Stained glass cookies are a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies, their beauty and sweetness making them a fun project for bakers of all ages. With vibrant colors and intricate designs, these cookies can brighten any occasion from holiday gatherings to birthday parties.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about crafting the perfect stained glass cookies, including a step-by-step guide, helpful tips, and variations to make this recipe uniquely yours.
Table of Contents
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Stained Glass Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract; mix until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk flour and baking powder together. Gradually add to the wet ingredients until dough forms. If sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out desired shapes and then smaller cutouts in the center to form ‘windows.’
- Place cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets. Fill each center with crushed Jolly Ranchers of various colors, being careful not to overfill.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges turn lightly golden and candies have melted. Let cool on the sheet before transferring to a rack.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before handling to let the candy centers harden. Serve and enjoy their beautiful stained-glass effect!
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love This Stained Glass Cookies
Stained glass cookies are not only visually stunning but also deliciously sweet. These cookies combine a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth base with the colorful brilliance of crushed Jolly Ranchers, which create a beautiful stained glass effect when baked.
They are perfect for decorating with friends and family, making them a wonderful activity for both kids and adults. Additionally, their versatility allows you to adapt them for any occasion or season, ensuring they’ll be a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients for Stained Glass Cookies
To make your own stained glass cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup crushed Jolly Ranchers (various colors)
Ingredient Notes
When making stained glass cookies, the ingredients serve essential roles in achieving the perfect texture and taste. Here are some substitution options to make the recipe healthier or suit dietary needs:
- Butter: For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or use a non-dairy butter alternative.
- Sugar: Try using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute suitable for baking (such as erythritol) for a healthier sweetening option.
- Jolly Ranchers: If you want to avoid candy, consider using crushed hard candies like Werther’s or making your own fruit-flavored hard candies at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your stained glass cookies.
Step 1 – Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. The dough should be soft and a little sticky but not overly wet. If it’s too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes.
Step 2 – Shape the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After chilling, on a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Using cookie cutters, cut out your desired shapes. To form the stained glass effect, use a smaller cookie cutter in the center of each cookie to create a window.
Once your shapes are cut, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3 – Add the Candy
Crush the Jolly Ranchers into small pieces, putting different colors into separate bowls. Fill the center of the cookies with the crushed candy, ensuring not to overfill as the candy will spread while baking.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn golden brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Success
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough will ensure that it holds its shape while baking and makes it easier to work with.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality Jolly Ranchers and fresh butter for the best taste.
- Watch the Baking Time: Since ovens can vary, set a timer and keep an eye on the cookies near the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking.
- Creative Shapes: Use seasonal cookie cutters for different occasions, like hearts for Valentine’s Day or stars for Christmas.
- Presentation: Consider using edible glitter or frosting to decorate around the edges of the cookies for added flair.
- Use a Toothpick: If any candy melts onto the cookie surface, use a toothpick to pop any bubbles that may form during baking
Flavor Variations
While classic stained glass cookies are delightful, here are some flavor variations to consider:
- Chocolate Cookies: Add unsweetened cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate version, pairing well with fruity hard candies.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing citrusy flavor.
- Nutty Flavor: Replace part of the flour with ground almonds or hazelnuts for a nutty twist.
- Spiced Version: Mix in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor, ideal for holiday baking.
Serving Suggestions
Stained glass cookies are a show-stopping dessert that pairs beautifully with:
- A glass of milk
- Hot chocolate or coffee
- Fruit salads for a refreshing contrast
- As part of a dessert platter at parties or gatherings
If you’re craving another sweet masterpiece, check out my Amazing Midnight Peanut Butter Delight Cookies – a decadent twist for all peanut butter lovers.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
To maintain the cookies’ freshness, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
To freeze, wrap the cookies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutriment | Quantité |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protéines | 2 g |
| Glucides | 20 g |
| Lipides | 7 g |
| Fibres | 0 g |
| Sodium | 50 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Explore more healthy baking ideas and ingredient swaps from the official USDA MyPlate Kitchen
FAQ About Stained Glass Cookies
What is the best way to crush Jolly Ranchers?
To crush Jolly Ranchers, place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces. Alternatively, you can place them in a food processor, but be cautious not to turn them into powder; you want small chunks for the best stained glass effect.
Can I make these cookies in advance?
Absolutely! Stained glass cookies can be made a few days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will remain fresh. You can also freeze the unbaked dough or the baked cookies for later enjoyment.
Are there any alternatives for the egg in the recipe?
Yes! If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup of mashed banana, or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes).
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Chilling the dough before rolling it out is essential to prevent spreading. Additionally, make sure your dough is not too soft when you cut out the shapes.
Final Thoughts
Stained glass cookies are not only delicious but also a creative outlet for bakers of all ages. With their vibrant colors and beautiful designs, they bring joy to any table. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a sweet treat, this recipe is bound to delight everyone who tries it. Don’t forget to experiment with different flavors and presentations to make these memorable cookies your own!