Candy canes are an iconic Christmas candy. White with red stripes, they’re shaped like a cane and traditionally filled with peppermint flavor. Christmas isn’t the same without them, but they’re more than just for tree decorations candy canes.
They originated in Germany around 1670 but weren’t the same candy canes we know today. Back then, they were straight white sugar-flavored sticks. It was thought they were created by a local candy maker to keep children quiet during Christmas Eve worship services. However, there is a lot of folklore about how candy canes got their shape and Christmas association.
The earliest verifiable mention is 1837 at the Exhibition of the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association where candies were judged. In 1844, a recipe for straight peppermint sticks was published. The earliest reference to a candy cane being hung on a tree was 1882.
Back then, candy canes were made by hand. In the early 1920’s a patent was created for a candy cane making machine which made mass producing candy canes easy and turned them into the holiday staple we know today. It seems during the holidays every store has an abundance of candy canes. This year, pick up some to hang on the tree but also try one of these 12 recipes that use candy canes.
“White Chocolate Candy Cane Popcorn is so easy to make, its the perfect treat and makes a great food gift.” – Laureen
“These Candy Cane Chocolate Cupcakes are the perfect Christmas cupcake. Super moist chocolate cupcakes are topped with peppermint frosting and sprinkled with candy canes.” – Fiona
“Rich and delicious Easy Candy Cane Chocolate Truffles take very little time to make and are the perfect peppermint holiday treat that you can give!” – Krissy
“Fluffy pink filling and a fun peppermint pretzel makes these pretty Chocolate Peppermint Fluff Cookie Cups the star of any holiday party!” – Jocelyn
“These peppermint sugar cookies were a big hit with the entire family! They are similar to other recipes, but with a Christmas twist. My favorite part was the crushed candy canes on top. We even went one step further and put peppermint extract in the cookie dough. Sooo good!” Kristyn
“Creamy and decadent Slow Cooker Peppermint White Hot Chocolate! This easy recipe is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day! Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for the ultimate peppermint experience!” – Trish
“This rich, peppermint, cheesecake dip is perfect for all of your holiday and Christmas parties! An easy to make, sweet, dessert dip that tastes like peppermint cheesecake!” – Nichole
“Sweet snack mix made with white chocolate and candy canes. Perfect to serve or give away during the holiday season!” – Sally
“White Chocolate Candy Cane Chex Mix – only 3 ingredients!! This stuff is addictive! I couldn’t walk past it without having a bite. Makes a great quick gift for friends, neighbors, teachers, and co-workers. Quick and easy gift that everyone will enjoy!” – Steph
“Velvety peppermint cheesecake with swirls of white chocolate candy cane bars and topped with a piece of chocolate, these festive chocolate cheesecake bars are a showstopper. Easy as 1,2,3 and only 7 ingredients!” – Roxana
“Comprised of two luscious layers of semi-sweet and white chocolate, infused with peppermint, and topped with minty pieces of candy cane, peppermint bark is a classic holiday treat. It’s also incredibly simple to make at home, and so much more affordable. The colorful little squares are delicious alongside a steamy mug of hot cocoa, and make lovely hostess gifts for your next holiday get-together.” – Laura
“These sweet peppermint bark meringues are made with just a handful of ingredients. They’re adorably festive with candy canes stripes, dipped in dark chocolate, and sprinkled with crushed candy cane pieces.” – Samantha
