Halloween Cookies

These Halloween cookies are a delightful treat for any spooky occasion! With their extra chocolatey black velvet flavor and vibrant decorations like Halloween M&Ms, sprinkles, and candy eyeballs, they are sure to impress at any Halloween party. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just to enjoy at home, these cookies bring festive fun and deliciousness to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of black cocoa powder gives these cookies a unique, decadent taste.
• Fun Decorations: The colorful Halloween-themed toppings make these cookies visually appealing and festive.
• Great for Sharing: With 17 cookies in one batch, they’re ideal for parties or sharing with friends and family.
• Kid-Friendly: Baking these cookies can be a fun activity to do with kids during the Halloween season.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Halloween cookies, gather the necessary tools to make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric Mixer: This tool ensures that your butter and sugars get whipped together quickly, achieving that light and fluffy texture needed for cookie dough.
• Cookie Scoop: A scoop helps you portion out uniform cookie sizes, ensuring even baking for all your treats.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

These are the ingredients you’ll need to create these fantastic Halloween cookies:

• 1 1/4 cups (156 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 5 tbsp (35 g) black cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup (170 g) Halloween M&Ms
• 3 tbsp (36 g) Halloween jimmies
• candy eyeballs for decoration
• extra Halloween M&Ms and jimmies for decoration

How to Make Halloween Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Black cocoa powder
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Salt

Ensure everything is well combined before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, add:
1. Softened unsalted butter
2. Light brown sugar
3. Granulated sugar

Using an electric mixer, cream them together for about two minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Mix in:
1. Egg yolks
2. Vanilla extract

Continue beating on medium speed for another two minutes until the mixture becomes pale in color and fluffy.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined.

Step 6: Fold in M&Ms and Sprinkles

Add:
1. Halloween M&Ms
2. Halloween jimmies

Gently fold them into the cookie dough using a rubber spatula until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Using a cookie scoop (about two tablespoons), portion out dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, placing them two inches apart. Decorate each ball with extra M&Ms, candy eyeballs, and sprinkles as desired.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-11 minutes until set but still soft in the center.

Step 9: Cool Down

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If any candy eyeballs have melted during baking, you can replace them after removing from the oven.

Enjoy your festive Halloween cookies!

How to Serve Halloween Cookies

These Halloween cookies are not just delicious; they’re also visually stunning! Here are some fun serving suggestions to make your spooky treats even more enticing.

For a Festive Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a large, colorful platter for a vibrant Halloween display.
• Add some decorative elements like mini pumpkins or spooky themed napkins for an extra festive touch.

Cookie Bags as Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with orange or black ribbon.
• These make great take-home favors for guests at your Halloween party!

With Milk or Hot Cocoa

• Serve these cookies alongside tall glasses of cold milk or steaming cups of hot cocoa.
• The rich chocolatey flavor pairs perfectly with both beverages.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches.
• Choose a fun flavor like pumpkin spice or vanilla to complement the cookies.

On a Dessert Table

• Include the cookies on a larger dessert table featuring other Halloween-themed treats.
• Mix them with cupcakes, brownies, and candy for an eye-catching display.

How to Perfect Halloween Cookies

Perfecting your Halloween cookies can elevate them from good to great! Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow the butter and eggs to come to room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level flour rather than scooping directly from the bag. This avoids dense cookies.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.

• Chill the Dough: If time permits, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading during baking.

• Rotate Baking Sheets: Halfway through baking, rotate the sheets to ensure even baking and browning on all sides.

Best Side Dishes for Halloween Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Halloween cookies can enhance the overall experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Pumpkin Soup: A warm, creamy pumpkin soup serves as a perfect contrast to sweet treats.
2. Spooky Charcuterie Board: Include cheeses, crackers, and fruits arranged in creepy shapes for a fun touch.
3. Witch’s Brew Punch: A fizzy punch made with fruit juices that matches the Halloween theme is refreshing.
4. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: Crisp apples paired with caramel provide a nice balance of flavors alongside sweet cookies.
5. Cheesy Ghost Toasts: Toasts topped with melted cheese shaped like ghosts add savory bites amidst sweets.
6. Veggie Skeleton Platter: Create a skeleton shape using various veggies served with hummus or ranch dip for healthy snacking options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Halloween cookies, it’s easy to overlook some details that can make a big difference. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not measuring ingredients correctly – Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Always use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precise results.
• Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Skipping the cooling time – Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet helps them set properly. Don’t rush this step!
• Using stale ingredients – Freshness matters! Check your baking powder and cocoa powder before starting for the best flavor.
• Ignoring oven temperature – Ovens can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Halloween Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid.
• They will last for up to 3 months frozen.

Reheating Halloween Cookies

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for 5-7 minutes for the best texture.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. Watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, usually about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Halloween cookies:

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! You can substitute dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips instead of M&Ms if you prefer.

How do I make these Halloween cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Halloween cookies, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even more sprinkles as desired.

How should I decorate my Halloween cookies?

You can use icing, additional sprinkles, or themed decorations like candy eyes for a spooky look.

What is the best way to store leftover dough?

Wrap unused cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Halloween cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any spooky celebration. Customize them with your favorite mix-ins or decorations to make them uniquely yours. Enjoy baking these treats during the festive season!