Chewy Spicy Red Hot Cookies

These chewy spicy Red Hot Cookies are my secret weapon for parties when something sweet and bold is in order Warm vanilla cookie dough pairs with crushed cinnamon candies for a cookie with a delightful kick and bright festive color

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: look for a high quality brand for the best rich flavor
• Granulated sugar: use fresh sugar for the chewiest texture
• Egg yolks: give extra richness and softness
• Pure vanilla extract: real vanilla makes the dough taste warm and fragrant
• All purpose flour: choose fresh flour for consistent results and a soft bite
• Baking powder: lifts the dough for light chewy cookies
• Kosher salt: balances sweetness and enhances flavor
• Red hot candies: pick the classic bright red ones and crush them just before adding for maximum spice and color impact

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Baking Sheet:

Line your cookie sheet with parchment paper This prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

Beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar for two to three minutes until the mixture looks pale and fluffy This step creates an airy base that results in chewy cookies

Add Yolks and Vanilla:

Mix in the egg yolks and pure vanilla extract Keep beating until the dough is light and fluffy This ensures a rich tender cookie

Combine Dry Ingredients:

Add all purpose flour baking powder and kosher salt The dough will look crumbly at first Do not worry Keep mixing until a dough ball forms

Fold in the Red Hots:

Gently stir in the crushed red hot candies Distribute them evenly for maximum pops of spicy cinnamon in every bite

Scoop and Shape the Cookies:

Scoop dough onto the parchment using a two tablespoon cookie scoop Space them out to allow room for spreading Lightly tap down the tops with a spatula so the cookies will bake evenly and not dome too much

Bake to Perfection:

Bake in the preheated oven for thirteen to fifteen minutes Watch for the edges to begin turning golden That is your sign to take them out for the perfect chewy center

Shape While Warm:

When they come out of the oven use the back of a spoon to gently nudge the melted candy and edges back into a neat round shape This step keeps the cookies looking pretty

Cool and Enjoy:

Let the cookies cool on the pan for five minutes This helps them set and finish baking inside Move them to a parchment lined wire rack to cool completely before stacking or storing

Save

I absolutely love how the red hot candies melt into the dough for spicy caramelized spots My granddaughter giggles every time we make these together especially when she gets to smash the candies with a rolling pin

Storage Tips

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days If you need to keep them fresh longer freeze the cookies in layers separated by parchment paper Thaw at room temperature

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find red hot candies try cinnamon imperials or another spicy cinnamon candy For even more heat sprinkle in a tiny bit of ground cinnamon to the dough Butter is key but margarine can work in a pinch with a slightly different flavor

Serving Suggestions

These cookies look striking on a white plate or stacked in festive tins Pair with black coffee or creamy hot chocolate For an extra treat use them as ice cream sandwich bases with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream

Save

Cultural and Holiday Notes

Red hot cookies are nostalgic for many families especially in America around Valentines and Christmas Baking with cinnamon candies was a popular trend in midcentury holiday recipes and still brings a burst of old school flavor to modern celebrations

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I keep the cookies chewy?

Ensure not to overbake—remove from the oven when edges lightly brown and let them finish on the tray.

→ Can I substitute red hot candies?

Cinnamon chips or other spicy candies work, but red hots provide the signature flavor and texture.

→ Why do I need to flatten the dough balls?

Flattening helps the cookies bake evenly and prevents doming, ensuring the candies melt smoothly.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature; add a slice of bread to help maintain softness.

→ Are these cookies spicy?

They have a noticeable cinnamon heat from the red hot candies, balanced by the sweet dough.