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Quick Spider Web Cookies with Easy Ganache

Spider Web Cookies - featured image

These Quick Spider Web Cookies with Easy Chocolate Ganache are the perfect last-minute Halloween treat that looks way more impressive than the effort they require. A simple sugar cookie topped with glossy ganache and a toothpick-drawn spider web design.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for extra shine)
  • Optional: White chocolate chips for the spider webs

Instructions

  1. Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix—stop as soon as you don’t see any dry streaks of flour. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
  3. Chill the Dough: Flatten the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is non-negotiable for clean cuts.
  4. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  5. Cut and Bake: On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your round cutter to cut out cookies. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden. The centers should look set but not browned. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. Make the Ganache: While the cookies are cooling, place the chocolate chips in a small heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer—do not let it boil. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and glossy. If you want extra shine, stir in the optional tablespoon of butter.
  7. Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spoon a small amount of ganache onto the center of each cookie. Use the back of the spoon or an offset spatula to gently spread it almost to the edges, leaving a small border of cookie visible.
  8. Create the Web: While the ganache is still wet, melt a small amount of white chocolate chips in the microwave (30-second bursts, stirring in between). Transfer to your piping bag or zip-top bag. Pipe a small circle in the center of the ganache, then pipe 3-4 concentric circles around it. Working quickly, use a toothpick to drag from the center outward through all the circles. Repeat this around the cookie to create the web effect. Wipe the toothpick clean between each drag for the cleanest lines…
  9. Set the Ganache: Let the cookies sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes, or until the ganache is firm to the touch. If you are in a rush, pop them in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.

Notes

Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading. For the ganache, use high-quality chocolate for best results. Work quickly when creating the web design while the ganache is still wet. Clean the toothpick between each drag for clean lines. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween cookies, spider web cookies, chocolate ganache cookies, easy Halloween treats, sugar cookies, quick dessert, spooky cookies