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Spooky Witch Finger Cookies with Almond Nails: Easy Halloween Treat

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These spooky witch finger cookies are a fun and easy Halloween treat made with a buttery shortbread base and almond ‘nails’. Perfect for parties, they are deliciously creepy and sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Whole almonds, about 48 pieces
  • Red food coloring or strawberry jam (for ‘blood’ effect)

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until just combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  7. Shape about 1 tablespoon of dough into a 3-inch log, tapering one end to look like a fingertip. Place on prepared baking sheet.
  8. Use the back of a small knife or toothpick to press 2-3 horizontal lines into each finger to create knuckle creases.
  9. Press a whole almond into the tapered end of each finger, pointed side out, until half embedded.
  10. Optionally, use a toothpick to create small lines around the base of the almond for cuticles.
  11. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until just set and edges are lightly golden.
  12. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  13. Once cooled, dab a tiny amount of red food coloring or strawberry jam at the base of each almond ‘nail’ for a bloody effect.

Notes

Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent spreading. Keep hands cool while shaping. Vary finger shapes for realism. Use a tiny amount of red coloring or jam for the ‘blood’ effect. Cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween cookies, witch finger cookies, shortbread cookies, almond cookies, spooky treats, easy Halloween dessert

Find it online: https://ariaappetite.com/spooky-witch-finger-cookies-with-almond-nails-easy-halloween-treat/