermint extract for filling. Pipe onto half the shells, sprinkle with candy canes, and sandwich.

How to Serve It
Display macarons on a tiered stand for a stunning holiday dessert table. Serve with champagne or hot tea for a festive touch. Package in elegant boxes for a luxurious gift. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

13. Candy Cane Shortbread Bars

These buttery shortbread bars are topped with white chocolate and peppermint, creating a rich yet refreshing treat that’s perfect for holiday cookie trays.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• 8 oz white chocolate, chopped
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Beat butter and powdered sugar until creamy.
3. Add flour and salt, mixing until crumbly dough forms.
4. Press into pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
5. Melt white chocolate and spread over shortbread. Sprinkle with candy canes.
6. Chill for 30 minutes, then cut into bars.

How to Serve It
Serve these bars on a festive platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect. Pair with hot cocoa or mulled wine for a cozy treat. Package in cellophane bags for holiday gifting. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

14. Peppermint Candy Cane Milkshake

This creamy milkshake blends vanilla ice cream with a peppermint kick, creating a fun and festive drink for holiday celebrations or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• Red food coloring
• ½ cup whipped cream
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Blend ice cream, milk, peppermint extract, and a drop of red food coloring until smooth.
2. Pour into chilled glasses.
3. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.

How to Serve It
Serve in tall glasses with festive straws for a playful holiday treat. Garnish with extra whipped cream and a candy cane stick for stirring. Pair with cookies for a fun dessert combo. Serve immediately for the best texture.

15. Candy Cane Brownie Bites

These rich brownie bites are topped with a cool peppermint frosting, making them a perfect bite-sized treat for holiday parties or gifting.

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a mini muffin tin.
2. Mix melted butter, sugar, and eggs until smooth.
3. Add flour, cocoa, and salt; stir until combined.
4. Spoon into muffin tin and bake for 10–12 minutes. Cool completely.
5. Beat powdered sugar, butter, and peppermint extract until fluffy.
6. Pipe frosting onto brownies and sprinkle with candy canes.

How to Serve It
Arrange brownie bites on a festive tray for a pop of holiday cheer. Serve with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat. Package in small boxes for a delightful gift. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

16. Peppermint Candy Cane Tart

This creamy tart combines a buttery crust with a smooth peppermint filling, creating an elegant dessert for your Christmas dinner. Its vibrant look is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• Red food coloring
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9-inch tart pan.
2. Blend flour, butter, and powdered sugar until crumbly. Add egg yolk to form dough.
3. Press into tart pan and bake for 12–15 minutes. Cool completely.
4. Beat cream cheese, condensed milk, and peppermint extract until smooth.
5. Divide filling, tint half red, and swirl into crust.
6. Chill for 2 hours. Top with crushed candy canes before serving.

How to Serve It
Slice this tart thinly and serve on chilled plates for a refreshing dessert. Garnish with whipped cream or fresh mint leaves for extra flair. Pair with a glass of sparkling wine for a festive touch. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

17. Candy Cane Popcorn

This sweet and salty popcorn mix is tossed with white chocolate and peppermint, making it a perfect snack for holiday movie marathons or gifting.

Ingredients

• 8 cups popped popcorn
• 8 oz white chocolate, chopped
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Spread popcorn on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Melt white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
3. Stir in peppermint extract and drizzle over popcorn.
4. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes and toss to coat.
5. Let set for 30 minutes at room temperature.

How to Serve It
Serve in a large festive bowl for a fun, shareable snack. Pair with hot cocoa for a cozy movie night treat. Package in cellophane bags with a ribbon for a festive gift. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

18. Peppermint Candy Cane Donuts

These baked donuts are infused with peppermint and topped with a sweet glaze, creating a festive breakfast or dessert for Christmas morning.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a donut pan.
2. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. Mix milk, eggs, butter, and peppermint extract in another bowl.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
5. Pipe batter into donut pan and bake for 10–12 minutes. Cool completely.
6. Mix powdered sugar and milk for glaze. Dip donuts and sprinkle with candy canes.

How to Serve It
Serve these donuts warm on a festive platter for a holiday breakfast. Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy start to the day. Drizzle with extra glaze for added sweetness. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

19. Candy Cane Marshmallows

These homemade marshmallows are infused with peppermint and swirled for a festive look, perfect for hot cocoa or holiday gifting.

