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Irresistible Stained Glass Window Cookies

stained glass window cookies - featured image

These stained glass window cookies feature colorful, translucent candy centers shining through a buttery, tender cookie base, perfect for festive occasions and year-round enjoyment.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • About 2 cups crushed hard candies (clear or brightly colored, e.g., Jolly Ranchers or Life Savers)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Add the large egg and pure vanilla extract; beat until fully combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  6. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Crush about 2 cups of hard candies by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and gently tapping with a rolling pin until small chunks form. Set aside.
  8. Roll out one dough disc on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch (6mm) thickness. Chill again if too soft.
  9. Use cookie cutters with interior cutouts to cut shapes and windows. Transfer cookies to baking sheets.
  10. Fill the cut-out windows with about a teaspoon of crushed candy each.
  11. Bake for 10-12 minutes until candy melts and cookie edges start to turn golden.
  12. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to let candy harden.
  13. Repeat with the second dough disc.

Notes

Chill dough to prevent spreading and keep shapes sharp. Crush candies into small chunks, not powder, to avoid burning. Use cookie cutters with interior cutouts for best stained glass effect. Cool cookies fully on baking sheet before transferring to avoid candy cracking or sticking. Adjust baking time or temperature if candy starts to burn.

Nutrition

Keywords: stained glass window cookies, holiday cookies, hard candy cookies, colorful cookies, easy cookie recipe, festive cookies