Stained Glass Sugar Cookies: A Festive Treat for the Holidays

created by Christmas Cookies Hub, updated on Oct 27, 2025

Delicious Stained Glass Sugar Cookies Recipe for Christmas_featured
Delicious Stained Glass Sugar Cookies Recipe for Christmas_featured

Get ready to create delightful memories this holiday season with Stained Glass Sugar Cookies! These cookies are not just a treat, but a beautiful addition to your holiday festivities. As you gather with family and friends, baking these classic holiday cookies will fill your kitchen with the sweet aromas of vanilla and almond. The colorful candy-filled centers mimic stained glass, making them not only delicious but also visually stunning. Perfect for sharing, these cookies make a thoughtful gift or a centerpiece for your holiday dessert table. Let’s dive into this traditional Christmas recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your family cookie recipes!

Ingredients

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 cup crushed hard candy (like Jolly Ranchers)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Colored sugar or sprinkles (optional)
  • Royal icing (optional for decoration)

Steps

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully incorporated.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
  6. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
  7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  9. Make a small cutout in the center of each cookie using a smaller cookie cutter.
  10. Fill the cutouts with crushed hard candy.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  12. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
  13. If desired, decorate with royal icing once completely cooled.

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure the dough is chilled before rolling; this prevents it from sticking and helps maintain the shape during baking.
  • Experiment with different colors of hard candy for a more vibrant stained glass effect.
  • Use a variety of cookie cutter shapes to create a visually appealing assortment.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent the candy from becoming sticky.
  • If using royal icing, allow the cookies to dry completely before stacking to avoid smudging.

FAQ

  • Can I use different extracts? Yes! Feel free to substitute with other extracts like lemon or peppermint for a unique flavor.
  • What can I use instead of hard candy? You can use colored sugar or sprinkles for a different look, but they won’t create the stained glass effect.
  • How do I store these cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
  • Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies without icing for up to three months.
  • What is the best way to decorate these cookies? Royal icing or simple glaze works great! Just make sure they are completely cooled before decorating.

Conclusion

Stained Glass Sugar Cookies are a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire. With their beautiful, colorful centers and classic flavor, they are sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories with your family. Don't forget to save this recipe to ensure your holiday celebrations are filled with joy and sweet treats. Happy baking!