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Crispy Black Cat Halloween Sugar Cookies

crispy black cat halloween sugar cookies - featured image

These crispy black cat Halloween sugar cookies are a fun, spooky party treat that combines simple pantry staples with a unique crisp texture. Perfect for Halloween, they feature a buttery snap and are decorated with royal icing to create striking cat silhouettes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons black gel food coloring
  • White royal icing (for decorating)
  • Yellow gel food coloring (for eyes)
  • White sprinkles or edible glitter (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed for 2 minutes until light, fluffy, and pale.
  2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating on medium speed for 1 minute until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed, mixing just until the dough comes together (1-2 minutes). Do not overmix.
  5. Add the black gel food coloring and mix on low speed until the dough is a uniform dark color.
  6. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or freeze for 15 minutes if in a hurry).
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out cat shapes and place on prepared sheets, leaving 1 inch of space between cookies.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and slightly golden. Rotate pans halfway through.
  10. Cool cookies on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Prepare white royal icing by beating egg whites (or meringue powder) with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Tint a small portion yellow.
  12. Pipe white icing for the muzzle, whiskers, and eye outlines. Use yellow icing for pupils. Let dry completely.

Notes

Use gel food coloring instead of liquid to prevent the dough from becoming watery and spreading too much. Ensure butter is softened but not melted. Chill dough thoroughly to maintain shape. Cookies continue to cook on the hot pan after removal, so pull them when edges are just set but centers look slightly soft.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween cookies, sugar cookies, black cat cookies, crispy cookies, party treats, holiday baking, royal icing