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp unflavored gelatin
• 1 cup cold water, divided
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup corn syrup
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• Red food coloring
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and dust with powdered sugar.
2. Mix gelatin and ½ cup water in a stand mixer bowl. Let sit.
3. Heat sugar, corn syrup, and remaining ½ cup water to 240°F (soft-ball stage).
4. Slowly pour into gelatin, beating on high until thick, about 10 minutes.
5. Add peppermint extract. Divide mixture, tint half red, and swirl into pan.
6. Sprinkle with candy canes. Let set for 4 hours. Cut and dust with powdered sugar.

How to Serve It
Float these marshmallows in hot cocoa for a festive twist. Serve on a platter with other holiday sweets for a dessert spread. Package in clear bags for a charming gift. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

20. Peppermint Candy Cane Scones

These tender scones blend buttery richness with a peppermint crunch, making them a perfect addition to your Christmas brunch or tea time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes
• 4 oz white chocolate, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in cream and peppermint extract until dough forms. Fold in candy canes.
5. Pat into a 1-inch thick round and cut into 8 wedges.
6. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden. Drizzle with melted white chocolate.

How to Serve It
Serve these scones warm with clotted cream or butter for a festive brunch. Pair with tea or coffee for a cozy treat. Drizzle with extra chocolate for added sweetness. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

21. Candy Cane Chocolate Mousse

This silky mousse combines rich chocolate with a hint of peppermint, creating a light yet decadent dessert for your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 cups heavy cream, divided
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Melt chocolate with ½ cup cream in a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Cool slightly.
2. Whip remaining 1 ½ cups cream with sugar and peppermint extract to soft peaks.
3. Fold whipped cream into chocolate until smooth.
4. Spoon into glasses and chill for 2 hours.
5. Top with extra whipped cream and crushed candy canes before serving.

How to Serve It
Serve this mousse in elegant glassware for a sophisticated holiday dessert. Garnish with a mint sprig or extra candy cane pieces for flair. Pair with a glass of red wine or coffee. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.

22. Peppermint Candy Cane Bread Pudding

This comforting bread pudding is infused with peppermint and topped with a sweet glaze, making it a cozy dessert for cold Christmas nights.

Ingredients

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes
• 4 oz white chocolate, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Place bread cubes in the dish.
3. Whisk milk, sugar, eggs, and peppermint extract. Pour over bread.
4. Sprinkle with half the candy canes. Bake for 35–40 minutes until set.
5. Drizzle with melted white chocolate and remaining candy canes.

How to Serve It
Serve warm in bowls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy treat. Drizzle with extra chocolate sauce for richness. Pair with hot cider for a festive touch. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

23. Candy Cane Thumbprint Cookies

These buttery cookies feature a rich peppermint ganache center, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors for your holiday cookie tray.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• 4 oz white chocolate, chopped
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Beat butter and sugar until creamy. Add flour and salt, mixing until dough forms.
3. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheets. Press a thumbprint into each.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
5. Heat cream and pour over white chocolate. Stir in peppermint extract.
6. Spoon ganache into cookie indents and sprinkle with candy canes.

How to Serve It
Arrange these cookies on a festive platter for a stunning holiday display. Serve with hot tea or coffee for a cozy treat. Package in tins for a thoughtful gift. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

24. Peppermint Candy Cane Parfaits

These layered parfaits combine creamy peppermint mousse with crunchy chocolate crumbs, creating a festive and elegant dessert for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes
• ½ cup whipped cream

Instructions

1. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and peppermint extract to stiff peaks.
2. Layer cookie crumbs, peppermint mousse, and crushed candy canes in four glasses.
3. Repeat layers until glasses are filled.
4. Top with whipped cream and extra candy canes.
5. Chill for 1 hour before serving.

How to Serve It
Serve these parfaits in clear glasses to showcase the festive layers. Garnish with a candy cane stick or mint sprig for extra charm. Pair with a light dessert wine or coffee. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.

25. Candy Cane Rice Krispie Treats

These chewy treats blend classic Rice Krispie goodness with a peppermint twist, making them a fun and easy dessert for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 6 cups mini marshmallows
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• Red food coloring
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch pan.
2. Melt butter and marshmallows in a large pot over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Stir in peppermint extract. Divide mixture and tint half red.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cereal. Swirl red and white mixtures.
5. Press into pan and sprinkle with candy canes.
6. Cool for 30 minutes, then cut into squares.

How to Serve It
Serve these treats on a festive platter for a playful holiday dessert. Pair with milk or hot cocoa for a fun treat. Package in cellophane bags for a kid-friendly gift. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Conclusion
These 25 candy cane desserts are sure to fill your holiday season with sweetness and joy! From cookies to cheesecakes, there’s something here for every festive occasion. Try a few recipes, share them with loved ones, or save this list for your next Christmas party. Which one will you make first? Happy baking and happy holidays!