Irresistible Mini Candy Cane Crunch Cookies: Your Go-To Low-Point Holiday Treat
There’s an undeniable magic that candy canes bring to the holiday season. I’m wholeheartedly one of those people who buys candy canes not just for decorating the tree or gifting, but to lovingly stash them away in my cupboard, savoring their crisp, refreshing flavor long after Christmas Day. They offer a simple, joyful indulgence, much like a classic lollipop, and when enjoyed slowly, they can make for a wonderful, low-point nighttime treat. It’s this very affection for peppermint that makes me eagerly embrace any holiday baked good featuring candy canes. And let me tell you, these Mini Candy Cane Crunch Cookies are an absolute triumph! With the comforting, familiar taste of a classic sugar cookie, these soft and delightfully chewy treats explode with vibrant candy cane flavor in every single bite. The best part? You can enjoy two of these scrumptious cookies for just 1 Weight Watchers Point Plus (on the old program) or a single cookie for 1 SmartPoint (on current programs). It’s truly a festive indulgence without the guilt!
As the holiday season unfolds, a time often marked by abundant feasts and sugary temptations, maintaining personal wellness goals can feel like a challenge. That’s where these Mini Candy Cane Crunch Cookies shine as a brilliant beacon of smart indulgence. They allow you to participate fully in the festive spirit of baking and enjoying treats, all while staying aligned with your healthy eating journey. Imagine attending a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home with a cup of cocoa, and having a delicious, homemade cookie that fits perfectly into your daily points budget. These cookies aren’t just low in points; they are packed with incredible flavor and a delightful texture that makes them feel utterly decadent. Their small size makes portion control effortless, ensuring that you can enjoy a sweet moment without overdoing it. They are the perfect embodiment of festive joy and mindful eating, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice taste for health, especially during the most wonderful time of the year.
The Delight of Peppermint in Every Bite
The combination of classic sugar cookie dough with the invigorating crunch of peppermint candy canes creates a flavor profile that is both nostalgic and exciting. The sweetness of the cookie base is perfectly complemented by the cool, refreshing burst of mint, making each bite a truly memorable experience. These mini cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Their small size makes them perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday party platters, or simply a quick treat throughout the day. The vibrant red and white flecks of candy cane add a beautiful visual appeal, making them as lovely to look at as they are delicious to eat. They truly embody the spirit of Christmas in a delightful, bite-sized package.
Mini Candy Cane Crunch Cookies
Ingredients
- 2.5 Tbsp calories reduced margarine (using a calorie-reduced version helps keep the points low without sacrificing texture)
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 2 Tbsp egg whites, I typically use carton egg whites for convenience and consistency, ensuring a lighter cookie texture.
- 1/2 tsp pure mint extract (essential for that authentic candy cane flavor – pure extract offers the best taste!)
- 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 Tbsp crushed candy cane bits (finely crush for even distribution and flavor throughout the cookies)
- Festive Sprinkles, optional (red and white or holiday-themed sprinkles add a beautiful touch and extra festive flair!)
Instructions
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First, ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large cookie sheet by lightly spraying it with non-stick cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
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In a medium mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together your calorie-reduced margarine and white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add in the egg whites and pure mint extract, continuing to beat until everything is well combined and fragrant.
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Next, using a spoon or a rubber spatula, gradually mix in the flour and baking soda until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. Finally, gently fold in the crushed candy cane pieces, distributing them evenly throughout the dough for that perfect peppermint crunch.
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Using a teaspoon, drop small portions of the dough onto your prepared cookie sheet. Remember to keep them mini! If desired, you can sprinkle additional festive sprinkles on top of each cookie before placing them in the oven for an extra touch of holiday cheer.
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Bake for 6 to 8 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; the edges should be just lightly golden, but the centers should still be soft. Overbaking will result in dry cookies. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool on the cookie sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set and prevents breakage.
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This recipe yields approximately 42 delightful mini cookies. Each cookie is just 1 SmartPoint (SP) on all three MyWW programs, and for those on the old program, you could enjoy 2 cookies for 1 Point Plus (PP)! Enjoy these guilt-free holiday treats!
