Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

• Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Step 3: Prepare the Candies

• Unwrap the hard candies and separate them by color. Place each color in a zip-top bag and crush them into small pieces using a rolling pin.

Step 4: Roll and Cut the Cookies

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Roll out one portion of dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
• Use a large cookie cutter to cut out shapes, then use a smaller cutter to remove the center of each cookie. Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets.

Step 5: Add the “Stained Glass” Centers

• Fill the center of each cookie with crushed candy, spreading it evenly but not overflowing the edges.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

• Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the candy centers are melted.
• Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets before removing them.

Step 7: Decorate (Optional)

• Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar or add edible glitter for extra sparkle.

Step 8: Serve and Store

• Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.