There’s something magical about holiday treats that bring a smile to everyone’s face. Our Crescent Roll Candy Cane recipe combines the flaky, buttery goodness of crescent rolls with festive flavors that capture the spirit of the season. It’s a fun and simple way to add a creative twist to your holiday baking.
Ingredients
To create our delicious Crescent Roll Candy Cane, we gather simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to make festive treats. Here’s what we need for this easy holiday recipe:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough, for flaky, buttery layers
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, to brush and add richness
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar, for sweetness
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, to infuse warm holiday spice
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting or optional icing drizzle
- 2 tablespoons milk, to mix with powdered sugar for glaze (optional)
- Red food coloring (optional), to create the classic candy cane stripes
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, to deepen flavor
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated crescent roll dough | 1 can (8 oz) | Base dough for candy canes |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Adds richness and helps toppings stick |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | Sweetens and caramelizes |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Adds warm holiday spice |
| Powdered sugar | 1/2 cup | For dusting or glaze |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons | Mix with powdered sugar for glaze |
| Red food coloring | Optional | Creates festive red stripes |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor |
Tip: Using pre-made crescent roll dough saves us time while ensuring the perfect flaky texture essential for these charming candy canes.
Next, we move on to preparing the dough and layering the cinnamon sugar mixture to build our festive Crescent Roll Candy Cane shape.
Tools and Equipment
To make our Crescent Roll Candy Cane Recipe come to life with ease and precision, gathering the right Tools and Equipment is essential. Each item we use ensures our candy canes have the perfect shape, texture, and festive appeal.
Essential Tools List
- Baking sheet – for even heat distribution and a crisp golden crust
- Parchment paper – to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup
- Mixing bowl – for combining the cinnamon sugar and glaze ingredients
- Measuring spoons and cups – to guarantee accurate ingredient portions
- Small whisk or fork – for smooth glaze mixing
- Pastry brush – to spread melted butter evenly over the dough
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – to cut the crescent roll dough into strips
- Tweezers or tongs (optional) – for handling delicate candy cane shapes
- Cooling rack – to allow the baked candy canes to cool without sogginess
Recommended Equipment Specifications
| Tool | Recommended Size/Type | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Baking sheet | Standard 9×13 inches or larger | Ensures enough space for shaping and baking candy canes |
| Parchment paper | Full sheet | Prevents sticking and promotes even baking |
| Mixing bowl | Medium (about 2 quarts) | Sufficient for mixing butter, sugar, and glaze |
| Pastry brush | Silicone or natural bristle | For even butter application without tearing the dough |
| Sharp knife or pizza cutter | Thin, sharp blade | Easy clean cuts for consistent dough strips |
Additional Tips
“Using a silicone spatula can also help scrape all the cinnamon sugar mixture from the bowl, ensuring nothing goes to waste.”
Handle the dough gently with your hands or tweezers to maintain the candy cane shape and avoid tearing.
With these tools at hand, we set ourselves up for a smooth, enjoyable baking experience that brings out the best in our Crescent Roll Candy Cane Recipe.
Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough
To create our Crescent Roll Candy Cane, preparing the crescent roll dough correctly is essential. We will guide you through thawing, rolling, and cutting the dough to ensure perfect flaky layers and the iconic candy cane shape.
Thawing the Dough
Begin by removing the refrigerated crescent roll dough from the packaging. For best results:
- Place the dough on the countertop.
- Let it thaw at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Avoid overheating to prevent the dough from becoming too sticky or tearing.
“Patience during thawing helps keep the dough pliable and easy to work with, preserving its flaky texture.“
| Step | Action | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remove dough | From package | Immediate | Handle gently |
| Thaw | On countertop | 15-20 minutes | Do not over-soften |
| Prepare surface | Lightly flour surface | Before rolling | Prevents sticking |
Rolling and Cutting the Dough
Once thawed, we move on to rolling and cutting the dough into strips for our candy cane shapes.
