These Chocolate Pear Ghosts are a spooky yet delicious treat that combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the rich decadence of chocolate. Perfect for Halloween or any festive occasion, they’re easy to make, fun to assemble, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. The subtle pear flavor pairs beautifully with the dark chocolate coating, and the simple ghost shape adds a playful touch. Get ready to surprise your guests with these frightfully good delights!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these ghostly treats:
- 4 ripe pears (Bosc or Anjou work best)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or milk chocolate if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for thinning chocolate)
- Mini chocolate chips or edible eyes (for decorating)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, for a “foggy” effect)
- Wooden sticks or skewers (optional, for easy handling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pears:
Wash and dry the pears thoroughly. Cut the pears in half and remove the core and seeds. If using wooden sticks or skewers, carefully insert them into the bottom of each pear half to make them easier to dip and handle. - Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. If you’re using coconut oil, stir it in with the chocolate to thin it slightly for easier dipping. - Dip the Pears:
Dip each pear half into the melted chocolate, covering the entire cut surface. You can also tilt the pear to get a more “ghostly” uneven coat of chocolate if you want it to resemble a ghost more closely. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off. - Decorate the Ghosts:
Once the pears are coated, place them on a tray lined with parchment paper. Use mini chocolate chips or edible eyes to create faces on the pear ghosts. For a spooky touch, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar over the top of the chocolate to create a misty, “foggy” effect. - Chill and Set:
Refrigerate the pears for about 15–20 minutes to let the chocolate harden and set. - Serve:
Once the chocolate has fully set, your Chocolate Pear Ghosts are ready to be served! Arrange them on a plate or dessert tray, and enjoy the spooky sweetness!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8 (1 pear half per serving)
Calories per Serving: Approximately 180
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 1g
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 20–30 minutes
How to Serve
- Serve as a fun and spooky treat at Halloween parties or gatherings.
- Display on a festive platter with other themed snacks for a ghostly dessert table.
- Pair with a warm drink like hot chocolate, cider, or pumpkin spice latte for a seasonal treat.
Additional Tips
- Make it Ahead: These pear ghosts can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge for freshness. Just make sure they are covered properly in an airtight container to avoid moisture affecting the chocolate coating.
- Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate! You can use white chocolate for a “brighter” ghost, or drizzle some colored chocolate over the dark chocolate coating for an extra festive touch.
- Add a Crunch: For a bit of texture, try sprinkling chopped nuts, granola, or crushed graham crackers on top of the chocolate before it sets.
- Make it Vegan: Use dairy-free chocolate and skip the coconut oil if you prefer a vegan option.
Recipe Variations
- Caramel Drizzle: After the chocolate has set, drizzle some caramel over the top for an extra layer of flavor.
- Peanut Butter Ghosts: Add a spoonful of peanut butter inside the pear before dipping it in chocolate for a delicious peanut-buttery surprise.
- Minty Ghosts: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate for a cool, minty twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these Chocolate Pear Ghosts alongside other Halloween treats like mummy hot dogs, popcorn balls, or cupcakes for a fun dessert spread.
- For a themed drink pairing, serve with a Halloween-inspired punch or a classic apple cider.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: These Chocolate Pear Ghosts freeze well! Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pears will last longer if they’re coated and stored properly.
Special Equipment
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Wooden sticks or skewers (optional)
- Parchment paper
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different fruit besides pears?
A1: Yes! You could use apple halves or even thick slices of bananas for a similar effect. However, pears have a firmer texture, which helps hold the chocolate better.
Q2: How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
A2: Make sure the pears are chilled before dipping, and allow the chocolate to cool slightly before dipping the fruit. You can also temper the chocolate to create a smoother, more stable coating.
Q3: Can I make these in advance?
A3: Yes! These are great to make a day or two ahead of time. Just keep them in the fridge in an airtight container.
Q4: How can I make these dairy-free?
A4: Use dairy-free chocolate (many dark chocolates are naturally dairy-free) and skip the coconut oil if desired.
Q5: Can I use different toppings for the ghosts?
A5: Absolutely! You can use small candy eyes, sprinkles, or even create faces with colored frosting for a more detailed look.
These Chocolate Pear Ghosts are a simple yet delicious treat that adds a fun, spooky twist to your Halloween or fall-themed gatherings. With minimal ingredients and quick prep, you can whip up a batch of these in no time and impress your guests with this delightful dessert!
PrintChocolate Pear Ghosts
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 ripe pears (Bosc or Anjou work best)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or milk chocolate if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for thinning chocolate)
- Mini chocolate chips or edible eyes (for decorating)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, for a “foggy” effect)
- Wooden sticks or skewers (optional, for easy handling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pears:
Wash and dry the pears thoroughly. Cut the pears in half and remove the core and seeds. If using wooden sticks or skewers, carefully insert them into the bottom of each pear half to make them easier to dip and handle. - Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. If you’re using coconut oil, stir it in with the chocolate to thin it slightly for easier dipping. - Dip the Pears:
Dip each pear half into the melted chocolate, covering the entire cut surface. You can also tilt the pear to get a more “ghostly” uneven coat of chocolate if you want it to resemble a ghost more closely. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off. - Decorate the Ghosts:
Once the pears are coated, place them on a tray lined with parchment paper. Use mini chocolate chips or edible eyes to create faces on the pear ghosts. For a spooky touch, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar over the top of the chocolate to create a misty, “foggy” effect. - Chill and Set:
Refrigerate the pears for about 15–20 minutes to let the chocolate harden and set. - Serve:
Once the chocolate has fully set, your Chocolate Pear Ghosts are ready to be served! Arrange them on a plate or dessert tray, and enjoy the spooky sweetness!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 1g