Halloween Cookies

Name: Halloween Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 41 min
Cuisine: American
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&M’s; 3 tbsp (36 g) Halloween jimmies; candy eyeballs for decoration; extra Halloween M&Ms and jimmies for decoration

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: August 20, 2025

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Introduction to Halloween Cookies

As the leaves start to turn and Halloween approaches, I find myself craving those delightful Halloween cookies. They bring a sprinkle of joy and a dash of nostalgia. This recipe is a quick solution for busy days, offering a festive way to celebrate the season. Trust me, these cookies are perfect to impress your loved ones, or even indulge in a moment of delightful self-care. With their chocolatey flavor and vibrant decorations, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into this fun baking adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Halloween Cookies

These Halloween cookies are not just delicious; they’re incredibly easy to make! In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of scrumptious treats that kids and adults alike will adore. The rich chocolatey flavor dances with festive colors, making them a hit at any gathering. Plus, they’re a fun way to involve the kids in the kitchen, creating cherished memories while whipping up these delightful festive bites. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Halloween Cookies

To bring these delightful Halloween cookies to life, you’ll need a mix of simple ingredients that work together to create a truly festive treat. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your cookies, giving them the right structure and texture.
Black cocoa powder: This rich chocolatey powder adds depth and a delightful dark color. If you can’t find it, regular cocoa powder will work, but the color won’t be as striking.
Baking powder and baking soda: A little leavening goes a long way, helping your cookies rise and achieve that perfect chewy texture.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balance of flavors in your cookies.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter is essential for creaming with sugars, creating a light and fluffy base for your cookies. Always opt for unsalted to control the saltiness.
Light brown sugar: This adds a lovely caramel flavor and moisture, keeping your cookies wonderfully chewy.
Granulated white sugar: This gives a bit of sparkle and sweetness. Together with brown sugar, it creates the perfect contrast in texture.
Egg yolks: Just the yolks help create a rich, tender cookie. Make sure they’re at room temperature for easier mixing.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this classic ingredient adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
Halloween M&Ms: Not only do they add sweetness, but their festive colors bring a touch of fun to your cookies.
Halloween jimmies: These colorful sprinkles are perfect for that extra bit of pizzazz that makes every bite exciting!
Candy eyeballs: These whimsical decorations transform your cookies into mini-spooky delights, making them a hit with kids.
Extra Halloween M&Ms and jimmies: These are for decorating the tops of your cookies before baking. They’ll make your treats extra charming when they come out of the oven!

Don’t worry; you can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of this article, ready for printing when you’re set to bake.

How to Make Halloween Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps your cookies bake evenly. Just imagine the delicious aroma wafting through your home in no time!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Next, grab a medium bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, black cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures even distribution. Don’t skip this step—it’s key for the best Halloween cookies!

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Now for the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together for about two minutes until light and fluffy. This airy texture is what gives your cookies that melt-in-your-mouth feel.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to your butter-sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed for another two minutes. Watch as it transforms into a pale and creamy mix. This stage is crucial; it adds richness and enhances the flavor of your delightful Halloween cookies!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring the two worlds together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir on low speed, just until combined. Overmixing here can lead to tough cookies, and we want them soft and chewy!

Step 6: Fold in M&Ms and Sprinkles

Once combined, gently fold in the Halloween M&Ms and jimmies using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to crush the candies—those festive pops of color are what make your Halloween cookies so special and fun!

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Time to scoop! Use a cookie scoop with a two-tablespoon capacity to scoop out dough balls. Place them about two inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Remember, they’ll spread a little while baking, so plan accordingly!

Step 8: Decorate Before Baking

Give your cookies some personality! Add extra M&Ms, candy eyeballs, and sprinkles on top of the dough balls. This is where creativity shines through—let your Halloween spirit guide your designs!

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheets into the oven and bake for 10 to 11 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want them to look just set but slightly soft in the center. That’s the hallmark of a perfectly baked cookie!

Step 10: Cooling Tips

Once done, let your cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps maintain their soft, chewy texture. Just be patient; the tasty treats will be ready to devour soon!

Tips for Success

Always preheat your oven for even baking, so your cookies rise perfectly.
Make sure your butter is softened but not melting; this is crucial for the right texture.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes—this helps them bake evenly.
Don’t overmix once you add the flour; treat your dough gently for softness.
Experiment with additional decorations for extra festive flair!

Equipment Needed for Halloween Cookies

Mixing bowls: Use both medium and large bowls for mixing ingredients. A set of nested bowls is handy!
Electric mixer: A handheld mixer works wonders, but a sturdy whisk can also get the job done.
Cookie scoop: A 2-tablespoon scoop is perfect for shaping cookies. However, a spoon will do in a pinch!
Baking sheets: Standard baking sheets lined with parchment paper ensure easy cleanup.
Wire rack: Use this for cooling your cookies unless you have a large plate—freedom of airflow is key!

Variations of Halloween Cookies

Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to keep everyone included in the fun.
Vegan option: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of regular egg yolks for a plant-based twist.
Add nuts: For a delightful crunch, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans with the M&Ms.
Spooky flavor: Add a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a hint of fall flavor that complements the chocolate.
Chocolate lovers: Use white chocolate M&Ms or chocolate chips in place of Halloween M&Ms for double the chocolate goodness!

Serving Suggestions for Halloween Cookies

Milk: Pair your cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for the perfect classic treat.
Cider: Hot apple cider brings a cozy fall vibe that complements the chocolatey goodness.
Pumpkin spice lattes: These seasonal drinks enhance the festive atmosphere at any gathering.
Presentation: Arrange cookies on a spooky platter with some fake spiders for a fun Halloween touch!

FAQs about Halloween Cookies

Can I make the cookie dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, shape it into balls, and freeze them. Just let them thaw for about 10 minutes before baking. It’s a great time-saver if you’re busy during Halloween week!

What can I substitute for black cocoa powder?

If black cocoa powder is hard to find, regular cocoa powder is a good substitute. Your cookies will still taste delicious, but they won’t have that deep color. They’ll still be festive and delightful!

How can I store leftover Halloween cookies?

Keep your Halloween cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Can I use different types of candies for decorating?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Use any candies you like—chocolate chips, gummy worms, or even crushed candy corn for that extra Halloween flair!

Why did my cookies spread too much during baking?

Sometimes, cookies spread if the butter is too soft or melted. Ensure it’s just softened. If you have that issue, try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking, and they’ll hold their shape better!

Final Thoughts on Halloween Cookies

Baking these Halloween cookies is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that fills your home with warmth and happiness. The joyful colors and chocolatey goodness bring smiles to faces young and old, creating magical moments together. Each bite whisks you away to a world of childhood memories, laughter, and celebration. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to spread joy and create connections. So preheat that oven and let the fun begin—your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you!