Stained Glass Cookies

Why Make This Recipe

Stained Glass Cookies are a fun and cheerful treat that adds a touch of color to any occasion. These cookies not only taste great but also look stunning with their colorful centers made from melted candies. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or just a special afternoon snack. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet taste and gorgeous appearance of these cookies.

How to Make Stained Glass Cookies

Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup crushed Jolly Ranchers (variety of colors)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Cut out small shapes in the center of each cookie.
9. Fill the center cut-outs with crushed Jolly Ranchers.
10. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Let cool on a wire rack before decorating or displaying.

How to Serve Stained Glass Cookies

These cookies can be served on a beautiful platter as a delightful treat at parties or family gatherings. They also make a wonderful gift wrapped in cellophane or placed in a decorative tin. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a perfect afternoon snack.

How to Store Stained Glass Cookies

To keep your Stained Glass Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Tips to Make Stained Glass Cookies

• Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
• Don’t skip the step of cutting out the smaller shapes; this is what creates the stained glass effect.
• Experiment with different candy colors for a variety of looks and flavors.
• Make sure the cookies are fully cooled before displaying them to avoid any melting of the candy.

Variation

You can use different types of hard candies for the center of the cookies, such as Life Savers or any other similar candy. You can also add food coloring to the dough for a fun twist!

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of candy for the center?
Yes, you can use any hard candy that melts well. Just crush them into small pieces before using.

2. How thick should I roll out the dough?
Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness for the best results.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before rolling and baking.