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Easy Witch Finger Cookies with Almond Nails

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These buttery, almond-flavored shortbread cookies are shaped like creepy witch fingers with almond nails. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for Halloween parties or spooky treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (about 60g) whole almonds, blanched or raw
  • Red food coloring (gel or liquid)
  • 1 tablespoon milk (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and sugar: Beat softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides halfway through.
  2. Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the egg yolk, almond extract, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
  5. Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (up to 3 days).
  6. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  7. Shape the fingers: Pinch off walnut-sized pieces (about 1 tablespoon) and roll into 3-4 inch long logs, thicker at one end and tapered at the other. Place on prepared baking sheets, 2 inches apart.
  8. Add the almond nails: Press one whole almond firmly onto the thicker end of each finger, about 1/4 inch deep.
  9. Create knuckles and details: Use a toothpick to press 2-3 gentle lines for knuckles and a small indent around the base of the almond for the cuticle.
  10. Add wrinkles (optional): Lightly brush the knuckle areas with a tiny bit of milk.
  11. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until just set and edges are light golden brown. Centers should still look slightly pale.
  12. Add the ‘blood’: As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, use a toothpick to dab a tiny amount of red food coloring at the cuticle area.
  13. Cool completely on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chill the dough for at least 20 minutes to prevent spreading. Watch the bake time closely—cookies go from perfect to overdone in about 60 seconds. Hand-roll each finger for an organic, realistic look. These cookies taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/easy-witch-finger-cookies-with-almond-nails/