Easy Stained Glass Cookies

Name: Easy Stained Glass Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 cup assorted hard candies (like Jolly Ranchers or Life Savers)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These Easy Stained Glass Cookies are a delightful treat that not only taste amazing but also look stunning. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion!

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:35:59.546Z

Stained glass cookies have always been a favorite during the holiday season. Their vibrant colors and sweet flavors bring joy to both kids and adults. These cookies are not only simple to make but also a wonderful activity to do with family and friends.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Beautifully colorful and visually appealing
Fun to make with kids and perfect for holiday traditions
Crispy edges with a soft center
Versatile shapes and flavors to suit any occasion

      

The Art of Stained Glass Cookies

Stained glass cookies are not just a treat; they are a canvas for creativity. The vibrant colors of the candy centers resemble stained glass windows, making them an eye-catching addition to any dessert table. When the cookies bake, the hard candies melt and create a glossy, jewel-like finish that captivates both children and adults alike. Whether you're decorating for a holiday party or a special gathering, these cookies are sure to impress your guests.

Making stained glass cookies is an engaging activity for families and friends. The process of rolling out the dough, cutting out shapes, and filling them with colorful candy provides an opportunity for creativity and bonding. Kids will love choosing their favorite shapes and colors, while adults can enjoy the nostalgia of crafting these beautiful cookies. This recipe is perfect for creating lasting memories in the kitchen.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To achieve the best results with your stained glass cookies, ensure your dough is well-chilled before rolling it out. Chilling helps the dough maintain its shape during baking, preventing the cookies from spreading too much. You can also chill the rolled-out dough for a few minutes before cutting out shapes, which will make it easier to handle and cut cleanly.

When selecting hard candies for the centers, opt for brightly colored candies that melt well, such as Jolly Ranchers or Life Savers. Crushing them into small pieces is essential for achieving an even melt and vibrant color. You can even mix different flavors to create a variety of colorful designs in your cookies.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your stained glass cookies are baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. These cookies can last for up to a week, making them perfect for preparing in advance for parties or holidays. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the unbaked cookie dough. You can roll and cut the shapes, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for up to three months.

These cookies are not only delightful on their own but also make a stunning centerpiece for dessert platters. Pair them with a selection of other cookies or desserts for a visually appealing display. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in decorative boxes or bags, adding a personal touch to special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract

For the Candy Centers

1 cup assorted hard candies (like Jolly Ranchers or Life Savers)

Make sure to choose vibrant colors of hard candies for the best stained glass effect!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until combined.

Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two halves, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Roll and Cut the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out one half of the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, and then cut out smaller shapes in the center to create the stained glass effect.

Add the Candy

Place the cookie shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Crush the hard candies and fill the center holes of each cookie with the crushed candy.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your beautiful stained glass cookies!

Why Use Almond Extract?

Almond extract is a key ingredient in these stained glass cookies, adding a unique depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the dough and the candies. The subtle nutty undertones enhance the overall taste, making each bite more enjoyable. If you're a fan of almond flavor, you can even experiment by adding a little extra to the recipe.

For those who may have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, vanilla extract works wonderfully as a substitute. The combination of vanilla and the sweet candy centers still delivers a delicious cookie that everyone can enjoy, ensuring that your baking remains accessible to all.

Creative Variations

While the classic stained glass cookie is delightful, there are endless variations you can explore. Try using flavored extracts like lemon or orange for a citrus twist, or incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, autumnal flavor. You can also experiment with different types of candy to create unique color combinations and taste experiences.

For a festive touch, consider using holiday-themed cookie cutters, such as stars, bells, or Christmas trees. This will make your cookies even more suitable for seasonal celebrations. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an added layer of flavor and decoration.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different flavors of extracts?

Absolutely! You can substitute the almond extract with lemon, orange, or any flavor you enjoy.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and cutting.

→ What types of candy work best?

Hard candies that melt well, like Jolly Ranchers or Life Savers, work best for the stained glass effect.