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Witch Finger Cookies

These Witch Finger Cookies are flaky, buttery treats shaped like creepy fingers with almond nails, making for a spooky Halloween dessert. They combine tender, crisp pastry with realistic almond details, resulting in a fun and spooky edible project. The final cookies have a delicate crunch with realistic, eerie appearance.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Halloween
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 12 slivered almonds almond nails for the creepy claws
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips melted, for a little shine if desired
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar for dusting and adding a spooky ash effect

Equipment

  • mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until creamy and pale, and the mixture is fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the bowl, and beat until fully incorporated. The dough will become smooth and slightly glossy.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
  4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or folding until a soft, shaggy dough forms. The dough should come together easily without being sticky.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to relax the gluten and make it easier to shape.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  7. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin, elongated finger shape, tapering the ends to resemble a creepy fingernail.
  8. Place the shaped fingers onto the prepared baking sheet flat-side down, leaving space between each for spreading slightly.
  9. Gently press a slivered almond onto one end of each finger to mimic a creepy, pointed nail. Use the tip of a knife or toothpick to create tiny cracks or veins for added realism if desired.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until they are golden brown around the edges and the nails look slightly crisp. Keep an ear out for a gentle crunch sound as they bake.
  11. Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely to maintain their flaky texture.
  12. Once cooled, melt the white chocolate chips and lightly brush or drizzle over the fingers for a glossy, eerie finish. Dust lightly with powdered sugar to mimic ash and add a spooky effect. Serve and enjoy these creepy, flaky treats!

Notes

For extra realism, refrigerate the shaped fingers before baking to prevent spreading. Use natural food colorings or cocoa powder for tinted effects if desired. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies should remain tender with a crisp edge.