Halloween Cookies

These Halloween cookies are more than just treats; they are a delicious way to celebrate the spooky season! With their extra chocolatey black velvet texture, colorful Halloween M&Ms, and playful candy eyeballs, these cookies are perfect for any Halloween gathering or festive occasion. Their vibrant appearance and rich flavor make them a standout choice for parties, trick-or-treaters, or simply indulging in a sweet moment at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With a straightforward process, you can whip up these Halloween cookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of black cocoa powder and butter creates an irresistible chocolatey taste.
• Fun Decorations: Add festive touches like M&Ms and candy eyeballs for an eye-catching presentation.
• Perfect for Parties: These cookies are great for sharing at Halloween gatherings or as treats for guests.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the decorations to match your theme or personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delightful Halloween cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer or stand mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures even portions for uniform baking.
• Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy base for spreading cookies evenly.

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Ingredients

These are the best Halloween cookies! They’re extra chocolatey black velvet cookies, with Halloween M&Ms, sprinkles, and candy eyeballs! They’re a spooky treat perfect for spooky season and any Halloween party!

Ingredients:
– 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 the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

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

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, combine:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Light brown sugar
3. Granulated white sugar

Use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream until light and fluffy (about two minutes).

Step 4: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Add:
1. The egg yolks
2. The vanilla extract

Continue mixing on medium speed until the mixture is pale in color and fluffy.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients mixture into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until combined.

Step 6: Fold in M&Ms and Sprinkles

Gently fold in:
1. The Halloween M&Ms
2. The Halloween sprinkles

Use a rubber spatula to ensure even distribution throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Scoop the dough into balls using a cookie scoop (about two tablespoons each). Place them two inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Add Decoration Before Baking

Before baking, place extra M&Ms, candy eyeballs, and jimmies on top of each dough ball for added fun.

Step 9: Bake Your Cookies

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

Step 10: 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 eyeballs have melted during baking, replace them after cooling for that perfect spooky look!

How to Serve Halloween Cookies

These Halloween cookies make a delightful addition to any spooky gathering or festive celebration. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange the Halloween cookies on a decorative platter, mixing in some themed decorations like mini pumpkins or festive napkins for a fun presentation.

Milk Pairing

• Serve warm cookies with a glass of cold milk. The combination of chocolatey flavors and creamy milk is irresistible and perfect for all ages.

Treat Bags

• Package individual cookies in clear treat bags tied with orange or black ribbon. These make charming party favors for guests to take home.

Dessert Table Feature

• Include Halloween cookies as part of a larger dessert table, alongside other treats like cupcakes and candies, creating an enticing spread for your guests.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches. Choose flavors like vanilla or pumpkin spice to complement the chocolatey goodness of the cookies.

How to Perfect Halloween Cookies

Achieving the perfect Halloween cookies involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for optimal results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth and even batter.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour when measuring it to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can change the texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the Dough: If time permits, chilling your dough for 30 minutes can enhance flavors and prevent spreading while baking.
• Rotate Baking Sheets: Halfway through baking, rotate your sheets in the oven for even baking, ensuring all cookies are cooked perfectly.
• Cool Properly: Let baked cookies cool on a wire rack after five minutes on the baking sheet. This prevents sogginess and maintains texture.

Best Side Dishes for Halloween Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Halloween cookies can enhance their flavor and make your spread more exciting. Here’s a list of delicious options.

1. Pumpkin Soup: A warm, spiced pumpkin soup complements sweet treats beautifully, balancing flavors during fall gatherings.
2. Cheese Platter: Offer an assortment of cheeses with crackers; sharp cheeses contrast nicely with sweet cookies.
3. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing touch that lightens up your dessert table and provides natural sweetness.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip cookie halves into melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
5. Spooky Veggie Platter: Create a veggie platter with cut vegetables arranged in fun Halloween shapes served with ranch dip; it’s crunchy and healthy!
6. Hot Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider spiced with cinnamon as a cozy beverage pairing that complements the rich flavors of the cookies.
7. Caramel Dip: A bowl of caramel dip alongside sliced apples encourages guests to enjoy both sweet and crunchy textures.
8. Ghostly Marshmallow Pops: Prepare marshmallows dipped in white chocolate on sticks, decorated as ghosts — they add fun without overshadowing the main attraction!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome of your Halloween Cookies. Avoiding these will ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth and fluffy dough.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to prevent tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents too much flour, which can make cookies dry.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them. This helps them set properly and maintain shape.
• Using old baking powder or soda: Ensure your leavening agents are fresh for the best rise. Check expiration dates for optimal results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Halloween Cookies

• Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Reheating Halloween Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Warm for about 10-15 seconds per cookie on a microwave-safe plate.
• Stovetop: Cover with a lid in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, ensuring they don’t burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Halloween Cookies special?

Halloween Cookies are extra chocolatey and decorated with festive candies, making them perfect for celebrating the spooky season.

Can I customize my Halloween Cookies?

Absolutely! You can swap out M&Ms for other candies or add nuts or dried fruits according to your preference.

How do I store leftover Halloween Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I freeze Halloween Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Just ensure they’re stored properly in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Final Thoughts

These Halloween Cookies are not only delicious but also fun to make and decorate! Their chocolatey flavor combined with colorful decorations makes them a hit at any gathering. Feel free to customize them with your favorite treats and enjoy this delightful recipe throughout the spooky season!