Introduction
Halloween desserts don’t have to be complicated to be charming — and these Ghost Cookies prove it. With their smooth white icing, cute black eyes, and spooky little mouths, they’re festive, fun, and irresistibly sweet.
The first time I made these for a Halloween party, they disappeared almost as fast as I put them on the table. They’re easy to bake, fun to decorate, and the perfect treat for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- White royal icing (for decorating)
- Black decorating gel or small candy pieces (for eyes and mouth)
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Chill: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Cut the cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a ghost-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are just starting to turn golden. Let cool completely before decorating.
- Decorate: Spread or pipe white royal icing over each cookie to create the ghost shape. Add black eyes and a mouth using decorating gel or candy pieces. Let icing set before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Flavor Twist: Add a touch of almond extract to the dough for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
- Party-Ready: Package individually in clear treat bags for party favors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Look: Instantly recognizable and perfect for Halloween tables.
- Beginner-Friendly: No advanced decorating skills required.
- Customizable: Change the expressions for a mix of cute and spooky ghosts.
Final Thoughts
These Ghost Cookies are simple, sweet, and full of Halloween spirit. Whether you make them for a classroom treat, a party, or just a cozy night at home, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles (and maybe a few playful “boos!”) to everyone who sees them.