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Nutritional information (adapted from MyFitnessPal) per individual cookie: Approximately 30 Calories, 0.3g Fat (0g Saturated Fat), 6g Carbohydrates (0.1g Fiber, 4.9g Sugars), and 0.3g Protein. These values highlight how light and balanced these cookies are, making them a fantastic option for mindful holiday indulgence.
Additional Info
Tips for Baking the Perfect Mini Candy Cane Cookies
Achieving that perfect soft and chewy texture with a delightful peppermint crunch is easier than you think, especially with a few key baking tips. First and foremost, resist the urge to overmix your cookie dough. Overmixing flour develops the gluten too much, which can result in tough, dense cookies instead of the light and airy texture we’re aiming for. Mix until the ingredients are just combined. Secondly, watch your baking time carefully. Because these are mini cookies, they bake much faster than standard-sized ones. The difference of even a minute can take them from perfectly soft to disappointingly dry. Look for edges that are just barely golden, and don’t worry if the centers still look a little soft when you pull them out; they will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.
Another crucial tip is the preparation of your candy canes. For the best flavor distribution and a pleasant crunch, ensure your candy canes are finely crushed. A food processor works wonders for this, or you can place them in a Ziploc bag and gently tap with a rolling pin. Uniformly sized pieces will prevent large, hard chunks in your soft cookies. Lastly, don’t forget the optional sprinkles! Not only do they add a lovely visual pop of festive color, but they also adhere best when added to the cookie dough *before* baking. This ensures they stick well and slightly melt into the cookie, creating an even more appealing finish. Following these simple tips will guarantee a batch of holiday cookies that are not just delicious, but perfectly crafted every time.
Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations
These Mini Candy Cane Crunch Cookies are incredibly versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions throughout the holiday season. Serve them alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa or a festive peppermint mocha for a truly comforting treat. They make a fantastic addition to any holiday cookie platter, especially when arranged with other festive baked goods. Their vibrant colors and enticing aroma are sure to capture attention!
Looking to get a little more creative? While they are perfect as is, here are a few ideas to elevate your mini candy cane cookies:
- Chocolate Drizzle: After the cookies have completely cooled, melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it artfully over the top. A sprinkle of extra crushed candy cane on the wet chocolate will add even more visual appeal and flavor.
- Cookie Sandwiches: For a more decadent treat, sandwich two cookies together with a light cream cheese frosting or a swirl of peppermint buttercream in between. This would be a higher-point option but delicious for special indulgences.
- Gift Giving: Package these charming mini cookies in decorative bags or tins. They make thoughtful, homemade gifts for friends, family, and neighbors, spreading holiday cheer with a personal touch.
- Crushed Peppermint Dip: Serve them with a side of light whipped cream mixed with a touch of mint extract and a few extra candy cane bits for dipping.
Whether enjoyed simply or dressed up, these mini cookies are designed to bring joy and festive flavor to your holiday table without weighing you down.
Embracing the Holiday Spirit Through Baking
Baking during the holidays is more than just making treats; it’s a cherished tradition that fills our homes with warmth, delicious aromas, and a sense of togetherness. These Mini Candy Cane Crunch Cookies are a fantastic way to partake in this tradition, offering a simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe that even novice bakers can master. The act of crushing candy canes, mixing the dough, and seeing the cookies bake to perfection is a joyful experience in itself, setting a wonderful festive mood. Sharing these homemade cookies with loved ones becomes a gesture of care and celebration, making the holiday season even sweeter.
The beauty of a recipe like this lies in its ability to deliver classic holiday flavors in a lighter, more accessible format. It means you don’t have to choose between enjoying your favorite seasonal treats and sticking to your health goals. These cookies are a testament to the fact that mindful eating can be absolutely delicious and fun, especially during a time when food plays such a central role in celebrations. So, gather your ingredients, turn on some holiday music, and get ready to create some holiday magic in your kitchen with these irresistible mini delights!
This festive season, make sure these Mini Candy Cane Crunch Cookies find a spot on your baking list. They’re a delightful, low-point way to enjoy the classic flavors of Christmas, perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply savoring by yourself. Happy baking!