witch finger cookies recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best witch finger cookies recipe

I’m so excited to share my favorite witch finger cookies recipe with you all! I’ve been making these delicious treats for years, and they’re always a hit with my family and friends.

The story behind these cookies is that they originated in the Southern United States, where they were a staple at church gatherings and potlucks. The name ‘witch finger’ comes from the cookie’s unique shape, which resembles a finger.

When you take a bite, the crunchy exterior gives way to a soft, chewy center that’s just irresistible. I love making these cookies for special occasions because they’re so easy to customize with different flavors and decorations.

My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, measuring out ingredients and mixing the dough. It’s a great way to spend quality time together while creating something delicious for our family to enjoy.

Plus, these cookies freeze beautifully, so I can make a big batch and store them for later use. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party or just need a sweet treat for your daily routine, witch finger cookies are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

And the best part? They’re surprisingly healthy considering how tasty they are – packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruit.

Witch Finger Cookies

4.6 from 1415 votes

Witch Finger Cookies are delightful almond-flavored cookies shaped like fingers with a single almond as a nail. Perfect for Halloween treats.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 24Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 160 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp almond extract
1 large egg
1 tsp lemon juice

For Decoration

24 whole almonds
1/2 cup apricot jam
1/2 cup powdered sugar

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350°F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
4In another bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
5Add the almond extract, egg, and lemon juice.
6Mix well until combined.
7Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together.
8The dough should be slightly sticky.
9If it is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
10If it is too dry, add a bit more butter, melted.
11Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces.
12Roll each piece into a log shape about 4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick, tapering at one end to resemble a finger.
13Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet.
14Make three or four indentations on each cookie to resemble knuckles.
15Place an almond at the tapered end to resemble a fingernail.
16Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden.
17Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
18Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
19In a small bowl, mix the apricot jam with a bit of water to make it easier to spread.
20Brush the jam onto the cooled cookies to give them a glossy, bloody appearance.
21Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Small bowl
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 160 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 80mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0.5g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spookier look, add a few drops of red food coloring to the apricot jam mixture.

These witch finger cookies are perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a holiday party, family gathering, or just a daily treat.

They’re easy to make in bulk and can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

I love serving these delicious treats alongside hot cocoa or coffee on chilly mornings or as an after-school snack for my kids.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Witch Finger Cookies

What is the origin of witch finger cookies?

Witch finger cookies have their roots in traditional Southern American cuisine, specifically in the states of Georgia and Florida. The exact origin is unclear, but it’s believed that they were created as a convenient snack for church gatherings and potlucks.

How do I store witch finger cookies?

To keep your witch finger cookies fresh for as long as possible, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. When freezing, make sure to wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Can I customize the recipe with different flavors?

Absolutely! Witch finger cookies are incredibly versatile and can be made with various flavor combinations. Try adding different types of nuts (walnuts or pecans work well), dried fruits (cranberries or cherries), or even chocolate chips for an added twist.

Are witch finger cookies suitable for special diets?

While witch finger cookies do contain some sugar and refined flour, they can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. Consider substituting refined flour with whole wheat or gluten-free flours and using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar.

How do I reheat witch finger cookies?

To reheat your witch finger cookies, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until crispy again.

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