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Eerie Cozy Witch Finger Cookies with Almond Nails

witch finger cookies - featured image

Buttery shortbread cookies shaped like witch fingers with almond fingernails, perfect for Halloween. Quick, easy, and delightfully creepy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 ½ cups (312g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • About 40–50 slivered almonds
  • Red jam or food coloring (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract; mix until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Shape the dough into finger-sized logs about 3-4 inches long, tapering one end. Press knuckle creases with the back of a knife.
  8. Press a slivered almond into the tapered end for the fingernail.
  9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are just barely golden.
  10. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Optionally, dab red jam or food coloring around the nail base for a ‘bloody’ effect.

Notes

Chill the dough thoroughly for easier shaping. Keep hands cool to prevent sticking. Almond extract is key for the signature flavor. Cookies taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

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