As the seasons change and special occasions arise, our appetites shift towards something vibrant, bold, and Instagram-worthy. What better way to delight your guests than with a colorful display of edible masterpieces? Enter Cathedral Window recipes – an array of visually stunning treats that will leave everyone in awe.
From refreshing fruit salads to decadent desserts, our collection of 19 Cathedral Window recipes is sure to tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, holiday gathering, or simply want to add some excitement to your everyday meals, these show-stopping creations are the perfect solution.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through a kaleidoscope of flavors and textures as we explore the world of Cathedral Window recipes. Get ready to be inspired by these 19 colorful concoctions that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Rainbow Cathedral Window Gelatin Dessert
This vibrant dessert is a perfect treat for any occasion, featuring layers of gelatin, fruit juice, and whipped cream. With its unique cathedral window design, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup mixed fruit juice (such as pineapple, orange, and grapefruit)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– Food coloring (red, yellow, blue, green)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine boiling water and gelatin. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Divide the fruit juice into 4 parts and add a few drops of food coloring to each part to achieve the desired colors (red, yellow, blue, green).
4. Pour 1/2 cup of the gelatin mixture into a 9×13-inch dish.
5. Arrange a layer of fruit juice on top of the gelatin mixture.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 two more times, ending with a layer of gelatin mixture.
7. Top with whipped cream and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: None
Stained Glass Cathedral Window Cookies
These vibrant cookies are perfect for any occasion, with their beautiful stained glass design and sweet, buttery flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Food coloring (red, blue, and yellow)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Add a few drops of food coloring to create the desired colors (red, blue, and yellow).
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir until combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vibrant Cathedral Window Fruit Salad
Brighten up your table with this stunning fruit salad that resembles a cathedral window. A medley of colorful fruits, crunchy textures, and zesty flavors come together to create a truly show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh kiwi, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup fresh grapes, halved
– 1/2 cup granola
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pineapple, strawberries, kiwi, and grapes.
2. Sprinkle granola over the fruit mixture.
3. Drizzle with lime juice and honey; gently toss to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Classic Cathedral Window Jello Mold
This iconic dessert is a showstopper at any gathering, with its colorful layers and transparent gelatin windows. A simple yet impressive treat to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup cherry juice
– 1/4 cup grated orange zest
– Food coloring (optional)
– Fresh fruit slices or whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, pineapple juice, and cherry juice. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
4. Add orange zest and food coloring (if using) to the mixture. Stir well.
5. Pour 1/2 of the gelatin mixture into a 9×13-inch pan or mold. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
6. Pour remaining gelatin mixture over the set layer. Refrigerate for another 3-4 hours, or until firm.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake treat.
Festive Cathedral Window Trifle
A show-stopping dessert perfect for the holiday season, this trifle is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ladyfingers
– 1 cup of strong brewed coffee
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, brew the coffee according to package instructions.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
4. In another bowl, whisk together heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone cheese until well combined.
6. Assemble the trifle by layering ladyfingers, mascarpone mixture, and mixed berries in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Tropical Cathedral Window Pudding
Experience the warm, sunny flavors of the tropics with this vibrant and creamy pudding. Perfect for hot summer days or as a show-stopping dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup mixed tropical fruit (such as pineapple, mango, and kiwi)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in tropical fruit and shredded coconut.
4. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Layered Cathedral Window Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this stunning layered cheesecake that resembles a cathedral window. This show-stopping treat is perfect for special occasions or as a impressive addition to your holiday spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup crushed raspberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in sour cream and confectioners’ sugar.
5. Pour batter into prepared crust and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Allow cheesecake to cool completely before assembling the cathedral window effect.
7. Top with crushed raspberries to create the layered design.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes + cooling time
Sparkling Cathedral Window Punch
A refreshing and flavorful punch perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions, this Sparkling Cathedral Window Punch is a beautiful blend of juices, garnishes, and fizz. With its vibrant colors and fruity aroma, it’s sure to be the star of your next party.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– Slices of orange, lemon, lime, and cherry for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice and orange juice.
2. Stir in the ginger ale and lemon-lime soda until well combined.
3. Add the sparkling water and stir gently to prevent foaming.
4. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Just before serving, garnish with slices of citrus fruits and cherries.
Cooking Time: None! This is a refreshing beverage that’s ready to serve immediately.
Mini Cathedral Window Cupcakes
Elevate your baking game with these stunning mini cupcakes featuring a delicate cathedral window design. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or nonpareils for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before decorating with colored sprinkles or nonpareils.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Cathedral Window Marshmallows
These show-stopping treats combine the classic campfire favorite with a touch of elegance. By dipping marshmallow cathedral windows in rich chocolate, you’ll create a sweet and indulgent treat perfect for special occasions or everyday snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of large marshmallows
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup of water
– Food coloring (optional)
– White chocolate chips or candy melts
– Dark or semisweet chocolate chips or bars
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Add food coloring if desired.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Let set at room temperature for at least 24 hours or until firm to the touch.
6. Cut the marshmallow mixture into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or knife.
7. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
8. Dip the marshmallow shapes into the melted white chocolate, coating completely.
9. Place dipped marshmallows on parchment paper-lined surface. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
10. Melt dark or semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
11. Dip the chilled white chocolate-covered marshmallows into the melted dark or semisweet chocolate, coating completely.
12. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 24 hours (setting time) + 10-15 minutes (dipping and setting time)
Pastel Cathedral Window Macarons
These delicate French meringue-based cookies are a showstopper with their intricate designs and pastel colors. This recipe guides you through the process of making these stunning macarons, perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 1/2 cups (200g) powdered sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– Food coloring (pastel shades)
– Filling of your choice (e.g., buttercream, ganache)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue whipping until smooth.
4. Add food coloring, one drop at a time, to achieve desired pastel shades.
5. Fold the colored mixture into the almond flour mixture until combined.
6. Pipe small circles onto prepared baking sheet and tap gently to remove air bubbles.
7. Allow shells to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking for 15-20 minutes or until firm to touch.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cathedral Window Icebox Cake
A show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make, this Cathedral Window Icebox Cake is a perfect treat for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup sweetened whipped cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 12-16 ladyfingers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together sweetened whipped cream, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Fold the sweetened whipped cream mixture into the heavy cream until well combined.
4. Stir in crushed pineapple and shredded coconut.
5. Cut ladyfingers in half lengthwise.
6. Dip each ladyfinger half into the whipped cream mixture, coating both sides evenly.
7. Assemble the cake by placing a ladyfinger half on a serving plate, then topping with a layer of whipped cream, repeating until all ingredients are used up.
8. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (no baking required)
Glittering Cathedral Window Cake Pops
A sweet treat that’s almost too beautiful to eat! These cake pops are a creative twist on traditional cupcakes, featuring a moist vanilla cake coated in white chocolate and decorated with edible glitter and cathedral window design.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla cake mix
– 1 cup of white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1/2 cup of whole milk
– 1 large egg
– Edible glitter and luster dust (color of choice)
– Candy melts or white chocolate for decorating
Instructions:
1. Bake the cake according to package instructions.
2. Allow the cake to cool, then crumble it into a bowl.
3. Mix in powdered sugar, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
4. Add milk and egg, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into small balls.
6. Dip each ball into melted white chocolate, coating completely.
7. Sprinkle edible glitter on top of each cake pop while still wet.
8. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cake baking time), 30 minutes (cooking and setting time)
Cathedral Window Pavlova with Fresh Berries
A classic Australian dessert, pavlova is a meringue-based masterpiece that’s perfect for special occasions. This Cathedral Window version adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal with fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar and whip until stiff peaks form.
4. Sift flour and salt over the meringue mixture and gently fold until no streaks remain.
5. Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet in a rectangular shape.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until crisp and dry.
7. Allow to cool completely.
8. Top with whipped cream and fresh berries.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Citrusy Cathedral Window Sorbet
This vibrant sorbet is a refreshing twist on traditional citrus flavors, with its unique cathedral window pattern adding visual appeal to any gathering. Perfect for warm weather or as a palate cleanser between courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Food coloring (optional)
– Ice pop molds or a metal sorbet mold
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine orange and grapefruit juices, sugar, and water.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Pour mixture into ice pop molds or a metal sorbet mold, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
5. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the sorbet.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus freezing time)
Cathedral Window Meringue Kisses
Create a stunning dessert with these delicate meringue kisses, featuring a colorful cathedral window design. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• Food coloring (pink, yellow, blue)
• Confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Divide the mixture into three portions. Add a few drops of each food coloring to create pink, yellow, and blue hues.
5. Spoon small mounds of each color onto the prepared baking sheet, forming an alternating pattern.
6. Use a knife or spatula to gently swirl the colors together, creating a cathedral window design.
7. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until crisp and dry.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Cathedral Window Chiffon Pie
This classic dessert recipe yields a light-as-air pie with a delicate, whipped cream filling and a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg whites
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
3. Press the dough into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming edges to fit.
4. Bake crust for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Allow the crust to cool completely.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
7. Fold whipped cream into the egg mixture until fully incorporated.
8. Pour filling into cooled pie crust and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (crust) + 2 hours (filing)
Cathedral Window Parfait with Yogurt
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this stunning Cathedral Window Parfait featuring creamy yogurt, sweet fruit, and crunchy granola. This visually appealing treat is perfect for a special occasion or just a Tuesday.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Cut the mixed berries in half or quartered, depending on their size.
3. Layer the ingredients in a glass or parfait dish:
+ Bottom layer: Crushed vanilla wafers
+ Middle layer: Yogurt mixture
+ Top layer: Mixed berries
4. Sprinkle granola over the berries.
5. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with granola on top.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This parfait is ready in under 10 minutes.
Cathedral Window Candy Bark
Cathedral Window Candy Bark: A Colorful Treat with a Sweet Surprise!
This recipe combines rich chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and colorful candy melts to create a stunning cathedral window effect. Perfect for special occasions or as a fun treat for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup colored candy melts (pink, yellow, blue)
– 1/2 cup pretzel rods, crushed
– 1 tablespoon shortening (like Crisco or coconut oil)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Pour the melted milk chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to form a thin layer.
4. Sprinkle crushed pretzels over the chocolate layer.
5. Melt the white chocolate chips and candy melts separately.
6. Drizzle the melted white chocolate and candy melts in a zig-zag pattern over the pretzel layer.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these stunning Cathedral Window recipes! Perfect for special occasions, these colorful and creative desserts are sure to be a hit. From Rainbow Cathedral Window Gelatin Dessert to Chocolate-Dipped Cathedral Window Marshmallows, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a classic Jello Mold or a show-stopping Cake Pop, this collection of 19 recipes will guide you every step of the way. So go ahead and get creative – your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!