Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) fine sea salt
  • 6 oz (170g) candy canes, crushed

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and unsweetened applesauce until the mixture looks pale and fluffy.
  2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating on medium speed for 60 seconds until the batter is velvety and well-emulsified.
  3. Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula until no streaks of flour remain.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to firm up the fats.
  5. Scoop 1-tablespoon portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls.
  6. Press the top of each dough ball firmly into the bowl of crushed candy canes until the top is generously coated.
  7. Place the cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake for 10 minutes until set.