Cathedral Windows, also known as Church Window Cookies, is a simple and festive no‑bake chocolate marshmallow log. This colorful holiday treat is quick to prepare and makes a charming addition to Christmas parties, cookie trays, or homemade gift boxes.
Below you’ll find a printable-style recipe for this Chocolate Marshmallow Log along with clear, step‑by‑step instructions, helpful tips, and a few variations to customize the flavor. The recipe is forgiving, fast to assemble, and requires no baking—perfect for busy holiday days or classrooms where ovens aren’t available.
This old‑fashioned favorite goes by several names—Church Window Cookies, Yuletide Slice, Stained Glass Candy, or simply Chocolate Marshmallow Roll—but whatever you call it, the combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and coconut is always a crowd pleaser.
Chocolate Marshmallow Log | An Easy No‑Bake Christmas Treat
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
- 1 1/2 squares semi‑sweet chocolate (about 1.5 ounces total)
- 1 egg (optional; can be omitted for an egg‑free version)
- 2 cups powdered (confectioners’) sugar
- 1 package small colored mini marshmallows
- 1 package flaked coconut (for coating)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Step 1: Melt the butter and chocolate
Combine the butter and chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Melt using a microwave in short bursts (for example, 1 minute, stir, then 30 seconds more as needed) or use a double boiler on the stovetop. Stir until smooth and fully combined. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.
Step 2: Add powdered sugar and egg (optional)
Allow the melted mixture to cool slightly so it isn’t too hot, then stir in the powdered sugar. If you choose to use an egg, add it now and beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If you prefer to avoid raw egg in a no‑bake treat, simply omit the egg—the texture will still be fine.
Step 3: Fold in the marshmallows
Add the entire package of mini colored marshmallows and, if using, the chopped nuts. Stir gently until the marshmallows are evenly coated with the chocolate mixture. The marshmallows create the bright, stained‑glass effect when you slice the log.
Step 4: Prepare the coconut bed
Spread a generous layer of flaked coconut over a large sheet of wax or parchment paper. Use large flaked coconut for texture and a snowy holiday appearance, and don’t be shy—more coconut helps create a neat outside coating for the log.
Step 5: Shape the log and coat with coconut
Spoon the marshmallow mixture onto the center of the coconut layer. Wet your hands with hot water to prevent sticking and shape the mixture into a tight log. Press additional coconut onto the surface as you roll the log in the paper to achieve a complete coating. Wrap the log snugly in the paper.
Step 6: Chill and slice
Refrigerate the wrapped log for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once chilled, slice the log into 1/4‑inch to 1/2‑inch rounds to display the marshmallow colors like tiny stained‑glass windows. Arrange the slices on a platter for serving.
These cookies are soft, chewy, and visually festive—an easy way to add homemade charm to your holiday cookie assortment. They keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days, and can be made a day in advance for stress‑free entertaining.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas
- Make it nut‑free by omitting the optional nuts—ideal for school treats or allergy‑friendly platters.
- For an adult twist, add a teaspoon of espresso powder or a tablespoon of liqueur (such as Kahlúa) to the chocolate before mixing.
- Try shredded white chocolate instead of coconut for a different exterior texture.
- Slice thinly and serve with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a holiday dessert plate.
- Package slices between parchment in a gift tin for a thoughtful homemade present.
Recipe Summary & Nutrition
Yield: about 24 slices. Prep time: 10 minutes active; chill time: at least 30 minutes. Total time: approximately 40 minutes.
Approximate nutrition per serving (one slice): Calories 119; Total Fat 7g; Saturated Fat 4g; Cholesterol 18mg; Sodium 52mg; Carbohydrates 14g; Fiber 1g; Sugar 12g; Protein 1g.
This Chocolate Marshmallow Log, or Church Window Cookies, is an effortless no‑bake holiday classic that’s colorful, nostalgic, and ready in minutes. It’s ideal for families, classroom parties, or anyone looking for an easy seasonal treat that looks as good as it tastes.
If you’d like to keep a printable version of this recipe, copy the ingredients and steps above into your favorite notes app or print directly from this page for a kitchen‑friendly reference.