For the Love of Cookies

Cookies with a “glass window” are pretty cool and you can achieve the effect in several different ways. A popular method uses isomalt, but many people dislike its taste and very harsh texture. Recently I saw bakers using a different approach, crushing mint candies and using the powder in the final stages of baking. I was intrigued and gave it a try. When I did it, the “glass” was not always crystal clear. I think it depends on how long you bake it and the temperature, but even if a little cloudy, the taste justifies using it. Delicious, subtle mint flavor, and dissolves in your mouth like candy does. Here are some of my recent bakes with it.

I started from very large heart-shaped cookie cutters, so that I had enough space to work on the “glass” surface. First order of business is to make the candy powder. I eyeballed the amount, used about 10 candies and it was enough for all the cookies I made that day, with plenty of leftover.

The mint candy I like is this one. You can probably use other types, as long as they are clear. Of course, if you want to use a colored window, other flavors might work, but I rather use clear and dye with my own colors. For these cookies, I went with clear windows. Once the powder is done, you add it to the cookies once they have been in the oven baking for about 9 minutes into the 13 to 15 min total baking time. The powder will bubble a bit and then settle once it is out of the oven.

Keep in mind that to have a smooth surface, it is best not to use perforated matts for this type of bake. Go with a silpat. I have not tried to bake straight on a baking sheet, not sure how that will work to remove the cookie without breaking the clear component. Using Silpat is the safest option.

I just love the see-through effect…

.

.

It also works with other shapes, like the snowflake, just couple it with a smaller cookie cutter to create the opening…

A perfect cookie to celebrate Valentine’s Day!