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Easter Cathedral Cookies: A Simple and Stunning Easter Treat
Easter is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious treats! If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is easy to make, look no further than Easter Cathedral Cookies. This delightful recipe requires only three ingredients and is perfect for Easter celebrations, baby showers, or any festive occasion. Not only are these cookies visually stunning, but they’re also a fun activity to make with kids. In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating these colorful, coconut-covered treats, along with tips, nutritional information, and why they’re a must-try this Easter season.
Why You’ll Love Easter Cathedral Cookies
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why Easter Cathedral Cookies are such a hit:
- Only 3 Ingredients: With just vanilla-flavored CandiQuik Almond Bark, sweetened coconut flakes, and colored marshmallows, this recipe is incredibly simple.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love helping with this recipe, from mixing the marshmallows to rolling the log.
- Perfect for Easter: The pastel-colored marshmallows and coconut coating make these cookies a festive addition to your Easter table.
- Quick and Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of chilling, these cookies are ready in no time.
- Versatile: While perfect for Easter, these cookies can also be customized for other holidays or events by changing the colors of the marshmallows.
Ingredients for Easter Cathedral Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful treats:
- 8 oz Vanilla Flavored CandiQuik Almond Bark or Melting Wafers: This is the base that holds the cookies together and adds a sweet, creamy flavor.
- 2 Cups Sweetened Coconut Flakes: The coconut adds a tropical touch and creates the beautiful “cathedral” effect.
- 6 oz Colored Marshmallows: Use pastel-colored marshmallows for Easter or customize the colors for other occasions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Base
Start by spreading out a large piece of plastic wrap (about 14 inches by 9 inches) on your counter. Sprinkle the sweetened coconut flakes evenly over the plastic wrap. This will form the outer layer of your cookies, so make sure it’s spread out nicely.
Step 2: Melt the Candy Coating
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the vanilla-flavored CandiQuik Almond Bark or melting wafers according to the package instructions. Be sure to stir the coating every 30 seconds to avoid burning.
Step 3: Coat the Marshmallows
Place the colored marshmallows in a medium-sized bowl. Once the candy coating is melted, pour it over the marshmallows. Gently stir until all the marshmallows are evenly coated.
Step 4: Form the Log
Pour the marshmallow mixture down the center of the coconut-covered plastic wrap. Using the plastic wrap, gently lift one long side and fold it over the marshmallow mixture, shaping it into a log. Roll the log gently to ensure the coconut sticks to the outside.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the candy coating to harden and make slicing easier.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once the log is firm, remove it from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch pieces. Arrange the cookies on a serving platter and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Easter Cathedral Cookies
- Use Fresh Coconut: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh sweetened coconut flakes.
- Customize the Colors: Swap out pastel marshmallows for red and green for Christmas or orange and black for Halloween.
- Add Extras: For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the sliced cookies or sprinkle with edible glitter.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (1 cookie):
- Calories: 109kcal
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Sodium: 29mg
- Potassium: 26mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 13g
- Calcium: 1mg
- Iron: 1mg
Why Easter Cathedral Cookies Are Perfect for Easter
Easter is all about bright colors, sweet treats, and spending time with loved ones. Easter Cathedral Cookies embody all of these elements. The pastel-colored marshmallows and snowy coconut coating make them a visually stunning addition to your Easter dessert table. Plus, their simplicity means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday with your family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Unsweetened Coconut?
Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut if you prefer a less sweet cookie. However, sweetened coconut adds a nice balance to the candy coating.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! These cookies can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Can I Freeze Easter Cathedral Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the log before slicing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing.
What Can I Use Instead of CandiQuik?
If you can’t find CandiQuik, you can use white chocolate chips or vanilla almond bark as a substitute.
The History and Significance of Cathedral Cookies
Cathedral cookies, also known as stained glass cookies, have a rich history that dates back to European traditions. These cookies are named for their resemblance to the intricate stained glass windows found in cathedrals, with their colorful fillings and delicate appearance. The concept of using colorful candies or marshmallows to mimic stained glass has been adapted over the years, making these cookies a popular choice for holidays and special occasions.
The Easter Cathedral Cookies recipe is a modern twist on this classic treat, incorporating pastel-colored marshmallows to align with the festive colors of Easter. The use of coconut adds a tropical flair, while the vanilla candy coating provides a smooth, sweet base that complements the marshmallows perfectly. This recipe is not only a nod to tradition but also a creative way to celebrate the season.
