Church window cookie recipe

Here’s my recipe for church windows, a classic no-bake cookie that imitates the look of stained glass. 🎄

Growing up, church windows were a Christmas cookie tray staple (though they’re technically closer to candy). Though I don’t think they have local origin, I tend to catch them pretty frequently at our country markets. I’d be interested to hear if they’re a tradition in other states or countries.

Fortunately, putting them together takes very little time or effort, so they make a beautiful and thoughtful last-minute gift.

These can also be customized based on taste. Chuck isn’t a fan of pecans and my kids don’t like coconut, so I made a couple of different batches, though the texture of the nuts does add to the illusion of cathedral windows (and the coconut is an even prettier detail that mimics winter snow). You might also prefer to sub the pecans for almonds.

Ingredients:

1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup shredded coconut
½ cup butter
1 (12 oz) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
3 cups multicolored mini marshmallows

Directions:

On a cookie sheet covered with wax paper, spread the pecans and coconut evenly, leaving about 2 inches of paper uncovered on each side.

In a double boiler, melt the butter and chocolate chips over medium heat until creamy, stirring constantly.

Remove from heat and immediately fold in the marshmallows. (Just fold it in, David!)

Spread the chocolate and marshmallow mixture over the nuts and coconut. Let set for 5 minutes.

Starting at one of the long ends, roll the paper gently toward the center, pulling the paper up as you go (like a jelly roll).

When you’ve rolled three-quarters of the way, bring the opposite side up and over the log.

Refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours. Slice and serve.

I ran out of time and left mine in the fridge overnight before slicing and they were still great the next day. However, once you slice the cookies, you don’t really want to keep them in the fridge as it can result in chocolate bloom (and the flavor will likely be compromised), but rather a cool place to keep from melting.

I hope everyone is finding time for peace this week. 🌞

To learn more about me and my Appalachian folk practice, including info on folk witchcraft, mountain magic, and hearthcraft, please visit gritchenwitch.com or join my Patreon at patreon.com/gritchenwitch.

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