Graveyard Bark

If you’re looking for a fun and festive treat to whip up on Halloween night, you’ve come to the right place! This easy Graveyard Bark is a delightful way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. Not only is it a tasty treat, but it also brings a spooky flair that will make your Halloween festivities even more special. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or taking to school parties. Trust me, this recipe will become a beloved tradition for years to come!

What I love most about Graveyard Bark is how simple it is to make. With just a few wholesome ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious dessert that everyone will adore. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity for your little ones to unleash their creativity while decorating!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this spooky bark ready in no time!
• Family Fun: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen and getting creative with toppings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this treat ahead of time so you can focus on enjoying the festivities.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chocolate, pretzels, and marshmallows creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that making Graveyard Bark is as simple as gathering a few wholesome ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 20 pretzel sticks (whole)
• ½ cup mini vegan marshmallows
• 1 cup white chocolate candy melts (melted)
• 22 ounces milk chocolate bars
• 1 tablespoon solid vegetable shortening

For Decoration

• ¼ cup pretzel sticks (roughly chopped)
• Candy eyes
• ½ cup Oreo cookies (crushed)
• Red food coloring (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about Graveyard Bark is how flexible it is! You can easily switch up ingredients or add new flavors based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

• Add Different Candies: Toss in some gummy worms or Halloween-themed sprinkles for extra fun!
• Change Up the Chocolate: Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer taste.
• Try Different Crunchy Add-Ins: Incorporate nuts or seeds for added texture if desired.
• Make It Colorful: Use colored melting chocolates instead of white chocolate for a vibrant look!

How to Make Graveyard Bark

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Start by melting the milk chocolate bars along with the solid vegetable shortening. This step is crucial as it ensures that your bark has that smooth and glossy finish. Microwave them in short bursts, stirring between each until fully melted.

Step 2: Prepare Your Base

Once melted, pour the chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it evenly. This forms the base of your bark. It’s important to work quickly so that your chocolate doesn’t harden before you add all those fun toppings!

Step 3: Add Toppings

While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle on your chopped pretzels, crushed Oreos, mini marshmallows, and candy eyes. If you’re using red food coloring, drizzle it over now for an extra spooky touch! Press down gently on each topping to ensure they stick.

Step 4: Let It Set

Now comes the hardest part—waiting! Allow your bark to cool at room temperature for about two hours or pop it in the fridge for quicker results. Once set, break it into pieces and get ready to enjoy!

This Graveyard Bark not only tastes fantastic but also looks adorable with its playful decorations. I hope you enjoy making this treat as much as I do! Happy Halloween!

Pro Tips for Making Graveyard Bark

Making Graveyard Bark is a fun and creative way to celebrate Halloween, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your treat even further!

• Use quality chocolate: High-quality chocolate melts will give your bark a rich flavor and smooth texture, making it even more enjoyable.
• Chill before cutting: Once set, let the bark chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This ensures that it’s firm enough to cut without breaking apart.
• Customize your toppings: Feel free to mix and match your favorite candies or snacks! Adding gummy worms or candy bones can make your graveyard scene even spookier.
• Experiment with colors: Get creative with food coloring! Swirling in some red food coloring can mimic a blood-like effect for an extra creepy touch.
• Involve the kids: Letting children help decorate the bark not only makes it more fun but also creates wonderful memories in the kitchen together.

How to Serve Graveyard Bark

When it comes to serving Graveyard Bark, presentation can take your spooky treat to the next level. Here are some delightful ideas to serve up this Halloween favorite!

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of crushed Oreos: Adding a light dusting of crushed Oreo cookies on top enhances the dirt effect, making it even more thematic.
• Candy pumpkins: Placing small candy pumpkins on top offers a festive touch that’s perfect for Halloween and adds that pop of color.

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup complements the sweetness of the bark beautifully, providing a savory contrast.
• Veggie Platter: Fresh veggies paired with a delicious dip add crunch and healthiness to your dessert spread. It’s a great way to balance out all that sweetness!
• Apple Slices with Nut Butter: Crisp apple slices dipped in nut butter make for a refreshing side dish that pairs wonderfully with sweet treats like bark.
• Popcorn Mix: A spooky popcorn mix with chocolate drizzle and Halloween-themed candies makes an excellent snack alongside the Graveyard Bark, adding variety to your dessert table.

With these serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress friends and family at your Halloween gathering! Enjoy creating and indulging in this festive treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Graveyard Bark is perfect for meal prep and can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy your Halloween festivities without any last-minute stress. Here are some easy tips on how to store and enjoy your delicious treat over time.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Graveyard Bark in an airtight container.
• Keep it at room temperature for up to a week.
• For longer freshness, consider placing parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing

• Wrap pieces of Graveyard Bark tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to three months for best quality.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this bark; simply enjoy it straight from the fridge or freezer!
• If desired, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes after removing from the freezer before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Graveyard Bark that might help you out!

Can I customize the toppings on my Graveyard Bark?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. You can add different types of candy, nuts, or even sprinkles to match your Halloween theme.

How can I make my Graveyard Bark more festive?

To enhance the Halloween vibes, you might consider using colored candy melts or adding themed candies like gummy worms or spooky sprinkles on top of your Graveyard Bark before it sets.

What’s the best way to serve Graveyard Bark?

Graveyard Bark can be broken into fun-sized pieces and served on a platter. It also makes for a great treat to package as party favors!

How long does Graveyard Bark stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this yummy treat can last up to a week at room temperature and up to three months in the freezer!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Graveyard Bark as I am! It’s not just a delightful dessert; it’s also a wonderful way to create lasting memories with friends and family during Halloween. Enjoy every moment spent crafting this spooky treat, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your decorations. Happy Halloween baking!