Sure, you could bake a batch of chocolate chip cookies for your party. Or you could dazzle your guests a batch of church window cookies. Also called “cathedral window cookies,” these treats take their inspiration from the vibrant, swirling colors of the stained-glass windows of cathedrals. With just five ingredients and zero baking required, these pretty cookies are such a fun and easy treat for parties and special gatherings!
Church Window Cookies Ingredients
- Chocolate chips: Our Test Kitchen pros tested a lot of different brands to find the best chocolate chips. Go with one of their recommendations for this church window cookies recipe—you won’t be disappointed.
- Marshmallows: Mini pastel marshmallows give that stained-glass look to these cathedral window cookies. You can usually find them at most grocery stores or super centers.
- Walnuts: Be sure to toast the nuts before you use them to bring out their rich nutty flavor. Otherwise, you’ll be left with raw, oily walnuts.
- Flaked coconut: The difference between flaked and shredded coconut is that flaked coconut has much bigger pieces. However, if all you have is shredded coconut, that will work!
Directions
Step 1: Create the dough
In a large saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and butter together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly. Fold in the marshmallows and walnuts using a rubber spatula.
Step 2: Shape the cookie log
Divide the dough evenly into three portions. Place each portion on a piece of waxed paper. Using the waxed paper, roll and shape each portion into a 10-inch-long log.
Step 3: Roll in coconut
Place the coconut on a clean countertop or a baking pan. Roll each cookie log in the coconut so the coconut adheres to the entire perimeter of the log. Wrap each coconut log tightly in waxed paper.
Step 4: Chill and slice
Refrigerate the logs until they’re firm, about two hours. Remove the logs from the waxed paper, and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch slices. Arrange your cathedral window cookies on a plate, and serve!
Editor’s Tip: We recommend using a very sharp knife to make clean cuts. Also, clean off your knife in between cuts if the chocolate is sticking to the knife. It’s tedious, but doing this will retain the beautiful shape and look of your cookies!
Recipe Variations
- Swap in other marshmallows: If you can’t find the mini pastel ones, don’t fret! The mini white marshmallows work just fine. Another option? Take your favorite gourmet marshmallows, and cut them up into mini-size mallows for this church window cookies recipe.
- Use a different nut: Not a fan of walnuts? Toasted pecans, almonds and hazelnuts are perfect substitutes!
- Choose your favorite chocolate: Swap in milk or dark chocolate chips in these cathedral window cookies.
How to Store Church Window Cookies
Before slicing, store the church window cookie rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. After slicing, keep them chilled, and serve within three days for the best quality, if they last that long. If they don’t, we have many more delicious no-bake cookie recipes for you to try!
How to Freeze Church Window Cookies
To freeze church window cookies, store the rolls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight whenever you’re ready to slice and serve!
Church Window Cookies Tips
How long should you let the chocolate and butter mixture cool before adding the marshmallows?
Cool the chocolate chip and butter mixture at room temperature just until warm. If you add the marshmallows while the mixture is hot, the marshmallows will melt.
Can I substitute the coconut?
Yes, you can substitute the flaked coconut. Instead, roll the logs in powdered sugar, cocoa powder, chopped nuts or graham cracker crumbs. If it’s the holiday season, roll them in Christmas sprinkles or crushed peppermint candy!
