Save A whimsical and festive candy platter arranged to resemble a cheerful scarecrow—perfect for autumn gatherings, Halloween parties, or a fun edible centerpiece.
I love making this scarecrow candy platter for family events as it brings both smiles and sweet treats to the table every time.
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 scarecrow's 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 hat's 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.
Pin it Making this platter has become a fun family tradition that brings everyone together during the fall season.
Notes
Tint coconut by mixing with a few drops of yellow food coloring in a sealed bag and shaking until evenly colored. Try frosting flavors such as chocolate or maple for variation.
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.
Pin it This scarecrow candy platter is a delightful centerpiece that adds sweetness and smiles to any celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What base options can I use?
Use a large sugar cookie or a round rice cake as the base. Gluten-free cookies work well for sensitivities.
- → Can I omit peanut butter?
Yes. Peanut butter is optional and can be skipped for nut-free versions without affecting the overall look.
- → How do I tint the coconut for straw hair?
Mix shredded coconut with a few drops of yellow food coloring inside a sealed bag and shake until evenly colored.
- → What candies form the scarecrow’s face?
Candy corn, mini chocolate chips, orange jelly beans or M&Ms, pretzel sticks, red licorice strings, marshmallows, and assorted gummies create facial features and accessories.
- → How long does assembly take?
Preparation takes about 25 minutes with no cooking required, making it quick and easy for festive events.
- → Are there allergen concerns to note?
This arrangement may contain wheat, dairy, peanuts, soy, and gelatin depending on ingredient brands. Check labels carefully.