Stained glass cookies are a festive, eye-catching treat perfect for the holiday season. With buttery cookie dough and vibrant candy centres, these cookies are both beautiful and delicious!
Ingredients
- 225g butter, softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup white sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 20–25 hard-boiled lollies or lollipops
- Cookie cutters
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Cream the softened butter and sugar together until well combined and fluffy.
- Add the salt and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
- Add the egg and beat thoroughly.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Divide the dough into one or two portions and shape into rectangles. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Crush the Lollies
- Unwrap the lollies and separate into different colours.
- Place each colour into individual zip-lock bags.
- Use a rolling pin to crush the lollies into small pieces (avoid turning them into powder). Set aside.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (Bake).
- Work with one portion of dough at a time, leaving the other in the fridge.
- Lightly knead the dough on a well-floured surface, then roll it out to a thickness of approximately 5mm.
- Use a large to medium cookie cutter to cut out your desired shapes and carefully transfer them to a baking tray lined with a silicone baking mat.
- Using a smaller cutter, cut out and remove the centre of each cookie directly on the tray to maintain its shape.
Step 4: Fill the Windows
- Fill each cookie’s cut-out centre about three-quarters full with crushed candies. Avoid overfilling to prevent overflow during baking and try not to get on the cookie dough to keep a smooth edge.
- Optional: Use a plastic straw to cut a small hole near the top of each cookie if you want to hang them as ornaments.
Step 5: Chill and Bake
- Place the prepared cookies in the refrigerator to chill for 15–20 minutes, ensuring they hold their shape while baking.
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (350°F).
- Bake cookies for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are set and the candy has melted to form a stained-glass effect.
Step 6: Cool and Store
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on the tray until the candy centre's harden.
- Transfer the cookies to an airtight container for storage. They will keep well for several days.
Tips for Success
- For a more vibrant effect, use a variety of colourful hard candies.
- If the candy doesn't fill the center after baking, add a bit more and bake for an extra 2 minutes.
- A silicone baking mat is highly recommended for this recipe. Baking paper might work as an alternative, but it’s not as reliable.
Looking for more festive inspiration? Explore our step-by-step guides for Santa Hat Brownies, Santa Hat Meringues, and Christmas Tree Brownies to add some holiday magic to your treats. And don’t forget to visit our Christmas section for all your decorating needs, including festive decorations, tableware, and everything to make your celebrations extra special. Make this Christmas unforgettable!