Save to Pinterest A whimsical and festive candy platter arranged to resemble a cheerful scarecrow—perfect for autumn gatherings, Halloween parties, or a fun edible centerpiece.
This candy platter always brightens up our Halloween parties and is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- Base & Face: 1 round sugar cookie (8–10 inches diameter) or large round rice cake, 1/3 cup vanilla or cream cheese frosting, 2 tablespoons peanut butter (optional for flavor)
- Decorations: 1/4 cup candy corn, 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, 1/4 cup orange jelly beans or orange M&Ms, 1/4 cup pretzel sticks, 1/4 cup red licorice strings, 2 large marshmallows, 6–8 mini chocolate cookies (e.g. mini Oreos) for hat, 1/4 cup shredded coconut tinted yellow with food coloring (for straw hair), 1/4 cup chocolate sprinkles, 1/4 cup assorted gummy candies (for cheeks and bow tie)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Place the large sugar cookie or rice cake on a serving platter to form the scarecrows face.
- Step 2:
- Spread an even layer of frosting over the surface. Swirl in peanut butter if using.
- Step 3:
- Arrange the tinted shredded coconut along the top and sides of the cookie to resemble straw hair.
- Step 4:
- Create the hat by lining mini chocolate cookies above the hair, using a marshmallow for the hats tip if desired.
- Step 5:
- Use chocolate chips or candies for the eyes. Slice a marshmallow in half for extra large eyes, if you like, and place a chocolate chip in the center of each.
- Step 6:
- Form a triangle nose with orange jelly beans or M&Ms.
- Step 7:
- Make a smiling mouth using red licorice strings.
- Step 8:
- Add cheeks with round gummy candies.
- Step 9:
- Decorate around the base with candy corn and additional gummies for a festive look.
- Step 10:
- Use pretzel sticks to create a bow tie beneath the face.
- Step 11:
- Scatter chocolate sprinkles for extra detail. Serve immediately or cover until ready to present.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering around this platter and picking their favorite candies while sharing spooky stories.
Required Tools
Large serving platter, spatula or offset knife, small bowls for sorting candies, kitchen scissors (for cutting licorice)
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (in cookies and some candies), dairy (in frosting), peanuts (if using peanut butter), soy, and possible tree nuts (depending on candy and cookie brands). Some candies may contain gelatin (not vegetarian). Always check ingredient labels for allergens and cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories 230, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 39 g, Protein 2 g
Save to Pinterest This scarecrow candy platter adds a delightful and easy touch to any fall celebration.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use a gluten-free base for this platter?
Yes, you can substitute the sugar cookie with a gluten-free cookie or a large rice cake to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → Is peanut butter required in the frosting layer?
Peanut butter is optional and used for added flavor. You can omit it for a nut-free variation without affecting the overall look.
- → How can I color the shredded coconut for the scarecrow's hair?
Mix shredded coconut with a few drops of yellow food coloring inside a sealed bag, then shake until evenly tinted.
- → What candies work best for the scarecrow's facial features?
Mini chocolate chips can serve as eyes, jelly beans or orange candies form the nose, licorice strings create a mouth, and gummy candies add cheeks and a bow tie accent.
- → Can this arrangement be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the candy platter shortly before serving and cover to keep fresh. Avoid assembling too early to maintain candy texture and freshness.