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Spooky Witch Finger Cookies with Almond Nails: Easy Halloween Treat

witch finger cookies - featured image

These buttery, slightly sweet shortbread cookies are shaped like creepy witch fingers with almond nails. They’re quick to make, require no chilling, and are the perfect spooky treat for Halloween parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 ½ cups (312g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Whole almonds (about 48, for the “nails”)
  • Red food coloring (optional, for “blood” effect)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the egg and almond extract; beat until fully combined, about 30 seconds.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  6. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough per finger. Roll into a log about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick.
  7. Place each log on the prepared baking sheet. Taper one end to create a fingertip shape; flatten slightly.
  8. Using a sharp knife, press 2-3 lines into the dough at the knuckle points to create knuckle marks.
  9. Press one whole almond firmly into the tapered end of each finger for the nail.
  10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until just barely golden on the bottom and edges are set. Cookies should remain pale on top.
  11. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  12. Optional: Mix red food coloring with a drop of water and paint a thin line around the base of the almond for a “blood” effect.

Notes

Don’t overbake—cookies should be pale and slightly soft when removed from the oven. Keep hands cool to prevent dough from becoming sticky. Vary finger shapes for a more realistic look. The dough can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated, or shaped and frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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