20 Spooky Halloween Potluck Recipes for a Ghoulish Feast

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

As the witching hour approaches, it’s time to conjure up some spooky sweet and savory treats for your Halloween party. Whether you’re hosting a ghoul-filled gathering or attending a monster mash, these 20 spook-tacular potluck recipes are sure to cast a spell on your guests.

From “Witch’s Finger Cookies with Almond Nails” that will make everyone howl with laughter, to “Pumpkin-Shaped Cheese Ball with Crackers” that’s as delicious as it is adorable, these dishes are the perfect blend of creepy and crawly. And don’t forget the “Bloody Deviled Eggs with Paprika Drizzle” that will have everyone screaming for more!

Read on to discover the rest of our spook-tacular recipes that will make your Halloween party a real scream…

Witch’s Finger Cookies with Almond Nails

Cast a spell of delight with these eerie yet delicious cookies, perfect for a Halloween party or any occasion that calls for a touch of magic. These Witch’s Fingers are sure to bewitch your taste buds!

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp almond extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Almonds, sliced into “nails” (about 12-15 pieces)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and almond extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Shape dough into finger-shaped cookies, about 6-7 inches long. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and pressing an almond “nail” onto each cookie.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Pumpkin-Shaped Cheese Ball with Crackers

Get ready for a seasonal snack that’s both fun and flavorful! This pumpkin-shaped cheese ball is perfect for fall gatherings or as a quick appetizer for your next party.

Ingredients:

– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crackers for serving

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, pecans, pumpkin puree, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Use your hands or a spatula to shape the mixture into a pumpkin shape (about 6-7 inches long).
4. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Just before serving, place the cheese ball on a platter with crackers.
6. Serve and enjoy!

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to go straight from the fridge.

Bloody Deviled Eggs with Paprika Drizzle

Add a bold touch to your party platter with these show-stopping deviled eggs infused with the flavors of spicy bloody mary mix.

Ingredients:

– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 teaspoon Bloody Mary mix (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Paprika drizzle (see below)

Paprika Drizzle:

– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, combine the yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish, and Bloody Mary mix. Mix until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
5. Drizzle the paprika mixture over the deviled eggs (see below).
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Paprika Drizzle Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the paprika, olive oil, and lime juice until well combined.
2. Season with salt to taste.
3. Drizzle over the deviled eggs just before serving.

Cooking Time: None, as these are cold appetizers.

Mummy Hot Dogs in Puff Pastry

Mummy Hot Dogs in Puff Pastry: A Fun Twist on Classic Grilled Hot Dogs

Transform plain hot dogs into an adorable and tasty treat with this simple recipe. Perfect for kids’ parties or as a fun twist for your next backyard BBQ.

Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 4-6 hot dogs
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut strips of pastry about 1 inch wide and 6-7 inches long.
4. Wrap each hot dog with 2-3 strips of pastry, leaving a small opening at one end.
5. If using cheese, place a sprinkle on top of the hot dog before closing the pastry seam.
6. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Place mummy hot dogs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Monster Eye Caprese Skewers

Get ready to devour these bite-sized beauties! Perfect as an appetizer or snack, Monster Eye Caprese Skewers are a creative twist on the classic caprese salad.

Ingredients:

– 12 cherry tomatoes
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, sliced into small pieces
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Thread a cherry tomato, a piece of mozzarella cheese, and a basil leaf onto each skewer.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None! These skewers are best served fresh and at room temperature.

Graveyard Taco Dip with Tombstone Crackers

Get ready to dig into this creepy-crawly delicious dip, perfect for your next Halloween party! This Graveyard Taco Dip with Tombstone Crackers is a graveyard smash of flavors, combining spicy and savory elements with a spooky twist.

Ingredients:

– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of sour cream
– 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes with green chilies
– Tombstone Crackers, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
3. Add taco seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper; stir well.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and diced tomatoes with green chilies.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with Tombstone Crackers and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spiderweb Guacamole with Tortilla Chips

Get ready to spin a tasty web of flavors with this unique guacamole recipe, perfect for snack time or as a dip for your favorite gatherings. This creative take on classic guacamole features a spiderweb-inspired design and adds an extra layer of excitement to the usual avocado party.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocados until mostly smooth.
2. Add the chopped red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped cilantro leaves.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the guacamole to prevent air from reaching it.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve with tortilla chips and enjoy your Spiderweb Guacamole!

Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes (prep only)

Candy Corn Fruit Parfait

Brighten up your day with this colorful and refreshing treat that combines the flavors of candy corn, fresh fruit, and creamy yogurt. This Candy Corn Fruit Parfait is perfect for a quick snack or dessert.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup candy corn, crushed
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Whipped cream and additional candy corn for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the vanilla yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Layer the mixed berries, pineapple chunks, and yogurt mixture in a glass or parfait dish.
3. Sprinkle crushed candy corn over the top of the parfait.
4. If desired, top with whipped cream and additional candy corn for an extra festive touch.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and chill until ready to serve.

