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Lighter Witch Finger Pretzel Bites: Easy Halloween Treat

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These lighter witch finger pretzel bites with almond nails are the perfect Halloween treat—creepy yet cute, quick to make, and deliciously soft with a satisfying crunch from the almond nails.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1/2 cup warm water (around 110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 24 whole almonds (raw, pointed tips)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 6 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons baking soda
  • Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing after baking)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and honey. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Add the Greek yogurt, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined. Add the flour one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes until doubled in size.
  4. Preheat and prepare: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil, then carefully stir in the baking soda.
  5. Shape the fingers: Punch down the risen dough and divide into 24 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin log about 4 inches long, tapering one end slightly to look like a fingertip. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Add the nails: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the tip of each dough finger with egg wash. Press one almond onto the brushed tip, pointed end outward.
  7. Create the knuckles: Use a sharp knife to make 2-3 shallow cuts across each finger at the knuckle positions.
  8. Bathe the pretzels: Using a slotted spoon, carefully lower 3-4 pretzel fingers at a time into the boiling baking soda water. Let them bathe for 20-30 seconds, then remove and place back on the baking sheet.
  9. Bake: Sprinkle the bathed pretzels with coarse sea salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes until deep golden brown and slightly puffed.
  10. Finish and serve: Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. If desired, brush with melted butter while still warm. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Don’t over-knead the dough; stop when elastic. The baking soda bath timing is crucial—20 seconds is ideal. Keep almonds pointed outward. Flour hands before shaping to prevent sticking. For best results, serve warm.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween, pretzel bites, witch fingers, almond nails, easy Halloween treat, lighter pretzel

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/lighter-witch-finger-pretzel-bites-easy-halloween-treat/