Church Window Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that’s easy to make and absolutely irresistible, you’re going to love this Church Window Cookies Recipe. I first made these when I wanted something festive but fuss-free, and honestly, they’ve become a staple in my cookie rotation ever since. The combination of melty chocolate, colorful marshmallows, and a crunch of nuts and coconut is just magical—every bite feels like a mini celebration. Stick around because I’m about to share everything you need to nail this classic no-bake cookie that looks as charming as it tastes!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Church Window Cookies Recipe lies in its simple, feel-good ingredients that bring richness and texture together perfectly. I always recommend using good-quality chocolate chips and fresh marshmallows because tiny details like this make a noticeable difference.

• Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips: Choose your favorite based on how sweet or rich you want these; semi-sweet balances the sweetness nicely.
• Salted butter: Adds creaminess and depth; cubing it helps it melt evenly without burning.
• Pastel marshmallows: These add the iconic colorful look—don’t substitute mini ones unless you prefer a different texture.
• Toasted chopped walnuts: Toasting brings out that nutty flavor and adds crunch; if you’re nut-free, you can swap for seeds or leave out.
• Sweetened shredded coconut: Use fresh or thawed for best flavor, and the sweetness brings a lovely contrast to the chocolate.

Variations

One thing I love about this Church Window Cookies Recipe is how flexible it is—feel free to make it your own. Over the years, I’ve swapped out nuts, played with marshmallow colors, and even tried it with white chocolate for a fun twist.

• Nuts Swapped Out: I’ve tried pecans and almonds instead of walnuts, and each gives a unique flavor that my family enjoys just as much.
• Chocolate Varieties: Using dark chocolate chips ups the intensity if you prefer less sweetness; my kids still love it!
• Marshmallow Mix: Mixing pastel marshmallows with standard white ones adds a random pop of color that’s a nice surprise.
• Dietary Modifications: For gluten-free needs, this recipe is naturally compliant, and you can use dairy-free butter to suit allergies.

How to Make Church Window Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Melt Chocolate and Butter Gently

Start by placing your chocolate chips and cubed salted butter in a large saucepan over very low heat. Stir constantly — this is key so the chocolate doesn’t scorch. I learned the hard way that patience here really pays off. You want a smooth, silky mixture that’s fully melted before moving on. Once melted, take it off the heat and let it rest about 5 minutes so it cools slightly. If it’s still too hot, it’ll melt your marshmallows, and that’s not what you want.

Step 2: Prepare Coconut and Wax Paper

This part is fun because it’s where the colorful window effect starts. Lay two large sheets of wax paper on your counter, and sprinkle about a quarter of your shredded coconut over each, roughly in a 4 by 12-inch rectangle. This coconut base helps keep the logs from sticking and adds to the texture. Save half of the coconut for later; you’ll sprinkle that on top before wrapping.

Step 3: Combine Marshmallows, Walnuts, and Chocolate

In a large mixing bowl, toss your pastel marshmallows with the toasted chopped walnuts. Once the chocolate mixture has cooled a bit, pour it over the marshmallows and nuts, then gently stir everything together so each marshmallow gets a lovely chocolate coating. Mixing gently here keeps your marshmallows intact but ensures they get enveloped in chocolate goodness.

Step 4: Shape and Chill the Cookies

Spoon half of your mixture onto each prepared wax paper section right on top of the coconut. Then shape each one into a firm log—think about rolling a thick loaf. Once shaped, sprinkle the remaining shredded coconut generously over the tops and any bare spots around the logs. Wrap them tightly in the wax paper, twisting the ends neatly, then pop them in your fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight. My tip: overnight chilling really helps the logs firm up so you get clean, beautiful slices.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

When ready to enjoy, unwrap your chilled logs and use a sharp knife to cut into slices about 1/2-inch thick. I love how when you slice them, those colorful marshmallows peek out like little stained glass windows—that’s where the magic is! Serve them up on a cookie tray or a pretty plate and watch your friends’ faces light up.

How to Serve Church Window Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple and let these beauties shine on their own. Sometimes I dust them lightly with powdered sugar or add a few extra coconut flakes for texture. If you’re feeling festive, a drizzle of white chocolate can add a lovely touch that doubles the wow factor.

Side Dishes

Church Window Cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a warm mug of cocoa. They’re also a sweet finish alongside a bowl of fresh fruit during holiday brunches or a simple afternoon tea spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I like to slice the logs thinner than usual and arrange them in a circle on a decorative platter to resemble a wreath. Wrapping individual slices in colorful cellophane bags tied with ribbon makes for adorable edible gifts that everyone loves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Church Window Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm and fresh. They stay tasty for up to a week—which is plenty of time because they rarely last that long in my house!

Freezing

Freezing these cookies works beautifully. Just wrap the tightly cut slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. When you want a treat, thaw at room temperature or eat them frozen for a cool twist.

Reheating

Since these are no-bake, reheating isn’t necessary. But if you prefer a softer bite, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving—still super delicious!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Church Window Cookies Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s simple, nostalgic, and totally crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for the holidays or just craving a sweet treat, you can’t go wrong with these. Give them a try—you’ll find that once you make them, they become your go-to classic for sharing joy in every bite. Plus, they’re so much fun to make together with the people you love!

Print