Easter itself is a time of renewal and joy, and these cookies embody that spirit. The bright colors symbolize the blooming of spring, while the simplicity of the recipe reflects the ease and warmth of family gatherings. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch or looking for a fun activity to do with kids, Easter Cathedral Cookies are a delightful way to bring everyone together.
Tips for Making Easter Cathedral Cookies with Kids
One of the best things about Easter Cathedral Cookies is how kid-friendly they are. Involving children in the kitchen can be a fun and educational experience, and this recipe is perfect for little helpers. Here are some tips to make the process enjoyable and mess-free:
- Assign Age-Appropriate Tasks: Younger kids can help measure and pour the coconut flakes, while older children can assist with melting the candy coating and stirring the marshmallows. Let them take ownership of their tasks to build confidence.
- Use Pastel Colors: Kids love bright, festive colors, so let them pick out the marshmallows or even add a few sprinkles for extra sparkle. This makes the cookies feel personalized and special.
- Make It a Learning Experience: Use this opportunity to teach kids about measurements, melting points, and the science behind how the candy coating hardens. It’s a great way to combine fun and education.
- Prepare for Mess: Cooking with kids can get messy, so lay down parchment paper or a silicone mat to make cleanup easier. Have wet wipes or a damp cloth handy for sticky fingers.
- Celebrate Their Work: Once the cookies are done, let the kids arrange them on a platter and proudly serve them to family and friends. This boosts their sense of accomplishment and makes the experience memorable.
By involving kids in the process, you’re not just making cookies – you’re creating lasting memories and traditions that they’ll cherish for years to come.
Creative Variations of Easter Cathedral Cookies
While the classic Easter Cathedral Cookies recipe is a crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some creative variations to try:
- Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Swap the vanilla candy coating for chocolate almond bark or melting wafers. Pair it with chocolate marshmallows or add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent treat.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or pistachios to the coconut layer for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of contrast in their desserts.
- Fruity Delight: Mix in dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or raisins with the marshmallows for a burst of natural sweetness and chewiness. This adds a healthy twist to the recipe.
- Seasonal Themes: While pastel colors are ideal for Easter, you can adapt this recipe for other holidays. Use red and green marshmallows for Christmas, orange and black for Halloween, or red and pink for Valentine’s Day.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they meet dietary requirements.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan marshmallows and dairy-free candy coating to make this recipe suitable for a vegan diet.
These variations allow you to experiment with flavors and textures while keeping the core simplicity of the recipe intact. Whether you stick to the classic version or try something new, Easter Cathedral Cookies are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed year-round.
Each of these sections provides unique insights into the history, preparation, and customization of Easter Cathedral Cookies, making them a truly special addition to your Easter celebrations!
Easter Cathedral Cookies: A Simple and Stunning Easter Treat
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- Prep Time: 5 min
- Total Time: 5 min
Ingredients
- 8 oz Vanilla CandiQuik Almond Bark (or melting wafers)
- 2 cups sweetened coconut flakes
- 6 oz colored marshmallows
Instructions
1️⃣ Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap and spread coconut over a 14×9-inch area.
2️⃣ Place the marshmallows in a bowl.
3️⃣ Melt the candy coating and pour it over the marshmallows, stirring to coat evenly.
4️⃣ Spread the mixture down the center of the coconut.
5️⃣ Using the plastic wrap, shape it into a log with coconut all around.
6️⃣ Roll it up tightly, wrap it well, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
7️⃣ Slice and serve! Store in an airtight container.
Notes
✅ Use pastel-colored marshmallows for a festive Easter look!
✅ Swap vanilla almond bark with white chocolate for a richer taste.
✅ Want a nutty twist? Add chopped pecans or almonds before rolling.
✅ These cookies store well in the fridge for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Calories: 109 kcal per Serving
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 29mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
Final Thoughts
Easter Cathedral Cookies are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for Easter or any festive occasion. With just three ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookies are a great way to add a touch of sweetness to your holiday celebrations. Whether you’re making them with kids or simply looking for a quick dessert, these cookies are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try – your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!
Recipe Summary
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling)
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories: 109kcal per serving
Enjoy making and sharing these beautiful Easter Cathedral Cookies this holiday season