Ghost Cookies
Ghost Cookies are fun, spooky treats perfect for Halloween or themed parties. Soft sugar cookies shaped like ghosts, decorated with creamy frosting and black candies for eyes, combine sweet and slightly crunchy textures. They’re ideal for kids and festive gatherings, adding a playful, delicious touch to any celebration.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugars, margarine or butter, shortening and egg in a large bowl.
- Stir in flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt.
- Cover and refrigerate about 3 hours or until chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half margarine and half butter, or even all butter for richer flavor. If you prefer a different sweetness, you can substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar. To add a festive touch, incorporate orange or lemon zest into the dough. Chill the dough longer if you have time; it helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to handle.
Serving Suggestions
These ghost cookies are perfect for Halloween gatherings or as a fun treat for kids. Serve them alongside a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a cozy pairing. For an added festive touch, you can decorate them with a simple black icing to create a spooky effect. They also pair wonderfully with American recipes like Sweet Onion Corn Bread for a unique cookie platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven at 300°F until just soft. This helps retain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ghost Cookies contains roughly 482 calories, with 3g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2290mg per serving (100% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to develop further. Once baked, they can also be stored and enjoyed later, making them a great option for holiday parties.
What can I use if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can replace it with an equal amount of butter or margarine. This will change the texture slightly, making the cookies a bit more tender and flavorful, which many people prefer. Just remember to adjust the chilling time if the dough becomes too soft.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these cookies more festive, try adding colorful sprinkles or festive-themed candy decorations on top of the creamy frosting. You can also use cookie cutters to create different shapes, enhancing their appeal for parties or celebrations. Pair them with themed treats like Happy Apples for a fun dessert table.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).