Introduction:
Get ready for a spooky treat with these Blood Spatter Cookies! Perfect for Halloween parties or a fun twist on your usual cookie routine, these cookies feature a sweet vanilla base with a striking “blood spatter” effect created with red icing. They’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults who enjoy a little thrill with their sweets.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Visually striking: The dramatic blood spatter effect makes these cookies a standout treat.
- Delicious and sweet: A classic vanilla cookie base that’s both tasty and fun.
- Customizable: Adjust the “blood” color and splatter pattern to suit your spooky needs.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these cookies are a breeze to bake.
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Blood Spatter Icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- Red food coloring (gel or liquid)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thinning)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Shape and Bake the Cookies:
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out cookies using your favorite cookie cutters.
- Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Blood Spatter Icing:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and lemon juice (if using) until smooth.
- Add red food coloring until you achieve the desired shade of red.
- Adjust the consistency of the icing by adding a little water if it’s too thick, or more powdered sugar if it’s too runny.
- Apply the Blood Spatter:
- Once the cookies are completely cool, use a small spoon or a piping bag fitted with a small round tip to drizzle or splatter the red icing over the cookies to create a “blood spatter” effect.
- Allow the icing to set for at least 30 minutes before serving or packaging.
Tips for Success:
- Icing Consistency: For better control when creating the spatter effect, the icing should be thick enough to hold its shape but still fluid enough to drizzle easily.
- Food Coloring: Gel food coloring is preferred for vibrant, true-to-color results.
- Design Variations: Experiment with different colors and patterns for a unique twist on the blood spatter effect.
Recipe Variations:
- Different Icing Colors: Use different colors for the “blood” to match various themes or occasions.
- Flavored Icing: Add a few drops of your favorite extract (like almond or lemon) to the icing for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these spooky cookies at Halloween parties, themed gatherings, or as a fun treat for kids.
- Pair with a festive punch or milk for a complete spooky snack.
Freezing and Storage:
- Storage: Store iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze undecorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before icing.
Special Equipment:
- Rolling Pin: For rolling out the cookie dough.
- Cookie Cutters: For shaping the cookies.
- Piping Bags or Spoons: For applying the icing.
FAQ:
- Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
Yes, store-bought cookie dough can be used for convenience. Just be sure to bake and cool before applying the icing. - Can I use a different type of icing?
Royal icing or glaze can be used if you prefer, but make sure to adjust the consistency for the spatter effect. - How can I make the cookies more spooky?
Add edible googly eyes or creepy decorations on top of the icing for an extra Halloween touch.
Preparation Time:
- 20 minutes for preparing and chilling the dough.
Cook Time:
- 8-10 minutes per batch of cookies.
Total Time:
- 1 hour 30 minutes (including prep, bake, and decorating time).
Nutrition Information (per cookie, assuming 24 cookies):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 16g
Blood Spatter Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Blood Spatter Icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- Red food coloring (gel or liquid)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thinning)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Shape and Bake the Cookies:
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out cookies using your favorite cookie cutters.
- Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Blood Spatter Icing:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and lemon juice (if using) until smooth.
- Add red food coloring until you achieve the desired shade of red.
- Adjust the consistency of the icing by adding a little water if it’s too thick, or more powdered sugar if it’s too runny.
- Apply the Blood Spatter:
- Once the cookies are completely cool, use a small spoon or a piping bag fitted with a small round tip to drizzle or splatter the red icing over the cookies to create a “blood spatter” effect.
- Allow the icing to set for at least 30 minutes before serving or packaging.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 1g
Closing Notes:
Have you tried making these Blood Spatter Cookies? Share your spook-tacular creations in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your Halloween treats and stay tuned for more festive recipes.
