One of the most distinctive things about candy canes is their peppermint flavor. This comes from peppermint oil, which is extracted from the leaves of peppermint plants. It's what gives candy canes their refreshing zing and makes them a breath-freshening favorite.
In addition to sugar and peppermint oil, candy canes often contain other ingredients like food coloring and flavorings. These help give them their signature red and white stripes and extra-pepperminty taste. Some candy canes may also contain high-fructose corn syrup or other sweeteners to make them even more indulgent.