- Lightly flour your clean work surface to prevent sticking.
- Unroll the crescent dough into a single large rectangle without tearing any perforations.
- Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the dough evenly into 10 to 12 strips, each about 1 inch wide and 6 to 7 inches long.
- Keep the strips separated on the floured surface to avoid sticking.
“Uniform dough strips ensure consistent baking and a beautiful, even candy cane pattern.“
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| Flour surface | Light dusting to prevent sticking |
| Unroll dough | Keep whole rectangle intact |
| Cut strips | 10-12 strips, 1-inch wide, 6-7 inch long |
| Separate strips | To avoid sticking |
By carefully thawing and cutting the dough, we set the foundation for the perfect Crescent Roll Candy Cane. Next, we will focus on adding our cinnamon sugar layers and shaping them into holiday treats.
Assemble the Candy Cane Shapes
Now that we have our crescent roll dough properly prepared and cut into strips, it’s time to add the fillings and shape these strips into festive Crescent Roll Candy Canes. This step brings the classic holiday spirit to life with sweet flavors and iconic shapes.
Adding Fillings and Flavorings
We start by incorporating the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly onto each dough strip to ensure every bite bursts with delicious warmth. Follow these precise steps:
- Brush melted unsalted butter lightly over each strip using a pastry brush. This helps the sugar mixture stick and adds rich flavor.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered strips. Be sure to cover the entire surface evenly to avoid dry spots.
- Optionally, for a touch of sweetness and moisture, drizzle a few drops of vanilla extract lightly across the strips before adding sugar.
- For the iconic red stripes of a candy cane, carefully add a line of red food coloring gel using a toothpick or small brush along one edge of the dough strip.
| Ingredient | Amount per Strip | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Melted Unsalted Butter | ~1 tablespoon | Helps sugar adhere, adds richness |
| Cinnamon Sugar Mixture | ~1 tablespoon | Adds warm holiday spice |
| Vanilla Extract | Few drops | Enhances sweetness and aroma |
| Red Food Coloring Gel | Small line along edge | Creates festive red stripes |
This layering technique ensures each Crescent Roll Candy Cane delivers vibrant color and irresistible flavor.
Shaping the Candy Canes
With our dough strips prepared and flavored, the next step is transforming them into the recognizable candy cane shape:
- Starting at one end, gently twist each dough strip to combine the white dough and red cinnamon sugar side, creating a spiral effect. Use a gentle but firm motion to prevent tearing.
- Carefully curve the twisted strip at one end to form the classic hook shape of a candy cane.
- Place the shaped candy canes evenly spaced on the parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch to allow for expansion during baking.
- If desired, gently pinch the ends to secure the spiral and prevent it from unraveling.
“Perfectly twisted and curved candy canes not only look festive but bake evenly, preserving the flaky texture we love.”
By mastering these steps, we are ready to bake our Crescent Roll Candy Cane treats into golden, aromatic delights full of holiday cheer.
Baking Instructions
To achieve perfectly baked Crescent Roll Candy Canes with a golden flaky crust and a warm cinnamon aroma, precise oven temperature and baking time are critical. Let’s walk through how to bake these festive treats to perfection and cool them properly for the best texture and flavor.
Oven Temperature and Time
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the crescent roll dough bakes evenly, developing a flaky exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.
Arrange the shaped candy canes on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space between them for air circulation. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the dough turns a rich golden brown. Keep an eye on them after 10 minutes to avoid over-baking.
| Step | Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | 375°F (190°C) | – | Ensures even baking and perfect crust |
| Bake Candy Canes | 375°F (190°C) | 12 to 15 mins | Bake until golden brown and flaky |
Tip: If you want a deeper cinnamon flavor, sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar immediately after baking while the rolls are still warm.
Cooling Tips
Once out of the oven, transfer the candy canes carefully to a cooling rack. This step is crucial to prevent sogginess and to maintain the flaky texture we cherish.
