Graveyard Bark

If you’re looking for a fun and easy treat to make on Halloween night, you’ve come to the right place! This Graveyard Bark is not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up, and it’s perfect for sharing at family gatherings or school parties. The combination of creamy chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and playful decorations makes this bark a memorable dessert that everyone will enjoy.

What I adore about this recipe is that it brings a bit of spooky flair without being too complicated. Plus, it’s a great way to celebrate the season with some sweet creativity!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can create this delightful treat in no time.
• Family-friendly fun: Kids will love helping out with decorating the bark, making it a perfect family activity.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep this treat ahead of time so you can focus on enjoying Halloween festivities.
• Deliciously customizable: Use your favorite toppings and flavors to personalize your Graveyard Bark!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this Graveyard Bark! You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store.

For the Bark

• 20 pretzel sticks (whole)
• ½ cup mini vegan marshmallows
• 1 cup white chocolate candy melts (melted)
• red food coloring (optional)
• 22 ounces milk chocolate bars
• 1 tablespoon solid vegetable shortening
• ¼ cup pretzel sticks (roughly chopped)
• Candy eyes
• ½ cup Oreo cookies (crushed)

Variations

One of the best things about Graveyard Bark is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on what you have at home or what your family loves.

• Switch up the chocolate: Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped almonds or peanuts for an extra crunch.
• Try different candies: Swap out Oreos for another favorite cookie or candy bar.
• Mix in dried fruit: Add some raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy texture contrast.

How to Make Graveyard Bark

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Start by melting your milk chocolate bars along with the vegetable shortening. This step is crucial as it creates a smooth base for your bark. Stir occasionally until fully melted and well combined.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Plus, it helps keep your delicious creation intact when it’s time to cut into pieces!

Step 3: Spread the Chocolate

Once melted, pour the chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly into a rectangle shape. This is where all those delightful toppings will come together!

Step 4: Add Toppings

While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle on your chopped pretzel sticks, mini marshmallows, crushed Oreos, and candy eyes. Get creative here—arranging them can be half the fun!

Step 5: Drizzle White Chocolate

Melt your white chocolate candy melts separately and drizzle them over the top of everything. If you want to add some spooky red food coloring, now’s your chance! A few drops can give that eerie effect we all love during Halloween.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Place your baking sheet in the refrigerator for about two hours or until the bark has completely set. Patience is key here! Once set, break into pieces and serve.

And there you have it—a wonderfully festive Graveyard Bark that’s sure to be a hit! Enjoy making memories as you enjoy this sweet treat together!

Pro Tips for Making Graveyard Bark

Creating the perfect Graveyard Bark is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your treat turns out deliciously spooky!

• Use quality chocolate: Investing in good-quality chocolate bars and melts will enhance the flavor and texture of your bark, making it more enjoyable to eat.

• Be creative with toppings: Feel free to mix in additional treats like gummy worms or candy corn to make your Graveyard Bark even more festive and visually appealing!

• Work quickly with melted chocolate: Once melted, white chocolate can harden fast. Make sure to spread it evenly on the base before it sets to achieve a smooth finish.

• Let it chill properly: Allowing the bark to set in the fridge for at least two hours ensures that it hardens well, making cutting easier and preventing breakage.

• Have fun with decorations: Encourage kids to help decorate with candy eyes and crushed Oreos! It’s a great way to get everyone involved and add personal touches.

How to Serve Graveyard Bark

When it comes to presenting your delightful Graveyard Bark, think beyond just a plate! Here are some fun ideas that will surely impress your guests this Halloween.

Garnishes

• Sprinkles: Add an assortment of Halloween-themed sprinkles on top of the bark before it sets for a pop of color and festivity.
• Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the set bark creates an elegant look while adding extra flavor.

Side Dishes

• Apple slices with caramel dip: Crisp apple slices paired with a creamy vegan caramel dip provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bark.
• Pumpkin spice popcorn: This crunchy snack offers a seasonal touch and complements the rich flavors of the Graveyard Bark perfectly.
• Fruit salad: A colorful fruit salad made with seasonal fruits brings brightness to your dessert table while balancing the sweetness of your treats.
• Vegan vanilla ice cream: Creamy vegan vanilla ice cream served alongside warm pieces of bark creates an indulgent dessert experience that everyone will love.

Now that you have everything you need, gather those little kitchen helpers and start creating this spooky delight! Happy Halloween baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Graveyard Bark is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to create a delightful treat ahead of time. Whether you’re planning for a Halloween party or just want to indulge in a spooky snack, this recipe stores wonderfully!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Graveyard Bark in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to one week.
• For optimal freshness, keep it away from direct sunlight and heat.

Freezing

• Cut the bark into pieces before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat; simply enjoy your Graveyard Bark cold!
• If you prefer a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Have questions about making your own Graveyard Bark? Here are some common queries!

What can I use instead of marshmallows in Graveyard Bark?

If you’re looking for alternatives to mini vegan marshmallows, consider using chopped dried fruit or nut butter chips for added flavor and texture.

How can I make my Graveyard Bark more festive?

To amp up the Halloween spirit, add sprinkles or themed candy decorations on top before the chocolate sets. You can also drizzle melted colored candy melts over the hardened bark!

Can I customize the toppings on my Graveyard Bark?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite candies, nuts, or seeds. Get creative with how you decorate!

How long will my Graveyard Bark last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, your Graveyard Bark will stay fresh for about a week.

Final Thoughts

Making Graveyard Bark is not just about creating a delicious treat; it’s about having fun in the kitchen and getting everyone involved! This recipe brings together flavors and textures that make it special for any Halloween celebration. I hope you enjoy whipping up this delightful dessert as much as I do! Happy snacking and have a spooktacular time making your own version!