Graveyard Bark

If you’re looking for a fun and easy treat to whip up this Halloween, you’ve come to the right place! Graveyard Bark is not only a delightful dessert but also an exciting project that you can enjoy making with your kids. Imagine their faces lighting up as they create spooky treats that are perfect for Halloween parties or simply to enjoy at home. This recipe is a favorite because it’s quick, requires minimal ingredients, and lets everyone get creative in the kitchen!

What makes this Graveyard Bark special is its versatility and deliciousness. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want something sweet and fun after dinner, this bark fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover Halloween candy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With only a few steps involved, even beginner cooks can confidently whip up this treat in no time.
• Family-friendly fun: Kids love getting involved in the kitchen, and Graveyard Bark is the perfect recipe to let them help out!
• Customizable: You can mix and match your favorite candies and toppings to make it your own.
• Deliciously indulgent: The combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and cookies creates a wonderfully sweet flavor that everyone will love.
• Great for sharing: Cut into pieces for a perfect party treat or pack it up as gifts for friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Graveyard Bark is super simple with these wholesome ingredients! You likely have many of these on hand or can easily grab them from the store. Let’s gather what we need for this tasty treat!

For the Base

• 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

For the Toppings

• ¼ cup pretzel sticks (roughly chopped)
• Candy eyes
• ½ cup Oreo cookies (crushed)

Variations

One of the best parts about Graveyard Bark is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the chocolate: Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Add different candies: Try adding gummy worms or other candies for extra spookiness!
• Change up the toppings: Substitute crushed graham crackers or nuts for Oreos if you prefer a different texture.
• Make it seasonal: Use colored candy melts that match upcoming holidays like Christmas or Valentine’s Day!

How to Make Graveyard Bark

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients together. It’s important to ensure everything is ready so that you can work efficiently. Prepping now means less chaos later!

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your milk chocolate bars with the solid vegetable shortening. Microwave in bursts of 30 seconds until melted and smooth, stirring between each interval. This step ensures your chocolate has a glossy finish when set.

Step 3: Create Your Bark Base

Spread the melted chocolate evenly onto a lined baking sheet. Make sure it’s nice and thick! This base will hold all those delightful toppings together while adding that rich chocolate flavor we adore.

Step 4: Add Toppings

While your chocolate is still warm, sprinkle on crushed Oreos, roughly chopped pretzel sticks, mini vegan marshmallows, and candy eyes generously across the surface. This part is where you can really let your creativity shine!

Step 5: Drizzle White Chocolate

If you’d like a spooky touch, melt your white chocolate candy melts with red food coloring and drizzle over the bark. This step adds both flair and flavor—what could be better?

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Place your tray in the refrigerator for about two hours or until fully set. Patience pays off here; waiting ensures that every piece breaks perfectly without crumbling.

Step 7: Break Into Pieces

Once set, break your bark into pieces with your hands or use a knife for more uniform shapes. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container until you’re ready to share.

Now you’re all set to impress friends and family with this delightful Graveyard Bark! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Graveyard Bark

Creating the perfect Graveyard Bark is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to guide you along the way!

• Use quality chocolate: High-quality chocolate not only melts better but also enhances the overall flavor of your bark, making it more enjoyable.
• Chop pretzels evenly: Roughly chop the pretzel sticks to ensure even distribution throughout the bark. This helps maintain a balanced crunch in every bite.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the bark to cool thoroughly before breaking it into pieces will ensure clean edges and prevent messy fingers when serving.
• Get creative with toppings: Feel free to mix in additional treats like vegan gummy worms or candy corn for a fun twist that adds color and texture to your graveyard scene.

How to Serve Graveyard Bark

When it comes to presenting your spooky Graveyard Bark, creativity is key! Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or just treating your family, there are plenty of ways to make this treat shine.

Garnishes

• Sprinkles: Use Halloween-themed sprinkles to add a festive touch. They can bring additional color and excitement to your dessert table.
• Chocolate drizzle: A quick drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top can create an elegant look while enhancing the chocolate flavor.

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Spice Popcorn: This sweet and savory snack is perfect for munching alongside your bark. The pumpkin spice adds a seasonal touch that complements Halloween festivities.
• Fruit Skeleton Skewers: Assemble colorful fruit on skewers to create fun skeleton shapes. Not only do they provide a refreshing contrast, but they also add nutrition to your dessert spread.
• Ghostly Banana Bites: Slice bananas and dip them in white chocolate, then use mini chocolate chips for eyes. These cute treats are delightful and healthy!

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be all set for a spooky yet delicious celebration that everyone will remember. Enjoy making your Graveyard Bark!

Make Ahead and Storage

Graveyard Bark is not only a fun treat to make, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up this delightful dessert ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment, making it a fantastic addition to your Halloween festivities.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Graveyard Bark in an airtight container.
• Keep it at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, you can refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• Wrap the Graveyard Bark tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat Graveyard Bark, as it’s best enjoyed at room temperature.
• If you prefer a softer texture, let it sit out for about 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions people have about making Graveyard Bark!

Can I use different types of chocolate for Graveyard Bark?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses milk chocolate bars and white chocolate candy melts, feel free to experiment with dark chocolate or even flavored chocolate melts for a unique twist.

How do I make Graveyard Bark look more festive?

You can add various toppings like sprinkles, colored candies, or additional crushed cookies. Get creative with your decorations to enhance the spooky theme!

How long does Graveyard Bark stay fresh?

Graveyard Bark stays fresh for about one week at room temperature if stored properly in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Can I make Graveyard Bark without vegan marshmallows?

Yes! If you can’t find vegan marshmallows, simply omit them or substitute them with mini marshmallows that meet your dietary preferences.

What other occasions can I serve Graveyard Bark?

While it’s perfect for Halloween, you can enjoy Graveyard Bark at birthday parties, movie nights, or any gathering where fun treats are welcome!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Graveyard Bark as I am! It’s such a special treat that brings a touch of whimsy and fun to any Halloween celebration. Enjoy getting creative in the kitchen with the kids and savor every delicious bite. Happy baking, and may your Halloween be filled with joy and tasty treats!