Halloween Cookies

These Halloween cookies are the perfect spooky treat for your Halloween celebrations! With extra chocolatey black velvet flavor and festive decorations like Halloween M&Ms and candy eyeballs, these cookies will delight both kids and adults alike. They’re not just tasty; they’re also visually stunning, making them ideal for parties or as a fun family baking project during the spooky season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Chocolatey: The black cocoa powder gives these cookies a rich chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the M&Ms.
• Festive Appearance: The colorful sprinkles and candy eyeballs add a fun and spooky touch that’s perfect for Halloween gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed at parties, as classroom treats, or simply as a fun family activity during October.
• Great for Sharing: With 17 cookies in one batch, they’re perfect for sharing with friends, family, or neighbors.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Halloween cookies, gather the essential tools you’ll need to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric mixer: These tools help achieve a light and fluffy cookie dough by efficiently creaming butter and sugars.
• Mixing bowls: Having different sized bowls allows you to separate dry and wet ingredients easily while keeping your workspace organized.

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 your 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:
* all-purpose flour
* black cocoa powder
* baking powder
* baking soda
* salt

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, combine:
* Softened unsalted butter
* Light brown sugar
* Granulated white sugar
Use an electric mixer to cream these together for about two minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in:
* Egg yolks
* Vanilla extract
Mix on medium speed for another two minutes until pale in color.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed just until combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Fold in M&Ms and Sprinkles

Gently fold in:
* Halloween M&Ms
* Halloween jimmies
Use a rubber spatula to incorporate them into the cookie dough without breaking them apart.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough into balls. Place them about two inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Decorate each ball with extra M&Ms, candy eyeballs, and sprinkles.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 10-11 minutes.

Step 9: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If any candy eyeballs melt during baking, swap them out with fresh ones after cooling. For perfectly shaped cookies, use a large circular cookie cutter around each one immediately after they come out of the oven.

How to Serve Halloween Cookies

These Halloween cookies are not just delicious; they’re also fun to present! Here are some creative ways to serve them at your Halloween festivities.

Spooky Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a large black or orange platter for a festive display.
• Add some decorative elements like fake spider webs or mini pumpkins around the platter for an extra spooky touch.

Cookie Bags for Treats

• Package individual cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with orange ribbon.
• This makes for great party favors that guests can take home.

Halloween-Themed Milk and Cookies

• Serve the cookies alongside a glass of chilled milk with spooky straws.
• Consider using food coloring to create “green” milk for a fun twist!

Cookie Decorating Station

• Set up a table with extra Halloween M&Ms, sprinkles, and icing.
• Let guests decorate their own cookies before enjoying them!

How to Perfect Halloween Cookies

Perfecting your Halloween cookies can make all the difference. Here are some tips to ensure they come out just right.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender and soft.
• Chill the dough: If time permits, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavor and prevent spreading.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Bake just until the edges set and the centers look slightly underbaked; they will continue cooking as they cool.
• Add extra decorations after baking: Place candy eyeballs and sprinkles on top right after you take them out of the oven for visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Halloween Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Halloween cookies can elevate your dessert table. Here are some ideas that complement these spooky treats.

1. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm, creamy pumpkin soup provides a comforting contrast to sweet cookies.

2. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip
   Fresh apple slices paired with homemade caramel dip offer a crunchy, sweet option.

3. Cheese Platter
   Include an assortment of cheeses; sharp cheddar pairs well with sweet flavors.

4. Veggie Tray with Hummus
   Crunchy veggies dipped in hummus balance out the sweetness of the cookies.

5. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
   The salty crunch of pretzels coated in chocolate complements the richness of chocolate cookies.

6. Spooky Fruit Salad
   Create a fruit salad using oranges, grapes, and berries shaped like ghosts or monsters.

7. Mini Pumpkin Pies
   These bite-sized treats keep with the seasonal theme and are always a hit.

8. Ghostly Marshmallow Pops
   Marshmallows dipped in white chocolate and decorated as ghosts bring a fun, thematic flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Halloween cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use the correct measuring tools and techniques to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a softer texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a better texture in your cookies.
• Skipping chilling time: If the recipe calls for chilling the dough, don’t skip this step! Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary. An incorrect temperature can ruin your cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Halloween Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Halloween Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds, checking so they don’t become too hot.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, placing a cookie inside for about 1 minute, covered with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Halloween Cookies:

What makes these Halloween Cookies special?

These Halloween cookies are extra chocolatey black velvet treats filled with festive M&Ms and spooky decorations, perfect for any Halloween celebration.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! You can substitute regular cocoa powder or even add white chocolate chips for a unique twist on these Halloween cookies.

How can I customize my Halloween Cookies?

Feel free to add different types of candies or sprinkles based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand.

How do I prevent my cookies from sticking?

Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper and ensure your cookie dough balls are spaced apart properly before baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking fresh Halloween cookies.

Final Thoughts

These Halloween Cookies are not just delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for autumn festivities. Their versatility allows you to customize decorations according to your taste. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a spooky treat at home, these cookies will surely delight everyone who tries them!