Step 1

Unwrap and separate Jolly Ranchers into each color then place in separate small resealable bags. Crush into small bits (not powder) using a meat mallet, set aside.

Step 2

In the bowl of an electric stand mixer cream together butter, sugar and salt until well combined.

Step 3

Mix in eggs one at a time then blend in vanilla.

Step 4

With mixer set on low speed slowly add in flour and mix until well combined.

Step 5

Scrape dough out and shape into a rectangle, wrap in plastic wrap and and chill 1 hour.

Step 6

Cut chilled dough into thirds. Leave one portion out to work with and chill remaining.

Step 7

Roll dough out onto a floured surface (about 1/5-inch thick). Cut out as many large stars as possible using a star shape cookie cutter (approx. 3.5-inch stars).

Step 8

Transfer cut stars to baking sheet lined with a silicone baking mat*. Cut a smaller star (using a 1.75-inch star cutter) from the center of each and remove**. Re-roll and cut scrap dough.

Step 9

Fill cut out centers about 3/4 of the way with crushed jolly ranchers. Chill cookies in refrigerator until firm, about 15 - 20 minutes. Meanwhile preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Step 10

Bake cookies until set and candy center has melted, about 12 - 14 minutes.

Step 11

Let cool on baking sheet until Jolly Ranchers have set and hardened. Repeat process with remaining refrigerated dough. Store in an airtight container.