Jack-O’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers

Get ready to delight your senses with this seasonal twist on traditional stuffed peppers! This recipe combines the classic flavors of bell peppers, rice, and cheese with a Halloween-inspired flair.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked sausage (such as chorizo or Italian sausage)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jack-o’-lantern face made from sliced black olives or pimentos

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, shredded cheese, and chopped sausage.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. If desired, create a jack-o’-lantern face using sliced black olives or pimentos.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Black Cat Oreo Truffles

Transform your favorite Oreos into bite-sized treats that are purr-fectly delicious and adorable. These black cat-shaped truffles make for a unique and thoughtful gift or party favor.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of Black Cat-themed Oreos (or regular Oreos with black gel icing)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for coating

Instructions:

1. Crush the Oreos in a food processor until fine crumbs form.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreos, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 truffles.
4. Place the confectioners’ sugar on a plate or tray. Roll each truffle in the sugar to coat.
5. Use black gel icing to draw whisker details on each truffle.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: None

Ghostly Banana Pudding Cups

These bite-sized treats are a hauntingly delicious twist on traditional banana pudding. With a silky-smooth pudding, crispy cookies, and tender bananas, you’ll be spellbound by their flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 package of Nilla wafers (about 20-25 wafers)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Arrange 5-6 Nilla wafers in the bottom of a small glass or cup.
4. Spoon cooled pudding over the cookies.
5. Top with sliced bananas.
6. Repeat layers one more time, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooling and chilling)

Poison Apple Cider Punch

Get ready to cast a spell with this wickedly delicious apple cider punch! This recipe is perfect for autumn gatherings, Halloween parties, or any occasion where you want to serve something that’s sure to cast a spell.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/4 cup grenadine syrup
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of red apples and fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, pineapple juice, and lemon-lime soda.
2. Add grenadine and simple syrup; stir until combined.
3. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the Poison Apple Cider Punch over ice in glasses or mugs.
5. Garnish with apple slices and a sprig of rosemary for a wickedly elegant touch.

Cooking Time: None!

Zombie Brain Jello Shots

Get ready to dig into the brains of the undead with these eerie and tasty jello shots. These Zombie Brain Jello Shots are a perfect treat for any horror movie night or Halloween party.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup white grape juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon green food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
– Edible gold dust (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the unsweetened gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add the boiling water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in white grape juice, heavy cream, green food coloring, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture into brain-shaped molds or small cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle with edible gold dust (if using).

Cooking Time: 4-8 hours (refrigeration time)

Bone Breadsticks with Marinara Sauce

Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy bone-shaped breadsticks served alongside a rich and tangy marinara sauce. Perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Cut into bone shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.
4. Place the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Season with salt.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Haunted House Gingerbread Cookies

Get ready to conjure up some spooky sweetness with these Haunted House Gingerbread Cookies! Perfect for Halloween parties or a fun treat any time of the year, these cookies are sure to cast a spell on your taste buds.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 egg
– Black gel or royal icing for details (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., ghosts, bats, spiders).
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Witch’s Brew Green Smoothie

Get ready to cast a spell of nourishment with this enchanting green smoothie! This refreshing blend combines the best of nature’s magic to boost your energy and vitality.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups spinach
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/2 cup frozen mango
– 1/4 cup coconut water
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)

Instructions:

1. Add the spinach, pineapple, and mango to a blender.
2. Pour in the coconut water and add the chia seeds.
3. If using protein powder, add it now.
4. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed by adding more frozen fruit or ice cubes.
6. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy blend that’s ready in minutes.

Enjoy your Witch’s Brew Green Smoothie, perfect for a magical morning pick-me-up or an afternoon energy boost!

Frankenstein’s Monster Cupcakes

Create a howling good time with these monstrous cupcakes inspired by the classic tale of Frankenstein’s monster. Rich chocolate cake, creamy buttercream frosting, and a dash of edible gold dust come together to create a treat that’s sure to make your taste buds scream with delight.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttercream frosting (see below for recipe)
– Edible gold dust (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and milk until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin tin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Buttercream Frosting:

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Combine butter and powdered sugar in a bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.

Eyeball Meatballs with Spaghetti

Get ready to serve up a dish that’s sure to raise some eyebrows – literally! These Eyeball Meatballs are the perfect addition to any spooky-themed party or dinner gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Spaghetti, cooked according to package instructions

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into small portions, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Shape each portion into an eyeball shape using your thumb to create a depression for the “pupil.”
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with cooked spaghetti and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Pumpkin Patch Brownie Bites

Get ready for a fall treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the richness of fudgy brownies! These bite-sized morsels are perfect for snacking on while enjoying the crisp autumn air or as a delightful addition to your Halloween party.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Spoon batter into mini muffin cups, filling about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).

Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Slime Punch with Gummy Worms

Get ready to delight your kids (and adults alike!) with this fun and refreshing drink that’s perfect for parties or special occasions. This Slime Punch recipe is a sweet and tangy treat that combines the classic flavors of fruit punch with the added excitement of gummy worms.

Ingredients:

– 2 liters of lemon-lime soda
– 1 cup of pineapple juice
– 1 cup of orange juice
– 1/2 cup of grenadine syrup
– 1/4 cup of simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved)
– 1 bag of gummy worms (assorted colors)
– Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Fill a large pitcher with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the lemon-lime soda, pineapple juice, and orange juice.
3. Add the grenadine syrup and simple syrup. Stir well to combine.
4. Add the gummy worms to the punch and stir gently to distribute evenly.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.

Summary

Get ready for a spook-tacular Halloween potluck with these 20 ghoulishly good recipes! From “Witch’s Finger Cookies” to “Zombie Brain Jello Shots”, there’s something for every ghost and ghoul. Serve up “Pumpkin-Shaped Cheese Ball” with crackers, or delight your guests with “Mummy Hot Dogs in Puff Pastry”. Add some eeriness to the menu with “Bloody Deviled Eggs” or “Spiderweb Guacamole”. And don’t forget the sweet treats – like “Candy Corn Fruit Parfait” and “Black Cat Oreo Truffles”. This collection of recipes is sure to cast a spell on your guests!

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