- Let the candy canes cool for at least 10 minutes on the rack before serving or glazing.
- Cooling on a rack allows air circulation on all sides, preventing condensation buildup underneath.
- For a glossy finish, wait until they reach room temperature before drizzling with glaze or vanilla icing.
“Proper cooling is key to preserving the delicate flaky layers and the distinctive candy cane shape — rushing this step can lead to sticky or misshapen treats.”
By following these precise baking and cooling steps, our Crescent Roll Candy Cane recipe comes to life with beautiful texture, vibrant cinnamon notes, and irresistible holiday charm.
Decorating the Candy Canes
To complete our Crescent Roll Candy Cane recipe, decorating adds the perfect finishing touch. Let’s explore how to make our candy canes visually festive and irresistibly charming.
Icing and Sprinkles
We start by preparing a simple icing that enhances both taste and appearance. Mix 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze will give our candy canes a glossy finish and sweet flavor balance.
Once the candy canes have cooled completely on the rack, drizzle the icing over them using a spoon or a piping bag. For a festive pop, immediately sprinkle on red and green holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies while the icing is still wet. This ensures they stick perfectly.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | Sweetens and thickens icing |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons | Thins icing to drizzleable consistency |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon | Adds warm flavor |
Pro Tip: Use a toothpick to swirl the icing gently on top for delicate, wavy stripes resembling real candy canes.
Alternative Decoration Ideas
If icing isn’t your preference, we can also get creative with these decoration options:
- Colored Sugar Dusting: Sprinkle colored sanding sugar in red and white over the buttered dough strips before baking for a subtle sparkle and crunch.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle after baking for contrasting stripes.
- Edible Glitter: Add a touch of edible glitter to the icing for a magical holiday shimmer.
- Mini M&Ms: Press red and white mini M&Ms sporadically onto the wet icing for a playful look.
Using these methods, we personalize our Crescent Roll Candy Cane treats to enhance their holiday spirit while keeping the texture flaky and light.
“Decoration isn’t just about looks; it’s where flavor and festivity unite.” By thoughtfully choosing toppings, we elevate our candy canes from simple pastries to show-stopping holiday delights.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Crescent Roll Candy Cane treats, thoughtful serving elevates both presentation and flavor. Here are some creative and festive ways to serve these delightful holiday pastries.
Pair with Warm Beverages
Our flaky, cinnamon-spiced candy canes pair wonderfully with hot drinks such as:
- Spiced hot cocoa topped with whipped cream
- Classic hot apple cider
- Freshly brewed peppermint tea
Offering a warm beverage complements the sweet, buttery layers and adds cozy holiday cheer.
Arrange on a Festive Platter
For gatherings, serve the candy canes on a decorative platter. Use these tips:
- Line the platter with pine needles or holly leaves for a seasonal touch
- Add small bowls of whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or marshmallow dip for dipping options
- Space the candy canes evenly to maintain their signature shape and avoid crowding
Serve as a Festive Gift
Wrap each candy cane individually in clear cellophane tied with a red or green ribbon. Include a small tag with the recipe or holiday wishes. This creates a charming and edible gift.
Enhance with Complementary Flavors
Offer accompaniments that highlight the cinnamon sugar filling:
| Serving Idea | Flavor Profile | Presentation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Crushed peppermint | Minty, refreshing | Sprinkle over icing drizzle |
| Mini chocolate chips | Sweet and rich | Serve on the side or melted dip |
| Toasted nuts | Crunchy, nutty | Scatter around platter edges |
Serving Temperature
Serve the Crescent Roll Candy Cane at room temperature to preserve its flaky texture. If desired, warm each candy cane for 5-7 seconds in the microwave for a soft, freshly baked feel.
“Our favorite way to serve these candy canes is alongside a cup of steaming hot chocolate, creating a cozy holiday moment perfect for sharing.”
