Add Preferred SourceThere is something so nostalgic about making Church Window Cookies. They remind me of the first time I walked into a holiday party as a kid and saw these colorful slices on a tray. They looked like stained glass windows, and I remember thinking they were far too pretty to eat… at least until I tried one.
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Every year since, these no bake cookies have had a place in my holiday treat tins. They are wonderfully simple, always loved, and the perfect recipe to make when you want something cheerful and delicious without turning on the oven.
A Festive Treat for Cozy Winter Moments
These cookies are perfect for cozy winter evenings when you want a little sweetness without the fuss. They feel festive, colorful, and joyful, especially when the pastel marshmallows peek through the chocolate like tiny glowing windows.
Ingredients
- semisweet chocolate chips
- butter, cubed
- pastel miniature marshmallows
- walnuts, toasted
- flaked coconut
How to Make Church Window Cookies
Start by melting the chocolate chips and butter together in a large saucepan, keeping the heat low so the mixture stays smooth and silky. I love using a heavy saucepan for this because it distributes heat evenly and keeps the chocolate from scorching. Stir gently until everything is melted and glossy.
Take the pan off the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. It should still be warm but not hot. Once ready, stir in the marshmallows and toasted walnuts. Folding them in while the chocolate is still soft helps everything coat evenly.
Next, divide the mixture into three portions and transfer each onto its own sheet of waxed paper. Use the waxed paper to shape each portion into a tight 10 inch log. The paper helps keep your hands clean and gives the log a smooth, compact shape.
Sprinkle the coconut on a flat surface and roll each chocolate log over it until coated on all sides. The coconut not only adds texture, it also keeps the outside from sticking.
Wrap each log tightly in fresh waxed paper and refrigerate for at least four hours, or until firm. Chilling allows the chocolate to set and makes slicing much easier.
Once firm, use a sharp knife to slice the logs crosswise into half inch pieces. You will see the pretty window colors instantly, and the slices hold their shape beautifully when cold.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chilled on a holiday dessert board, tuck them into cookie tins, or pair them with hot cocoa or coffee for a simple but lovely treat. They also make pretty edible gifts because of their jewel toned centers.
Storage Tips
Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the wrapped logs for up to two months, then thaw slightly before slicing. They slice best when cold, so try not to let them soften too much before cutting.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you love simple, nostalgic sweets, you might enjoy pairing these cookies with my classic Cheese Ball recipe, my cozy Southern Mash, or a slice of Mississippi Mud Pie. Each one brings its own rich flavor and comforting charm to any gathering.
Church Window Cookies
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Waxed paper
- Sharp Knife
Ingredients
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup butter cubed
- 1 package 10 ounces pastel miniature marshmallows
- ½ cup chopped walnuts toasted
- 2 cups flaked coconut
Instructions
- Melt chocolate chips and butter in a saucepan over low heat until smooth.
- Cool slightly, then stir in marshmallows and walnuts.
- Divide into three portions and place each on waxed paper.
- Shape into 10 inch logs using the waxed paper.
- Roll logs in coconut until coated.
- Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least four hours.
- Slice into half inch pieces before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
A Note on Nutritional Information
Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed.
