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Cozy Witch Finger Shortbread Cookies with Almond Fingernails

witch finger shortbread cookies - featured image
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These spooky but sweet shortbread cookies look like creepy witch fingers with almond fingernails. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and perfect for Halloween parties or cozy fall baking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup (about 60-70) whole almonds, blanched or raw
  • Red jam or food coloring (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
  2. Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.
  3. Mix in the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
  4. Chill the dough: Turn the dough out onto plastic wrap, pat into a disc, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 3 days).
  5. Preheat the oven: About 15 minutes before baking, preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Shape the fingers: Pinch off walnut-sized pieces of dough and roll into 3-4 inch long uneven logs, slightly thicker at one end. Place on prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
  7. Create the knuckles: Use the back of a butter knife to gently press 2-3 lines into each finger to create knuckles. Gently squeeze between thumb and forefinger to widen knuckles.
  8. Add the fingernails: Press a whole almond firmly into the tip of each finger, pointed end outward.
  9. Optional: Add ‘blood’: Use a small brush to dab a tiny bit of red jam or food coloring at the base of each almond for a bloody cuticle effect.
  10. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, until just set and edges are barely golden. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading. Keep hands cool if dough gets sticky. Vary finger shapes for realism. Watch bake time to avoid overbrowning. If almonds fall off, press back on while cookies are warm.

Nutrition

Keywords: witch finger cookies, Halloween cookies, shortbread cookies, almond fingernails, spooky cookies, easy Halloween treat

Find it online: https://goldensimmer.com/cozy-witch-finger-shortbread-cookies-with-almond-fingernails/