Name: Cutest Hairy Bat Cookie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-488602H23M3S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional); Chocolate sprinkles or finely shredded coconut (for “hair”); Candy eyes; Black food coloring (optional)

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The Cutest Hairy Bat Cookie is a spooky-sweet Halloween treat that’s almost too adorable to eat. These soft chocolate cookies are shaped like bats and coated in a fuzzy layer of chocolate sprinkles or shredded coconut to mimic “hairy” fur. With candy eyes and a hint of rich cocoa flavor, these cookies are perfect for parties, trick-or-treat handouts, or a fun family baking activity.

Cutest Hairy Bat Cookie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these cookies bring together fun, flavor, and creativity in one bite. They’re soft and chewy with a deep chocolate taste, and the “hairy” coating gives them a unique texture. Decorating them is half the fun—I can get the kids involved or go all out with my own designs. These cookies are always a hit at Halloween gatherings and so easy to personalize with different sprinkles or toppings.

Cutest Hairy Bat Cookie

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Egg
Vanilla extract
Milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for extra richness)
Chocolate sprinkles or finely shredded coconut (for the “hair”)
Candy eyes
Black food coloring (optional, for a darker dough)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, I whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another large bowl, I cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
I add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
I gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. If I want a darker look, I add a few drops of black food coloring.
I roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick and use a bat-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies.
I dip the tops of the cookies into a shallow dish of chocolate sprinkles or shredded coconut, gently pressing so it sticks.
I place the cookies on the baking sheet and gently press candy eyes into place.
I bake for 8–10 minutes, then let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 18–20 cookies, depending on cutter size.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add mini chocolate chips to the dough for extra richness. For a different “hair” texture, I use crushed chocolate cereal or tinted shredded coconut. I’ve also made vanilla or peanut butter versions with dark sprinkles for contrast. When I want a no-bake option, I use store-bought chocolate cookies and decorate them the same way.

storage/reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze them in a single layer with parchment paper between, then thaw at room temperature when I’m ready to serve. I avoid reheating them, as it can melt the decorations.

FAQs

What can I use instead of a bat cookie cutter?

If I don’t have a bat cutter, I trace a bat shape on parchment, cut it out, and use it as a stencil with a knife. I’ve also used Halloween-themed cutters like pumpkins or ghosts with the same “hairy” decoration style.

Can I use premade dough?

Yes, I’ve used store-bought chocolate cookie dough when I’m short on time. I just roll it out, cut, and decorate the same way.

How do I make the cookies extra soft?

I slightly underbake them by a minute or so. Also, using brown sugar in the dough helps retain moisture and softness.

What kind of sprinkles work best for the “hair”?

I like using chocolate jimmies or finely shredded coconut. Crushed Oreos or dyed desiccated coconut also work well for texture and visual effect.

Can kids help make these?

Absolutely. I let kids press on the candy eyes and dip the cookies in sprinkles. It’s a fun and easy activity they always enjoy.

Conclusion

The Cutest Hairy Bat Cookie is more than just a sweet Halloween treat—it’s a fun project that brings spooky charm to the table. I love how simple they are to bake and decorate, and how much personality each little bat can have. Whether I’m making them for a party, gifting them in treat bags, or just enjoying the holiday spirit, they always deliver a delightful bite of Halloween magic.

Cutest Hairy Bat Cookie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Variations

storage/reheating

FAQs