Go Back
Close-up of Witch Finger Cookies with almonds and strawberry jam “blood,” arranged on a dark Halloween plate in warm lighting.

Witch Finger Cookies (Halloween Almond Nail Cookies)

Creepy, buttery, and perfectly crisp — these Witch Finger Cookies are a Halloween favorite across American households. Shaped like fingers with almond “nails” and strawberry jam “blood,” they’re scary-good and always a hit at festive parties!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • - Electric mixer
  • - Baking sheet
  • - Parchment paper
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • - 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • - ¾ cup sugar
  • - 1 large egg
  • - 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • - 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • - ½ tsp salt
  • - 1 tsp baking powder
  • - Whole blanched almonds for nails
  • - Strawberry jam for blood effect

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla and mix well.
  • Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until a soft dough forms.
  • Roll small pieces of dough into finger shapes. Press a whole blanched almond into one end for the “nail.”
  • Place shaped cookies on baking sheet and bake 15–20 minutes until slightly golden.
  • Carefully remove almonds, add a dab of strawberry jam for “blood,” and press almonds back in to finish the look.
  • Cool completely before serving.

Notes

Perfect for Halloween parties or spooky dessert tables. For extra drama, serve on black plates or with a sprinkling of flour “dust” on the tray.
Nutrition (per cookie): Calories: 145 | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 16g | Protein: 3g