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Spooky Witch’s Finger Cheese Straws

Spooky Witch’s Finger Cheese Straws - featured image
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These buttery, cheesy cheese straws are shaped like creepy witch fingers with almond nails, making them the perfect last-minute Halloween party snack that disappears in minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 cup (115g) sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 2–3 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 large egg (for egg wash)
  • About 24 slivered almonds (for the nails)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (if using).
  3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces.
  4. Toss in the finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese and gently mix until evenly distributed.
  5. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cold water over the mixture and gently bring the dough together with a fork or your hands. Add more water, one teaspoon at a time, if needed, until the dough just holds together when squeezed.
  6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, press into a 1-inch thick disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
  7. After chilling, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
  8. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into strips about 4 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. Gather scraps, press together, and re-roll to cut more strips.
  9. Take each strip and gently roll it between your palms to create a slightly rounded, finger-like shape. Pinch one end slightly to form a knuckle shape. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart.
  10. In a small bowl, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to make an egg wash. Brush a thin layer onto the top of each finger. Press a slivered almond firmly onto the tip of each finger to create the nail. Optionally, use a toothpick to press knuckle lines into the dough.
  11. Bake for 14-16 minutes, until golden brown and firm to the touch. Do not overbake.
  12. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Keep butter and dough cold for best texture. Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother dough. For extra crispness, chill shaped fingers for 10 minutes before baking. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Re-crisp in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween, cheese straws, witch fingers, spooky snacks, easy appetizer, cheddar cheese straws

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/spooky-witchs-finger-cheese-straws-easy-halloween-recipe/