The holidays always seem to find us with an abundance of candy canes. We hang them on the tree or decorate presents with them, but what can be done with them once Christmas is over? Here is a sweet suggestion:
Candy Cane Butter Cookie Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of butter or butter flavor margarine, softened
- ½ cup Confectioner’s sugar
- ½ tsp. salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups unbleached flour
- 1 cup finely crushed candy canes, about 6 large
Directions:
- Crush candy canes. I use a plastic bag and rolling pin and pound them into very small pieces.
- Cream butter and sugar until well blended.
- Add remaining ingredients and mix well.
- Chill for about ½ hour.
- Shape into small balls, about the size of a walnut, place on cookie sheet sprayed lightly with Pam.
- Press down with palm of hand to flatten.
- Bake at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes until light brown.
- Cool about 1 minute, not more, on cookie sheet, then remove.
Alternatives:
The cookies may be shaped into “candy canes” and then flattened. You may also add food coloring to tint the cookies red. If candy canes are not available, crushed mints may be substituted.
Legend of the Candy Cane
Several versions of the candy cane story have made their way into print and have been told in churches and Christian schools. Each of them connect various symbols with the treat.
The shape is both the letter “J” for Jesus and a shepherd’s crook for his role as the Good Shepherd. It also is a reminder of the shepherds who heard the angels’ announcement and came to Bethlehem to visit the manger.
The white candy is for Christ’s purity and the red stripes for the blood he shed for our salvation. Traditionally there are three small stripes, possibly representing the Trinity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and one larger one. Various accounts make reference to the scourging of Jesus as he is led to Calvary and the nails placed in his hands and feet.
The sweetness of the candy reminds us of God’s love, which brings good news to our lives.
Here is a little poem which has been written to help children remember the meanings:
Christmas Candy Cane Poem about Jesus
Look at the Candy Cane
What do you see?
Stripes that are red
Like the blood shed for me
White is for my Savior
Who’s sinless and pure!
“J” is for Jesus My Lord, that’s for sure!
Turn it around
And a staff you will see
Jesus my shepherd
Was born for Me!
More Uses for Candy Canes
Candy canes make great stirrers for hot drinks. Add to coffee, cocoa, or hot chocolate for a holiday taste. They also have found their way into mixed drinks and there is even a Peppermint Martini that uses candy canes as a garnish!
Ethel Brodie - Intrigued by the world, encouraged to write my observations, published in newspapers and magazines, and sharing special places.
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