Witches’ Finger Shortbread Cookies with Almond Nails
Elina James
Halloween is all about creepy, creative, and deliciously fun treats—and nothing captures that spirit better than u003cstrongu003eWitches’ Finger Shortbread Cookies with Almond Nailsu003c/strongu003e.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Desserts, Snack
Cuisine American, Halloween-Inspired
Servings 25 servings
Calories 300 kcal
For the Shortbread Dough:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional, for flavor)
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
For Decoration:
- 30 whole almonds (for nails)
- Red gel icing or strawberry/raspberry jam (for bloody effect, optional)
Make the Dough In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, and almond extract; mix until combined. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt separately; then gradually add to the butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
Shape the Fingers Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into a 3-inch log. Shape into finger-like cylinders. Pinch slightly in two spots to make “knuckles.” Use a knife to make small lines across the knuckles for a realistic look. Press an almond firmly at one end to form the “nail.”
Bake Place shaped fingers on baking sheets and bake 15–18 minutes, until slightly golden at edges. Remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
Decorate For an extra spooky effect, remove the almond after baking, add a small dab of jam or gel, and press the almond back in to create a “bloody” nail bed.