Looking to add a creepy bite to your Halloween spread? These witch finger cheese straws bring just the right level of eerie, with a kick of cayenne to balance out the sweetness of all those desserts. Perfectly savory and a little sinister, they can be made a day or two ahead and stored in an airtight container until party time. Serve these up and watch your guests do a double take!
Ingredients
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- ¼ cup butter softened
- ½ cup + 2 tbsp flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
- 24 slivered almonds for the “fingernails”
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C).
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy, then add the shredded cheese and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the flour mixture to the cheese mixture, stirring until a dough forms. (You may need to use your hands to mix it thoroughly.)
- For large witch fingers, roll out a scant tablespoon of dough into a finger shape; for smaller fingers, use about a teaspoon.
- Place each “finger” on an ungreased baking sheet, and press a slivered almond slice onto the tip for a “fingernail.”
- For a realistic effect, use a toothpick to add wrinkle lines along each finger.
- Bake for 15 minutes for large fingers or 12-14 minutes for smaller ones.
- Let cool before serving or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Notes
Recipe from Julie Butler at Inspiration Apron. Check her out!
