Freaky Ladies' Fingers (Halloween)
- 24 blanched almonds (halved lengthwise)
- red food coloring
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon yeast (scant)
- 5 -6 cups flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 1 large egg
- sea salt (to garnish)
- dried rosemary (to garnish)
- Place a small amount of food coloring in a bowl and with a new paint brush "paint" the almond halves on the rounded side. Set aside.
- In a Mixing bowl place water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for five minutes to let yeast work.
- Beat 1 c flour in till combined. Beat in salt and 3-1/2 c flour till combined. Beat till dough pulls away from the sides.
- Reduce speed and add 1/2c flour (if dough is still sticky add up to 1 c more flour).
- Knead till smooth.
- Coat a large bowl with cooking spray and put dough in covering with plastic wrap and put in a warm place to double in size (1 hour).
- Heat oven to 450.
- Heat 3 quarts water to boiling.
- Add baking soda.
- Lightly coat two baking sheets with pan spray.Divide dough into quarters.
- Work with one at a time keeping the rest covered.
- Divide each piece in 12 pieces. On a lightly floured surface roll pieces back and forth into a finger shape, ( 3-4 inches long) make sure to leave a lump for the knuckle.
- When all 12 pieces are formed transfer to boiling soda water.
- Poach for 1 minute, using a slotted spoon transfer to a baking sheet.
- Repeat till all 4 quarters are done.
- Beat egg with 1 T water and brush over pretzels.
- Using a sharp knife score each knuckle about 3 times. Sprinkle with salt ( and rosemary if using).
- Possition the almond nails into place and push down to secure.
- Bake in oven for 12-15 minutes or till golden brown.
- Let cool on a wire rack.
- These are best if eaten the first day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
blanched almonds, red food coloring, water, sugar, yeast, flour, salt, baking soda, egg, salt, rosemary
Taken from www.food.com/recipe/freaky-ladies-fingers-halloween-139149 (may not work)