In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla until blended. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.

Divide the dough into two portions, flatten each into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out one disc of dough to about ¼ inch thick. Cut out shapes and remove centers with smaller cutters. Place on a lined baking sheet.

Fill each cookie center with crushed hard candies, ensuring not to overfill. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are golden.

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack for complete cooling.