Church Window Cookies Recipe

If you love no-bake treats that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat, you’re going to absolutely adore this Church Window Cookies Recipe. These colorful, chocolaty, marshmallow-studded logs are a nostalgic favorite in my family, perfect for every holiday cookie tray or casual get-together. I can’t wait to share how easy and fun these are to whip up in your own kitchen!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients blend effortlessly to create that classic Church Window Cookies texture and look. When shopping, I like to pick good-quality chocolate chips and ensure the marshmallows are fresh and fluffy—this really makes a difference in the final chewiness!

• Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips: I usually go with semi-sweet for that perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
• Salted butter: Using salted butter enhances the chocolate flavor, but unsalted works too if you prefer control over saltiness.
• Pastel marshmallows: These add the signature colorful ‘window’ effect—if you can’t find pastel, regular mini marshmallows will do.
• Toasted chopped walnuts: Toasting brings out that nutty aroma and adds great crunch.
• Sweetened shredded coconut: This adds subtle sweetness and a lovely texture on the outside and inside the logs.

Variations

I really enjoy mixing things up with this Church Window Cookies Recipe because it’s such a simple base. Playing around with textures or adding new flavors makes it fresh every time!

• Nut Choices: I once swapped walnuts for pecans and loved the warmer flavor it gave; feel free to use whatever nuts you have on hand or leave them out for nut-free cookies.
• Chocolate Variety: Dark chocolate adds a richer bite if you want more intensity, while white chocolate can make it sweeter and creamier.
• Marshmallow Colors: For holidays, I like to use themed marshmallows—like red and green for Christmas—to give these cookies a festive flair.
• Adding Dried Fruit: Chopped dried cranberries or cherries bring a nice tart contrast that balances the sweetness nicely.

How to Make Church Window Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Melt Your Chocolate and Butter

Start by placing the chocolate chips and cubed salted butter into a large saucepan. Set your heat to low—you want to melt these slowly—and stir constantly so the chocolate doesn’t scorch or separate. This part smells absolutely heavenly and is a good time to sneak a little spoon taste (don’t worry, I always do!). Once smooth and fully melted, take it off the heat and let it cool for about five minutes. This step is crucial; if the chocolate mixture is too hot, it will melt your marshmallows when you combine them, and that’s not what we want!

Step 2: Prepare Your Coconut Beds and Mix the Filling

Lay two large pieces of wax paper on your counter. Sprinkle about a quarter of the shredded coconut on each piece to create a 4 by 12-inch patch—this coconut not only adds flavor but keeps the cookies from sticking once chilled. In a big mixing bowl, toss the pastel marshmallows and toasted chopped walnuts together.

Step 3: Combine Everything and Form Logs

Pour the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the bowl with your marshmallows and nuts. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat everything in chocolate. Next, divide this mixture in half and spoon each onto the coconut patches on your wax paper. Shape them carefully into logs—you want them roughly 4 inches wide and 12 inches long. When that’s done, sprinkle the remaining coconut generously over the tops and any uncovered areas. Then, wrap each log tightly in the wax paper. This part is nice and simple, and I find using my hands (slightly greased to avoid stickiness) helps get a lovely log shape.

Step 4: Chill Until Firm and Slice

Place your wrapped logs into the refrigerator for at least two hours, though overnight is better if you can wait. This gives the chocolate time to firm up and the marshmallows to meld into a chewy, delicious texture. When ready, unwrap and use a sharp knife to slice into about 1/2-inch cookies. If your knife sticks, wiping it clean between cuts helps keep slices neat and tidy.

How to Serve Church Window Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a little extra shredded coconut on top before chilling for an attractive snowy effect. Sometimes I add a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving, which adds an elegant touch and a hint of extra sweetness that my family really enjoys.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair swimmingly with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of cold milk—perfect for cozy afternoons or festive holiday gatherings. I’ve also served them alongside more traditional cookies, which adds a fun variety to any cookie tray.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve wrapped individual cookie slices in clear cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbons to make darling edible gifts. Laying the slices out on tiered dessert stands also makes the colors pop and adds instant wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Church Window Cookies in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh and chewy for up to a week. The coconut and marshmallows stay soft, and the chocolate stays firm but melts delightfully when you enjoy them.

Freezing

I’ve frozen the uncut logs wrapped tightly in wax paper and then placed in a freezer bag. When I’m ready for a treat, I thaw them in the fridge overnight and slice for fresh cookies that taste just like day one.

Reheating

Since these are no-bake, I usually enjoy them chilled or at room temperature. But if you want a melty treat, you can microwave a slice for about 8–10 seconds—it softens the chocolate and marshmallow just right without turning messy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

These Church Window Cookies Recipe has a special place in my heart and kitchen because they bring back so many warm memories and smiles. They’re simple enough that you’ll enjoy making them anytime, yet festive enough to impress guests and family alike. Trust me, once you try these, your cookie lineup won’t be complete without them. Go ahead and give them a whirl—you’ll love how they brighten up your baking routine with such little effort!

Print