Candy canes add a sweet and creative flair to holiday decorating on a dime. So, buy a bunch, eat a few, and use the rest to spread holiday cheer.
As featured in the Nov/Dec issue of the Post, creating your own holiday centerpiece using candy canes is easy with just a few simple steps: First, wrap a rubber band around a clear vase or cylinder from your cabinet or a craft store. Then, slip candy canes under the rubber band, either all around the container or just a few in front. Finally, tie a ribbon over the rubber band and place a sprig of holly or evergreen into the knot. Fill with flowers, a candle, or more candy canes!
But why stop with one holiday project? Here’s a Santa’s sack-ful of ways to celebrate with these tasty treats and their signature stripes:
Eat ’em: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on cut-out Christmas cookies, or add to batter or frosting. Use medium-sized bits to top ice cream sundaes or mix into crispy rice treats. To make peppermint bark candy, melt two pounds white chocolate wafers in microwave for one minute. Stir in one cup of crushed candy canes, then spread thinly on waxed paper. Allow to dry, then break into chunks. Store in closed container or individual treat bags. (Great for teacher gifts!)
Drink ’em: Break and drop candy canes into ginger ale, then add to your favorite punch recipe. Spoon crushed canes into hot apple cider or milkshakes. Use flavored candy canes (chocolate mint, cinnamon, or cherry) to stir up hot chocolate, tea, and coffee.
Give ’em away: Decorate Christmas presents with candy canes and a ribbon. For a special look, glue two canes together (hooked parts touching) to form a heart and tie to a gift bag.
P.S.: Only decorate with wrapped canes. (Bugs love ’em, too!)
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