There’s something magical about Halloween baking. The cozy kitchen fills with the warm aroma of chocolate cookies while colorful decorations cover the counters. Kids giggle as they sneak candy eyes from the bowl, and suddenly, the simple act of baking turns into a festive memory. That’s exactly the spirit behind Cauldron Cookie Cups—adorable little chocolate cookie cups that bubble over with green frosting “potion,” pretzel handles, and spooky candy toppings.

These little cauldrons are a party showstopper. Not only are they deliciously rich and chocolatey, but they’re also interactive to decorate. Whether you’re planning a school Halloween party, a family movie night, or just want to surprise your neighbors with something spooky-sweet, these cookie cups will bring the magic.

They’re made by baking rich chocolate cookie dough in muffin tins, creating little “pots.” Then, with a swirl of green frosting, a sprinkle of sprinkles, candy eyes peeking out, and broken pretzel twists shaped into handles, each cookie cup transforms into a bubbling witch’s brew. Kids absolutely love adding the final touches—gummy worms, crushed Oreos, or candy pearls can all make appearances as creepy little potion ingredients.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Green frosting (homemade or store-bought)
Candy eyes
Green sprinkles or sanding sugar
Pretzel twists (for handles)
Optional: crushed Oreos, gummy worms, small candy pearls

Instructions

Prepare the oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line with paper cups.
Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Form the dough: Slowly add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
Shape cookie cups: Scoop dough into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ⅔ full. Use the back of a spoon to press down slightly in the center.
Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set but centers are soft. Remove from oven and immediately press the centers down with a spoon to form a “cup.” Let cool completely.
Decorate cauldrons: Pipe green frosting into each cookie cup. Add candy eyes, sprinkles, and extra toppings to make the potion look bubbly.
Add handles: Break pretzels and insert pieces into the sides of the cookie cups as cauldron handles.
Serve & enjoy: Arrange on a platter and watch the smiles appear at your Halloween party!