By incorporating these serving suggestions, we ensure each bite of our crescent roll candy canes is as enjoyable as it is festive.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our Crescent Roll Candy Cane treats fresh and delicious, proper storage and preparation ahead of time are essential. Here’s how we ensure every bite stays flaky and flavorful.
Storing Freshly Baked Candy Canes
- Cool Completely: Always transfer the candy canes to a cooling rack and let them cool fully to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and sogginess.
- Airtight Container: Place the cooled candy canes in an airtight container. This preserves the flaky texture and keeps them soft but not stale.
- Room Temperature Storage:
- Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Best consumed within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Refrigeration:
- If you need to keep them for longer, store in the refrigerator.
- Place candy canes in a sealed container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap.
- They will last up to 1 week, but refrigeration may slightly reduce the flakiness.
Freezing Instructions for Long-Term Storage
To extend shelf life without sacrificing quality, freezing is an excellent option.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Wrap Individually | Wrap each candy cane tightly in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. |
| Use Freezer-Safe Container | Place wrapped candy canes in a freezer bag or airtight container. |
| Label & Date | Mark the container with the freezing date for reference. |
| Storage Duration | Freeze for up to 1 month. |
| Thaw Process | Thaw at room temperature for 2-3 hours before serving. Avoid microwaving, which can damage texture. |
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead makes baking easier during the holiday rush. Here are some helpful tips to prepare our Crescent Roll Candy Cane delights ahead of time.
- Pre-cut Dough Strips: Unroll and cut the crescent dough into strips a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator tightly wrapped to prevent drying.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mix: Combine cinnamon and sugar in advance and keep in an airtight container for quick assembly.
- Shape & Freeze Before Baking: Form the candy canes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until firm—about 1 hour. Then transfer to freezer bags. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to baking time.
- Icing Preparation: Mix the icing ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature and stir before drizzling.
“Pro Tip: To maintain that perfect flaky and tender texture, avoid storing the candy canes in the refrigerator for long periods or in a damp environment.”
By following these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips, we can enjoy our festive Crescent Roll Candy Canes baked to perfection anytime during the holiday season.
Conclusion
Making Crescent Roll Candy Canes is a wonderful way to add a festive touch to your holiday baking. With simple ingredients and easy steps, these treats bring warmth and joy to any gathering.
We love how versatile this recipe is—perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with a cozy drink. By following the tips for shaping, baking, and decorating, you’ll create delightful candy canes that look as good as they taste.
Keep these treats fresh with our storage ideas, and don’t hesitate to get creative with decorations to make them uniquely yours. Let’s make this holiday season sweeter and more memorable with every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make Crescent Roll Candy Canes?
You need refrigerated crescent roll dough, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, powdered sugar, milk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
Can I use pre-made crescent roll dough for this recipe?
Yes, using pre-made dough saves time and ensures the perfect flaky texture.
How do I shape the dough into candy cane shapes?
Roll dough strips, brush with melted butter, sprinkle cinnamon sugar, then twist and curve each strip into a candy cane shape.
What temperature and time should I bake the candy canes?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden and flaky.
How should I cool the candy canes after baking?
Transfer them to a cooling rack to prevent sogginess and maintain their flaky texture.
What decoration options are suggested for these candy canes?
Use icing made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, then add sprinkles, crushed peppermint, chocolate drizzle, or edible glitter.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can pre-cut dough strips, mix cinnamon sugar ahead, or shape and freeze candy canes before baking.
How do I store Crescent Roll Candy Canes to keep them fresh?
Store cooled candy canes in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for up to one week; freeze individually wrapped for up to one month.
What are good serving suggestions for these treats?
Serve with spiced hot cocoa, hot apple cider, or peppermint tea, and consider dipping options or festive platters for gatherings.
Can I warm the candy canes before serving?
Yes, warming slightly enhances their fresh-baked flavor but serving at room temperature is also great.