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Witch Finger Cookies

Witch finger cookies are crispy, almond-flavored sugar cookies shaped into eerie finger-like shapes with added almond nails and blood-red jam drips for a spooky effect. They have a crunchy exterior and tender interior, resembling creepy fingers perfect for Halloween celebrations. The recipe involves mixing, shaping, baking, and decorating to achieve their distinctive appearance.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup almond slivers for fingernails
  • 3 tablespoons red jam for blood drips

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, and smells sweet and buttery.
  2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined, resulting in a creamy, cohesive mixture.
  3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together and is stiff but pliable.
  4. Divide the dough in half, then shape each portion into a long, thin cylinder about 12 inches long. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to relax the dough.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unwrap the chilled dough and cut into ¼-inch thick slices.
  6. With your hands, roll each slice into a skinny finger shape, tapering the ends slightly to resemble real fingers. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing well apart.
  7. Gently press an almond sliver into the top of each finger as the fingernail. Use a small knife or toothpick to create a knuckle ridge for extra realism.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven until the fingers are golden brown and slightly crisp, about 12-15 minutes.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool briefly until firm enough to handle without breaking.
  10. Using a small squeeze bottle or a toothpick, carefully add blood-red jam to the base of each finger for a bloody effect.
  11. Serve these creepy, crunchy witch fingers on a platter for a spooky and fun Halloween treat.

Notes

Chilling the dough helps it hold its shape during baking. Be careful when attaching the almond nails, and feel free to add a bit more jam for a bloodier effect.