Witch finger cookies
What would Halloween be without a few creepy treats? With this recipe for Halloween witch finger cookies, you are bringing something sweet and seriously spooky to the table! They are crisp, tasty, and shaped and decorated to look just like real fingers. Whether you are baking for a Halloween party or a scary movie night, these cookies are sure to thrill.
Ingredients
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125 g
Plain flour
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2 tbsp
Sugar
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1 tsp
Vanilla extract
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100 g
Butter
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1
Egg yolk
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1 tbsp
Syrup
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2 tbsp
Raspberry jam
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10
Almonds, halved
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Cocoa powder
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Instructions
Recipe tips
It’s often the small details that make the biggest impact in the kitchen, so we’re sharing the tips we rely on when cooking and creating recipes
Keep an eye on the witch finger cookies and make note when the edges or bottoms turn lightly golden, but the tops stay pale. That is your cue to take them out. They will firm up as they cool. Start checking around the 8-minute mark at 200 °C. Avoid over-baking to keep their realistic look and tender crumb, which highlights the details like knuckle and nail markings.
Roll the dough into slim logs, just a bit thicker than a real finger. Gently pinch in two spots to form knobby knuckles, then use a small, sharp knife to score lines for wrinkles that will pick up the cocoa powder later for a shadowy effect. Flatten the tip slightly, add a little raspberry jam for a bloody base, and press in a halved almond for the nail. You can trim the almonds to make them look jagged and more realistic.
FAQ: Questions about witch finger cookies
Want to make the best witch finger cookies with all the spooky details? We have answered the most common questions to help you get the look just right.
How long should I chill the dough before shaping?
Chill the dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This firms it up, making it easier to shape and helping the cookies hold their form in the oven. If the dough still feels too soft or sticky, leave it for up to an hour. In warmer kitchens, you can also pop the shaped fingers in the freezer for 5 minutes before baking.
What do I do if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If your cookie dough is too crumbly, it probably needs more moisture or fat. Start by adding 1 tablespoon of softened butter and knead gently until it begins to bind together. If it is still dry, slowly mix in a teaspoon of cold water or milk, but be careful not to make it sticky. Make sure the butter is cool and well mixed to avoid dry spots. Only knead the dough until it is smooth to keep it from becoming tough.
How do I store witch finger cookies?
Store witch finger cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. With raspberry jam, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days; without it, they will last up to a week. To stop them from sticking, especially with jam, layer them with parchment paper.
Can I freeze witch finger cookies?
Yes, you can freeze witch finger cookies, either fully baked or as unbaked dough. To freeze baked cookies, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. If they have jam or sticky decorations, separate them with parchment paper. They will keep for up to 3 months, but for the best texture, consume them within 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat briefly if needed. To freeze unbaked dough, shape the fingers first and freeze until solid. Store the fingers in an airtight container or bag. Thaw them before baking, and add the jam and almonds afterwards to avoid sogginess.
Nutritional values
Nutritional value, per
1199 Kcal
| Fibre | - | 3.8 gram fibers |
| Protein | 3.5 | 10.2 gram |
| Fat | 67.6 | 91.7 gram |
| Carbohydrates | 28.9 | 85.4 gram |
Recommended information
Serving suggestion
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Creepy and delicious witch finger cookies
Make your Halloween spread truly magical with these witch finger cookies that are equal parts eerie and irresistible. Each cookie is carefully sculpted to mimic the bony, knobby shape of a witch’s finger, complete with realistic details that make them look like they were plucked straight from a real-life witch. No matter if you are hosting a haunted house gathering or just want to surprise trick-or-treaters, these cookies are guaranteed to grab attention.
Buttery cookies with a crisp bite
The dough is similar to a classic shortbread but uses egg yolk and syrup for a slightly softer, richer texture. It still bakes up with a crisp edge and tender centre, helping the fingers hold their shape so every knuckle and wrinkle stands out. The subtle sweetness and hint of vanilla give the cookies a pleasant, melt-in-the-mouth quality that contrasts deliciously with the crunch of the almonds.
Almond nails and raspberry blood for a life-like look
Every witch finger gets its signature creepy charm from clever, slightly macabre detailing. With sharp almond nails and sticky raspberry blood, they look disturbingly real, perfect for shocking your Halloween guests in the best way. The different textures of crunchy almonds, soft jam, and deep grooves dusted with cocoa powder add to the effect. You can always add a little more jam if you like the berry sweetness it brings.
Pair with other scary party-friendly treats
Serve your witch finger cookies alongside other Halloween-themed treats like brain cupcakes or Halloween apples. Add a bubbling cauldron of punch and some spooky decorations, and you have a table that is both festive and fun. Pairing the cookies with other creative bakes turns them into part of a complete Halloween experience that is just as exciting for adults as it is for kids, because a sweet tooth knows no age.
Change the colours, shapes, and more
Bring out the spell book and put on your apron; now is the time to get creative. For a goblin- or zombie-inspired look, knead the dough in green food colouring; for ancient, scorched fingers, use cocoa powder in the dough to achieve a mottled, dirty effect. That way, you get a diverse set of fingers that invoke a more cartoonish look, which is great for the younger kids.
You can also give your witch finger cookies extra flavour by mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. They fit perfectly with the Halloween vibe and add a warm, autumnal note. Lemon zest brings a fresh, fruity touch that works well with the crisp texture. For even more lemon flavour, add a little fresh juice to the dough.
Almonds can be swapped for pumpkin seeds to make warped, witchy nails, or even for shards of dark chocolate for a more stylised twist. You can also alter the shapes entirely to create ogre thumbs, claw-like monster hands, or even skeletal toes for variety. Edible glitter or coloured sugar can add a magical shimmer. These ideas make it easy to tailor your witch finger cookies to any spooky theme you dream up.
