Save A whimsical dessert board inspired by the enchanting sounds of the night, featuring an assortment of sweets and treats creatively arranged to resemble a wise owl. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or themed events.
I have loved assembling this dessert board because it brings an artistic and playful touch to any event, making dessert time memorable and delightful.
Ingredients
- Base & Structure: 12 chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g. Oreos), 6 large chocolate chip cookies, 8 graham crackers, 1 cup chocolate wafer cookies
- Owl Features: 2 large round sugar cookies (for owl eyes), 6 white chocolate buttons or candy melts (for eye highlights), 2 brown M&Ms or chocolate candies (for pupils), 1 dried apricot or orange jelly bean (for beak)
- Sweet Accents: 1 cup mini marshmallows, 1 cup chocolate-covered pretzels (for wings), ½ cup dried cranberries or cherries, ½ cup mixed nuts (optional, for tree branch effect), ½ cup banana chips, ½ cup fresh blueberries
- Dipping & Garnishes: ½ cup chocolate hazelnut spread, ½ cup whipped cream or vanilla yogurt, 2 tablespoons shredded coconut (for feather detail)
Instructions
- Arrange Base:
- On a large platter or wooden board, arrange the chocolate chip cookies in a semi-circle at the base to create the owl's body.
- Place Eyes:
- Place the two large round sugar cookies at the top center for the owl's eyes. Add white chocolate buttons on top for eye highlights, and place brown M&Ms or chocolate candies in the center as pupils.
- Form Beak:
- Position the dried apricot or orange jelly bean between and just below the eyes to form the beak.
- Create Wings:
- Use chocolate-covered pretzels on either side of the body to create the wings.
- Mimic Feathers:
- Arrange chocolate sandwich cookies and wafers around the body to mimic feathers.
- Add Colors:
- Add banana chips, dried cranberries, and blueberries around the edges for color and texture.
- Simulate Tree Branch:
- Place mixed nuts and graham crackers along the bottom to resemble a tree branch.
- Prepare Dips:
- Fill small bowls with chocolate hazelnut spread and whipped cream/yogurt for dipping, and place them at the sides of the board.
- Feather Detail:
- Sprinkle shredded coconut over the feathers for added detail.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, allowing guests to pick and dip as desired.
Save Gathering around this dessert board always brings smiles and laughter to my family as everyone enjoys picking and sharing their favorite treats.
Notes
Pairs well with hot chocolate or milky tea for a cozy dessert experience.
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter, small bowls for dips, spatula or spoon for dips, food-safe tweezers (optional for precise placement).
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, soy, nuts (if using), eggs (in some cookies). May contain traces of peanuts or tree nuts. Double-check all ingredient labels if serving those with allergies.
Save This dessert board is a delightful centerpiece that combines creativity and flavor for memorable occasions.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cookies are used for the owl's eyes?
Two large round sugar cookies form the owl's eyes, enhanced with white chocolate buttons for highlights and brown M&Ms as pupils.
- → How are the owl's wings created?
Chocolate-covered pretzels are positioned on either side of the body to mimic the owl's wings, adding texture and flavor.
- → Are there fruit elements included?
Yes, banana chips, fresh blueberries, and dried cranberries add natural color, texture, and subtle flavors around the owl.
- → Can this dessert board accommodate dietary restrictions?
It is vegetarian but contains common allergens like wheat, milk, and nuts; substitutions can be made for nut allergies by using extra fruit.
- → What accompaniments are served with the board?
Small bowls of chocolate hazelnut spread and whipped cream or vanilla yogurt provide dipping options alongside the assembled board.
- → How long does preparation take?
The dessert board can be assembled in about 25 minutes with no cooking required.