Ghost Cookies

Halloween is one of my favorite times to get creative in the kitchen, and these Ghost Cookies are proof that spooky can also be sweet and delicious. I first made these ghostly treats for a kids' Halloween party, and they were such a hit that they’ve become an annual tradition. With their cute marshmallow ghosts and drippy white chocolate sheets, they’re a simple way to bring festive fun to any October gathering.

What I love most about these cookies is that they don’t require hours of baking or complex decorating skills. If you can melt chocolate and use a piping bag (or even a zip-top bag), you’re more than ready to whip up a batch. They’re perfect for parties, school events, or just as a fun weekend activity with kids.

Why You’ll Love These Ghost Cookies

These cookies combine the comforting, classic taste of chocolate chip cookies with the festive fun of Halloween. They’re:

• Easy to assemble with store-bought or homemade cookies
• A kid-friendly project with minimal mess
• Customizable with different toppings or expressions
• Perfect for Halloween parties or spooky movie nights
• Guaranteed to get "awws" before they're devoured

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What Kind of Cookies Should I Use?

Chocolate chip cookies are a great base for ghost cookies because their soft, chewy texture balances perfectly with the white chocolate and marshmallow. But honestly, any sturdy cookie will work—sugar cookies, peanut butter, even ginger snaps for a spiced twist. Just avoid overly crumbly ones that might break under the weight of the marshmallow ghosts.

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Options for Substitutions

If you want to switch things up or accommodate dietary needs, try these easy swaps:

• Cookies: Use gluten-free or vegan cookies to suit your preference.
• Chocolate coating: White candy melts or dairy-free white chocolate work just as well.
• Marshmallows: Vegan marshmallows are available at most specialty stores.
• Eyes and mouth: Chocolate chips, black icing, or even mini M&Ms can be used for the face.

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Ingredients for Ghost Cookies

• Chocolate Chip Cookies – These form the base of your ghost cookies. Use homemade for a richer flavor, or grab a store-bought pack to save time.
• Large Marshmallows – These become the ghost bodies. Their pillowy shape is just the right size and structure.
• White Chocolate or Candy Melts – This creates the flowing ghost sheet. Melts smoothly and hardens with a lovely shine.
• Black Decorating Gel or Melted Dark Chocolate – For the eyes and mouth. Adds personality and spookiness.
• Optional: Sprinkles or Mini Candies – Add them around the base for a festive flair.

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Step 1: Prepare the Cookies

Lay out your cookies on a baking sheet or cooling rack. Make sure they are fully cooled if freshly baked. Each cookie will be the foundation for a ghost.

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Step 2: Attach the Marshmallows

Place one marshmallow upright in the center of each cookie. If they don’t stick well, add a dab of melted chocolate underneath as glue.

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Step 3: Melt the White Chocolate

Gently melt the white chocolate or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-30 second intervals, stirring until smooth. Avoid overheating as it may seize.

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Step 4: Drape the Chocolate

Spoon or pour the melted white chocolate over each marshmallow, letting it drip down the sides to create a ghostly drape. Don’t worry about perfection—irregular edges add charm.

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Step 5: Add the Faces

While the white coating is still soft, use black gel or melted dark chocolate to dot on two eyes and a mouth. You can pipe these using a toothpick or small piping bag.

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Step 6: Let Them Set

Allow the cookies to sit at room temperature or refrigerate briefly until the chocolate is set. Once firm, they’re ready to serve or store.

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How Long to Prepare the Ghost Cookies

Prep Time: Since there's no major baking involved (especially if you're using store-bought cookies), the prep time is refreshingly quick. Laying out your cookies, setting marshmallows, and melting chocolate will take about 10–15 minutes.

Decorating Time: Dipping the marshmallows and adding the ghost faces can take an additional 15–20 minutes depending on how many you're making and how detailed you want to get. Allow 10 more minutes for the chocolate to set.

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Tips for Perfect Ghost Cookies

• Use parchment paper under the cookies to catch excess chocolate for easy cleanup.
• Make sure the marshmallows are centered to avoid tipping ghosts.
• Don’t overheat the chocolate—melt slowly to avoid seizing.
• Use a toothpick for finer control when drawing the ghost faces.
• Chill the cookies briefly to set the chocolate faster if needed.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using hot chocolate: If your white chocolate is too hot, it will melt the marshmallow. Let it cool slightly before pouring.
• Uneven marshmallows: Squished or uneven marshmallows will result in lopsided ghosts. Pick uniform ones.
• Overloading the chocolate: Too much white chocolate may pool and run off the cookie.
• Using the wrong gel: Some decorating gels don’t dry well. Test yours ahead of time to ensure it sets.
• Skipping cooling time: Don’t handle the cookies before the chocolate sets or it will smudge.

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What to Serve With Ghost Cookies?

1. Spooky Hot Chocolate

A mug of rich cocoa topped with whipped cream and Halloween sprinkles is a cozy match.

2. Pumpkin Spice Latte

The fall flavors of a PSL pair perfectly with these sweet bites.

3. Apple Cider Punch

A chilled or warm apple cider adds a festive and fruity contrast.

4. Halloween Snack Mix

Serve alongside a mix of pretzels, candy corn, and nuts for a party-friendly snack table.

5. Vanilla Ice Cream

Create a ghost cookie sundae for a decadent dessert option.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store your ghost cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture to prevent melting or softening.

Refrigerator: If your kitchen is warm, store them in the fridge. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Let them come to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Freezer: You can freeze undecorated cookies, but marshmallows and chocolate can change texture when frozen, so it’s best to freeze only the base cookies and decorate after thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per ghost cookie (based on standard ingredients):

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Sugar: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 90mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make these?

You can make them up to 2 days in advance. Just store them properly to keep them fresh.

Can I use homemade cookies?

Absolutely! In fact, homemade cookies give you more control over flavor and size.

What if I don’t have decorating gel?

You can use melted dark chocolate and a toothpick to carefully paint on the ghost faces.

Can I make them gluten-free or vegan?

Yes, just substitute with gluten-free cookies, vegan marshmallows, and dairy-free white chocolate.

How do I transport them without smudging?

Let the chocolate fully set and transport them in a single layer in a rigid container lined with parchment.

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Conclusion

Ghost Cookies are a delightful and easy way to bring spooky charm to your Halloween treats. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for fun food crafts with the kids, or just want something festive and sweet, these cookies are a go-to favorite. With just a few ingredients and a little imagination, you’ll have an adorable batch of edible ghosts ready to haunt the dessert table!

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