Save White chocolate ghost strawberries transform ordinary berries into charming Halloween treats that disappear almost as fast as they appear on a party table. Whether you are hosting kids or friends or just want something spooky but sweet these ghostly bites are undeniably fun to make and to eat.
I first whipped these up for our annual pumpkin carving night and the kitchen was full of laughter and ghost giggles as everyone decorated their own strawberry faces. They quickly became a must every October.
Ingredients
- Fresh large strawberries with stems: the better the berry the juicier and cuter your ghosts will look
- White chocolate or white chocolate chips: make sure it smells rich and creamy opt for a premium fleck-free brand
- Coconut oil or vegetable shortening: helps your white chocolate melt super smooth and shiny
- Mini dark chocolate chips: little drops for bright ghost eyes pick chips with a glossy finish for best look
- Regular or mini dark chocolate chips: you will use these for ghost mouths pick a brand that is easy to stick and not crumbly
- Quality matters for both chocolate and berries: I always inspect strawberries for firmness and no bruises and taste the chocolate before melting for flavor.
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Set out a baking sheet lined with parchment paper this keeps the strawberries from sticking and catches any extra chocolate
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Place white chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave safe bowl use short 20 second bursts stirring every time until perfectly smooth and glossy be very careful not to overheat white chocolate or it will seize I always stir gently with a spatula and stop heating when a few small pieces remain letting those melt from residual heat
- Dip the Strawberries:
- Hold each strawberry firmly by the stem and lower into the melted chocolate swirl slowly so the berry gets evenly coated let excess drip off to give your ghosts their wispy tail shapes then place onto the lined baking sheet
- Decorate Their Faces:
- Before the chocolate sets quickly press two mini dark chocolate chips for eyes and one regular or mini chip for the mouth arrange so each ghost has its own silly or spooky look this is the part my kids love most because every ghost gets a personality
- Set the Ghosts:
- Let the strawberries rest at room temperature until the chocolate is fully hard I prefer this for the best shine but if you are in a hurry refrigerate for ten to fifteen minutes to speed up the process just take care not to leave them too long in the fridge or condensation could form
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer to a platter and enjoy right away or chill until ready to serve these taste best the same day as the berries are freshest
Save My favorite part is letting everyone in the family design their own faces sometimes we make a whole spooky scene with surprised and scary ghosts all lined up for Halloween dessert.
Storage Tips
Store ghost strawberries in a single layer covered loosely at room temperature if serving soon. If you need to store longer keep them refrigerated on parchment but serve promptly for best quality. Avoid freezing as strawberries become mushy when thawed.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try vegan white chocolate to suit dairy free or vegan diets. Use any small candy bits for eyes or mouths colored candy melts work for a whole rainbow of ghosts. Shortening instead of coconut oil gives a neutral finish if preferred.
Serving Suggestions
Pile these ghosts on a dark platter for dramatic party drama. Tuck them into Halloween snack boxes or use as cupcake toppers. For adults pair with sparkling wine or a mug of cocoa for a playful after dinner treat.
Cultural and Historical Context
Chocolate covered strawberries have been a favorite since the 1960s but jazzing them up for holidays is a newer twist that brings everyone together in the kitchen. Adding faces gives them a touch of whimsy and lets kids be creative along with grown ups.
Save The chocolate sets best in a cool dry room. Choose ripe but firm strawberries for easier dunking. Get creative with ghost faces every batch looks a little different.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use candy melts for different colors?
Yes, swap white chocolate for colored candy melts to create vibrant ghosts for variety and extra fun.
- → How do I prevent chocolate from being too thick?
Add a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable shortening when melting the chocolate for a smoother coating.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
It's best to enjoy them the same day for optimal texture and freshness, but they can be chilled for a few hours.
- → Are these treats gluten-free?
Yes, use certified gluten-free chocolate to keep the ghost strawberries suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- → Can I melt chocolate without a microwave?
Absolutely! A double boiler works well to melt chocolate gently and evenly for dipping strawberries.
- → What tools do I need for preparation?
You'll need a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, spoon or spatula, baking sheet, and parchment paper.