Save Spooky and sweet these white chocolate ghost strawberries are my go-to for any festive Halloween gathering and they have never failed to bring a smile to both kids and grownups alike. Even when I am swamped prepping other party snacks these come together in a flash and everyone loves the ghostly faces peeking from the dessert tray.
I remember my first batch disappearing before the party even started thanks to my niece who declared them scary cute and recruited her friends to make more with me.
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: juicy and sweet with stems on for easy dipping and holding choose large uniform berries for the best ghost shape
- White chocolate or white chocolate chips: smooth and creamy look for real cocoa butter in the ingredient list for better flavor and texture
- Coconut oil or vegetable shortening: helps you achieve a silky melted chocolate coats evenly and sets with a pleasant snap use refined coconut oil for a neutral taste
- Mini dark chocolate chips: perfect for creating tiny expressive ghost eyes pick a high-quality or decorate grade chip for sharp definition
- Regular dark chocolate chips or mini chips: just right for forming a little ghost mouth make sure they are not too large or they will look monstrous
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper making sure the surface is smooth so your dipped strawberries will not stick or flatten as they set
- Melt the White Chocolate:
- Combine white chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl heat in short intervals of 20 seconds stirring thoroughly each time until just smooth be careful not to overheat which can cause graininess
- Dip the Strawberries:
- Grip each strawberry by the stem dip it into the melted chocolate and gently swirl to envelop the fruit up to the top avoid letting any water into the chocolate as this can cause it to seize
- Decorate the Ghost Faces:
- While the chocolate is still wet press two mini dark chocolate chips into each strawberry for eyes and one regular or mini chip below for a mouth space them evenly to create expressive ghost faces
- Let the Treats Set:
- Arrange coated strawberries on the lined baking sheet let them rest at room temperature until the chocolate hardens or refrigerate for around 10 minutes for a quicker set ensure they do not touch so faces stay perfect
- Serve or Store:
- Once set serve immediately or transfer to a plate and chill until ready to serve for the freshest texture avoid stacking to prevent smudging the ghost decorations
Save Hands-down my favorite part is letting my nephew choose the expressions for each ghost one year he gave every strawberry a different emotion and it turned into the best guessing game at dessert time I look forward to decorating these every season with my kids making a tradition of spookiness and laughter
Storage Tips
Store in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day after setting do not freeze as strawberries can become mushy when thawed If making ahead dip and decorate in the morning and keep chilled until party time Leftovers will last overnight though the chocolate coating may lose a little shine
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap white chocolate for candy melts in any color if you want vibrant ghosts If you need dairy-free use vegan white chocolate found in specialty stores Instead of coconut oil use vegetable shortening for a neutral flavor and smooth set
Serving Suggestions
Serve on a platter lined with edible grass or colored sprinkles for a festive effect Pair with chocolate pudding cups for graveyard themed treats Arrange on a cake stand with other fresh fruit for a healthy dessert display
Cultural and Historical Context
Trick or treat traditions always invite whimsical desserts and ghost stories these ghost strawberries add a playful touch to the table representing the fun rather than scary side of Halloween Family recipes like this one help create lasting memories each holiday
Seasonal Adaptations
Use red or orange colored candy melts for fall-themed ghosts Decorate with edible glitter for extra sparkle Dip strawberries in dark chocolate for a bat or monster twist
Save There is nothing quite like seeing a tray of these ghost strawberries disappear while the laughter grows around the table
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I get a smooth white chocolate coating?
Add a small amount of coconut oil or shortening to the white chocolate while melting to achieve a glossy, smooth finish.
- → What is the best way to dry strawberries before dipping?
Pat the strawberries dry with a paper towel and let them air dry thoroughly. Any moisture can cause the coating to slip off.
- → Can I use different chocolates for decorations?
Yes, colored candy melts or other chocolate types work well for customizing the ghost faces and adding extra fun colors.
- → How long do these strawberry treats last?
For best texture and appearance, enjoy the treats the same day they are prepared. They can be refrigerated for short periods.
- → Are these strawberry ghosts suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, provided you use certified gluten-free chocolate varieties for both coating and decorations.
- → Can I prepare these treats ahead of time?
You can assemble them several hours in advance. Store chilled and serve shortly before your gathering.