Blood Splatter Sugar Cookies Recipe – Spooky Halloween Treat
Introduction
Want to creep out your Halloween party guests in the best way possible? These Blood Splatter Sugar Cookies are spooky, sweet, and scream-worthy. Made with classic sugar cookie dough and finished with edible “blood” splatter, they’re terrifyingly tasty and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re throwing a haunted house party or prepping spooky goodie bags, these cookies will steal the show.
⏲ Prep & Chill Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour (for dough)
- Decorating Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: ~24 cookies
🍪 Ingredients
For the Sugar Cookies:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Blood Splatter Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk or water
- Red food coloring (gel preferred for vivid color)
- ½ tsp light corn syrup (optional for shine)
🧑🍳 Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
3. Roll and Cut
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into round or desired Halloween-themed shapes and place on a lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the Cookies
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are just beginning to turn golden. Cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.
5. Prepare the Blood Splatter Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar with 1 tbsp of milk or water. Add more as needed to reach a smooth, slightly thick consistency. Add red food coloring until you achieve a realistic blood-red hue. Mix in corn syrup for shine (optional).
6. Create the Splatter Effect
Lay parchment under your cookies to protect your workspace. Dip a clean food-safe paintbrush or toothbrush into the red glaze and flick it across the cookies for a splattered look. You can also dip a spoon and shake or fling it for controlled drips. Let glaze dry completely before serving or storing.
🧙 Suggested Add-ons or Variations
- Add peppermint extract for a red-and-white “candy cane crime scene” twist
- Use black or dark purple glaze to add creepy contrast
- Shape cookies into skulls, coffins, or bones for extra horror appeal
💡 Health Tips
To make a lighter version, use Greek yogurt butter and cut sugar slightly. You can also use natural food dyes made from beet or pomegranate juice for coloring.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough in advance?
A: Yes! You can store the dough in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
Q: How do I store these cookies?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Avoid stacking immediately after decorating.
Q: Can I use royal icing instead?
A: Absolutely! Royal icing works well and dries faster for stacking and packaging.
📊 Nutritional Info (Per Cookie Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Sugars | 9 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
🏷️ Diet Tags or Labels
Vegetarian • Halloween • Dessert • Kid-Friendly
🩸 Final Thoughts
These Blood Splatter Sugar Cookies are equal parts creepy and crowd-pleasing. The shock-factor look is perfect for Halloween parties, horror movie nights, or just delighting trick-or-treaters. They’re easy to make and a guaranteed conversation starter!