Glass window biscuits

Glass window biscuits are delightful cookies featuring a buttery, sweet dough with vibrant, melted candy centers. They are perfect for festive occasions and are a fun baking project to enjoy with children.

04 Feb 2026
Cook time 24 min
Prep time 45 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup maple syrup
1 egg
2.50 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tsp baking soda

Glass window biscuits, also known as stained-glass cookies, are delightful treats that combine the deliciousness of traditional biscuits with a beautiful, colorful center. They are perfect for festive occasions, cookie swaps, or as a fun baking project with children. Here's a simple recipe to get you started.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the maple syrup and egg until well combined.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.

3. Chill the Dough:
- Divide the dough into two portions, flatten them into discs, and wrap them in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour, or until it's firm and easy to handle.

4. Prepare for Rolling:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

5. Roll and Cut the Dough:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to about 1/4-inch (0.6 cm) thickness.
- Use larger cookie cutters to cut out shapes, then use smaller cutters to cut out "windows" within each shape.
- Carefully transfer the cut-out cookies to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches (5 cm) apart.

6. Fill the Windows:
- Place a small amount of crushed hard candy into each window cut-out, filling them but not overfilling to prevent overflow.

7. Bake:
- Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the candy "windows" have melted.
- Keep an eye on the cookies to ensure the candy doesn't burn.

8. Cool:
- Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the sheets. The candy will harden as it cools.
- Once the cookies are fully cooled, gently transfer them to a cooling rack to ensure any residual heat is evenly distributed.

9. Serve:
- Enjoy your glass window biscuits as a delightful treat, perfect for festive occasions or any time you want a special treat!

With these tips in mind and a little creativity, you'll be able to bake a batch of stunning and delicious glass window biscuits that are sure to impress. Whether you're sharing them with friends and family or enjoying them yourself, these cookies are a wonderful way to celebrate any occasion.

Glass window biscuits FAQ:

How long should I bake glass window biscuits?

Bake the biscuits in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure the edges turn lightly golden and the candy doesn't burn.

What can I use as a substitute for maple syrup in this recipe?

You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup, though the flavor will be slightly different. Adjust the sweetness as needed since those alternatives may vary in sweetness.

How should I store leftover glass window biscuits?

Store the cooled biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If the weather is humid, consider refrigerating them to prevent the candy from becoming sticky.

What is the best way to ensure the windows do not overflow during baking?

When filling the window cut-outs, use a small amount of crushed hard candy to prevent overflow. Fill them just enough to cover the opening without overfilling.

Can I freeze the dough for glass window biscuits?

Yes, you can freeze the dough. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.

Tips:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before starting to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.

- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies keep their shape.

- Use a variety of colored hard candies to create a vibrant, stained-glass effect. Crush them into small pieces but not into a powder.

- When cutting out the center shapes, you can use smaller cookie cutters or a knife with a steady hand.

- Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

- Make sure to place the cookies with the candy centers a few inches apart on the baking sheet, as they may spread slightly during baking.

- Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before attempting to move them, as the melted candy centers will need time to harden.

Nutrition per serving

12 Servings
Calories 190kcal
Protein 3.72g
Carbohydrates 24g
Fiber 0.78g
Sugar 6g
Fat 8g

Glass window biscuits