Witch Finger Breadsticks are fun and spooky snacks perfect for Halloween! These soft, buttery breadsticks are shaped like creepy fingers and topped with almonds for nails. 🎃
I love serving these with some yummy dip—it’s a hit at parties! Plus, they’re so easy to make, you’ll be a kitchen witch in no time! 🧙♀️✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: I love using refrigerated pizza dough for ease. You can also use breadstick dough! If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own from scratch with flour, yeast, water, and a bit of sugar.
Almonds: Whole almonds serve as perfect fingernails, adding a fun crunch. If someone has a nut allergy, you can use sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. You could also use slivered almonds for a more pointed look.
Herbs & Spices: I use dried Italian seasoning, which adds a nice flavor. You could mix herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil for a twist. Fresh herbs would also work; just remember to use more since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do You Use Pizza Dough to Shape Creepy Fingers?
Shaping the dough into fingers is one of the most fun parts! After rolling it out, cut it into strips and create the illusion of knuckles by pinching and cutting carefully. Here’s a tip:
- Make short cuts for knuckles to create a more authentic look.
- Don’t be afraid to twist the strips; a crooked finger adds character!
Ensure the almond is securely pressed into the dough so it doesn’t fall off during baking. Personal tip: have fun with the shapes and make them as spooky or silly as you like! 😊
Witch Finger Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough or breadstick dough
- 10 whole almonds (for fingernails)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or oregano/basil mix)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Marinara or pizza sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 12-15 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and fun option for Halloween festivities!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s happening, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier later.
2. Prepare the Dough:
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until you have a rectangular shape that’s about 12 x 8 inches. This will give us the right base for our spooky fingers!
3. Cut the Dough:
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips that are about 1 inch wide and 6-8 inches long. These will be your “witch fingers.”
4. Shape the Fingers:
To shape the strips into witch fingers, make three small cuts at one end of each strip. These cuts will create fingertip segments! Pinch the dough slightly at the opposite end to narrow it and form knuckles. Have fun with the shapes; they don’t all need to be perfect!
5. Twist and Add Nails:
Gently twist each strip of dough along its length to give it a slightly crooked finger effect—just like a real witch’s finger! Then, take one almond and press it into the fingertip end of each strip for the fingernail.
6. Final Touches:
Arrange the shaped breadsticks on your baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Brush this seasoned butter generously over each of the breadsticks to add flavor.
7. Bake and Serve:
Now, pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and cooked through. Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly. Serve with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. Enjoy your spooky treat!
These Witch Finger Breadsticks are perfect for Halloween gatherings or whenever you want to add a bit of fun to your snack table. Happy baking! 🧙♀️🎃
Can I Use Other Types of Dough?
Absolutely! While refrigerated pizza dough works great, you can also use breadstick dough or even homemade bread dough if you’re feeling ambitious. Make sure it’s stretchy enough for shaping!
How Do I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispy texture!
What Can I Substitute for Almonds?
If you have nut allergies or just want a different look, feel free to use sunflower seeds for a similar effect, or omit the “fingernail” entirely. You can also use slivered almonds for a more dramatic appearance!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the breadsticks ahead of time! Shape them and place them on the baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake them directly from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.