Name: Stained Glass Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Colorful hard candies (for center)

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Stained Glass Cookies are beautifully colorful, deliciously buttery treats that make for the perfect festive snack or dessert. These cookies are not just visually stunning; they are also fun to make, especially for gatherings and holiday celebrations. The vibrant centers, made from crushed hard candies, create a stunning stained glass effect that will delight both kids and adults alike. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 150
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 50mg

Why Make This Stained Glass Cookies

Stained Glass Cookies are a delightful mix of creativity and flavor. They offer a unique way to enjoy cookies that not only taste good but also look stunning on any dessert table. The combination of buttery cookie dough and the crispy sweetness of melted candies creates a texture contrast that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great activity for kids for family baking nights, giving everyone a chance to design their own cookies!

How to Make Stained Glass Cookies

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking these beautiful cookies.

Step 2: Mixing

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, ensuring there are no lumps. In another large bowl, cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Beat in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Cooking

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out various shapes and place them on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. With a smaller cookie cutter, cut out the shape in the center of each cookie. Fill those centers with colorful crushed hard candies, which will melt beautifully during baking.

Step 4: Finishing

Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Stained Glass Cookies

Stained Glass Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Serve them at holiday parties, alongside a warm cup of cocoa or milk, or put them in gift boxes for friends and family. They make beautiful centerpieces on a dessert table, bringing a splash of color and charm to the festivities.

How to Store Stained Glass Cookies

To keep your Stained Glass Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Layer the cookies between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, where they can last for up to three months.

Expert Tips for Perfect Stained Glass Cookies

For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Use different colored hard candies to create a stunning variety of stained glass effects.
If your dough feels sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes before rolling it out.
Choose shapes that will allow the candies to melt well, like stars, hearts, or circles.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Stained Glass: Use cocoa powder in the dough for a chocolate version that’s just as appealing.
Flavored Candies: Experiment with different flavored candies like Werther’s Originals or lemon drops for a twist.
Holiday Themes: For holidays, use themed cookie cutters like Christmas trees or Easter eggs and match the colors of the candies to the theme.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of sugar? Yes, you can replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
What kind of hard candies work best? Jolly Ranchers or similar candies are great, but avoid any that contain chocolate.
Is it necessary to chill the dough? Chilling isn’t necessary but can help if the dough feels too soft.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it.
Why did my candies not melt correctly? Make sure the candies are crushed finely and don’t overbake the cookies, as this can lead to burning.

Conclusion

These Stained Glass Cookies are not only a treat for the eyes but also a deliciously fun baking experience. With their colorful appearance and sweet, buttery flavor, they are sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, invite the family to join in, and enjoy the process of baking these delightful cookies together! Happy baking!

Stained Glass Cookies

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Author: jasmine
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Beautifully colorful and deliciously buttery treats perfect for festive occasions.

Ingredients

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2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Colorful hard candies (for center)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla, then gradually add the dry ingredients until just combined.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thick. Cut out shapes and place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Cut out the center shapes and fill with crushed hard candies.
Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.