What to Make with Candy Canes: Creative and Delicious Ideas
The holiday season is here, and with it, the iconic candy cane becomes a staple in many homes. While they’re a classic treat on their own, candy canes offer so much more than just a sweet snack. They can be used to make a variety of creative and delicious treats that are sure to impress family and friends. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to make with candy canes, from sweet treats to savory recipes and even DIY decorations.
Sweet Treats
Candy canes are a natural fit for a variety of sweet treats. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Candy Cane Marshmallow Treats
• 1 bag of large marshmallows
• 1/4 cup of melted white chocolate
• 1/4 cup of crushed candy canes
• 10-12 pretzel sticks
Melt the white chocolate and dip each marshmallow into it, coating completely. Roll the marshmallow in crushed candy canes to coat. Use a pretzel stick to attach the marshmallow to a piece of parchment paper or a baking sheet.
Candy Cane Hot Chocolate Mix
• 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of instant coffee powder (optional)
Mix all ingredients together and store in an airtight container. To make, combine 2 tablespoons of the mix with 1 cup of hot water and stir until dissolved.
Savory Recipes
Candy canes can also be used to add a sweet and pepperminty flavor to savory dishes. Here are a few ideas:
Peppermint Candy Cane Glazed Ham
• 1 (4-6 pound) ham
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar
• 1/4 cup of crushed candy canes
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons of honey
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, crushed candy canes, mustard, and honey. Brush the mixture all over the ham and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until caramelized.
Candy Cane Coated Pretzels
• 1 bag of pretzels
• 1/4 cup of crushed candy canes
• 1 tablespoon of melted butter
Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the butter and mix with crushed candy canes. Toss pretzels with the candy cane mixture and spread on the baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until crispy.
DIY Decorations
Candy canes can also be used to create beautiful and festive decorations for your holiday home. Here are a few ideas:
Candy Cane Wreath
• 12-15 candy canes
• 1 ring of wire or foam (depending on size)
• Floral tape or hot glue gun
Wrap the wire or foam ring with the candy canes, using floral tape or hot glue to secure. You can also add other decorations like bows, ribbons, or ornaments.
Candy Cane Garland
• 12-15 candy canes
• 1 spool of red or green ribbon or twine
• 1 pair of scissors
• 1 hot glue gun (optional)
String the candy canes onto the ribbon or twine, spacing evenly apart. You can also use a hot glue gun to attach the candy canes to each other, creating a more permanent garland.
In conclusion, candy canes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of creative and delicious ways. From sweet treats to savory recipes and DIY decorations, there’s no shortage of ideas to inspire your holiday cooking and crafting. So why not get creative and make something amazing with candy canes this holiday season?