Stained Glass Cookies Recipe

Name: Stained Glass Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Assorted hard candies (like Jolly Ranchers), crushed

Published: December 7, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Visually Stunning: The colorful candy melts create an eye-catching centerpiece that will impress guests.
Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or as a fun afternoon project with kids.
Customizable Flavors: You can mix and match flavors using different extracts and candy types.
Great for Gifting: These cookies are perfect for wrapping up as gifts or hanging as ornaments.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
Cookie cutters
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Rolling pin

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine ingredients efficiently without spilling.
Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar quick and easy, ensuring a fluffy texture in your dough.

Ingredients

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for a twist)
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)

For the Stained Glass Center

Assorted hard candies (like Jolly Ranchers or Life Savers), separated by color and crushed

For Finishing Touches

Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Ribbon or string (if hanging as ornaments)

How to Make Stained Glass Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and optional ½ teaspoon almond extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture until fully incorporated. The dough should be smooth.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut shapes from the dough.

Step 6: Create Candy Centers

Use smaller cookie cutters or a knife to cut out shapes from the center of each cookie. Fill these holes with crushed candies before baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets. Bake in preheated oven for about 8–10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool Down and Finish

Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks. Dust with powdered sugar before serving or packaging them as gifts!

Enjoy your vibrant and tasty Stained Glass Cookies Recipe, perfect for sharing with friends and family!

How to Serve Stained Glass Cookies Recipe

Stained glass cookies are not only a delightful treat but also a beautiful addition to any festive gathering. These colorful cookies can be served in various ways to enhance their visual appeal and taste.

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter for a stunning centerpiece at your holiday party. Mixing different shapes and colors will create an eye-catching display.

Gift Boxes

Place the cookies in clear gift boxes tied with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift. This adds a personal touch that friends and family will appreciate.

Hanging Ornaments

Use ribbon or string to hang the cookies as ornaments on your Christmas tree. This allows you to enjoy them as decoration before indulging in their sweetness.

Set up a cookie decorating station during holiday gatherings. Provide icing, sprinkles, and other toppings so guests can personalize their stained glass cookies.

Accompanied by Hot Beverages

Serve these cookies alongside hot chocolate or spiced tea. The warmth of the drinks complements the sweetness of the cookies, making for a cozy treat.

How to Perfect Stained Glass Cookies Recipe

To achieve the best results with your stained glass cookies, follow these helpful tips.

Use softened butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for better mixing and texture. Cold butter can lead to tough cookies.
Chill your dough: After mixing, chill the dough for at least an hour. This prevents spreading during baking and helps maintain shapes.
Crush candies properly: Make sure to crush hard candies into small pieces for even melting. Larger chunks may not create the desired effect in the cookie.
Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Overbaking can result in hard edges while underbaking may lead to uneven textures.
Dust with powdered sugar: Before serving, lightly dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish that enhances presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Stained Glass Cookies Recipe

Pairing side dishes with stained glass cookies can elevate your dessert table. Here are some delicious options:

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cookies while adding a healthy balance.
Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses like brie and cheddar with crackers. The savory flavors contrast nicely with sweet treats.
Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruits or pretzels alongside their cookies for added indulgence.
Mini Cupcakes: Offer mini-sized cupcakes in various flavors to provide variety without overwhelming guests’ palates.
Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and a hint of savory flavor that pairs well with sweet desserts.
Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light option that balances out richer desserts like stained glass cookies.
Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Create an ice cream sundae bar where guests can top their scoops with crushed stained glass cookie pieces for fun customization.
Hot Chocolate Station: Serve warm hot chocolate with whipped cream and toppings as a cozy drink option alongside your festive cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making stained glass cookies, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect your results.

Ignoring the chilling step: Skipping the refrigeration of dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always chill your dough for at least an hour.
Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
Not crushing candies properly: Using large pieces of candy can cause uneven melting. Make sure to crush them into small, even pieces for a uniform appearance.
Using the wrong oven temperature: Baking at a temperature that is too high or low can change the texture and color of your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Neglecting to dust with powdered sugar: Forgetting this step can lead to cookies that appear dull and unappetizing. Dust your finished cookies lightly for a beautiful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Stained Glass Cookies Recipe

Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating Stained Glass Cookies Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 5-7 minutes.
Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warmed.
Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid, and heat for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Stained Glass Cookies Recipe.

Can I use different types of candies for Stained Glass Cookies?

Yes, you can experiment with various hard candies like butterscotch or fruit-flavored ones for unique flavors and colors.

If your dough crumbles, try adding a teaspoon of milk or water until it reaches a workable consistency.

How do I make my Stained Glass Cookies more colorful?

Using assorted colored candies will create vibrant stained glass effects. Be creative with your color choices!

Can I decorate my Stained Glass Cookies?

Absolutely! You can use icing or edible glitter after baking for extra decoration if desired.

Final Thoughts

Stained glass cookies are not just beautiful; they are also versatile and customizable. You can mix up flavors and colors based on personal preferences or seasonal themes. Try this delightful recipe today, and let your creativity shine through!

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