Q1: What is the absolute best way to shape the dough to make it look like a realistic finger?

The secret is to not make them too perfect! Gently roll the dough into a thin log, and then use your fingers to slightly bulge out two sections to create the "knuckles." Then, you can use the back of a small knife to gently press a few shallow, horizontal lines into the knuckle areas to create a wrinkly, gnarled look.

Q2: Can I make these Witch Finger Breadsticks ahead of time for a party?

Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead appetizer! You can fully assemble the unbaked breadsticks on a baking sheet, cover them tightly, and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours . When your party starts, you can simply brush them with the egg wash and bake them so they are served hot and fresh.

Q3: What can I use instead of a tube of refrigerated breadstick dough?

If you can't find refrigerated breadstick dough, you can also use a tube of refrigerated pizza dough . Simply unroll the dough and use a pizza cutter to cut it into long, thin strips, and then proceed with the recipe as directed.

Q4: How do I make sure the almond "fingernail" stays on while the breadsticks bake?

The key is to press the almond firmly into the tip of the soft, raw dough before you bake it. The dough will puff up around the almond as it bakes, which will help to hold it securely in place.

Q5: Are these breadsticks very spicy?

No, not at all! As written, these breadsticks are completely savory and cheesy , not spicy. The only "heat" would come from your choice of a spicy marinara dipping sauce.

Witch Finger Breadsticks (Perfect for Halloween!)

An easy and festive recipe for ‘Witch Finger Breadsticks,’ a perfect spooky appetizer for Halloween. This simple dish uses refrigerated breadstick dough as a convenient shortcut. The dough is cut and shaped into finger-like forms, with a whole almond pressed into one end to resemble a gruesome fingernail. The ‘fingers’ are then brushed with an egg wash, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese, and baked until golden brown. They are served with warm marinara sauce for a ‘bloody’ dipping effect.

Author: Grace

Ingredients

1 package refrigerated breadstick dough
24 whole almonds
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Unroll the breadstick dough. If the dough is scored into large breadsticks, separate them, then cut each piece in half to create 24 smaller pieces.
Roll and shape each piece of dough into a ‘finger’ shape, making one end slightly tapered.
Firmly press a whole almond into the tapered end of each dough piece to create a ‘fingernail.’ You can also use a knife to make a few light scores below the nail to look like knuckles.
Arrange the ‘fingers’ on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the breadsticks with the beaten egg and sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the breadsticks are golden brown.
Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

This is a fun, creative appetizer that is very easy to make using store-bought refrigerated breadstick dough.
The visual effect is key; pressing the almond ‘fingernail’ in firmly will help it stay in place during baking.
Serving with a red marinara sauce enhances the spooky, Halloween theme.

Find it online: https://www.eatswithsoul.com/witch-finger-breadsticks/