Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries: Wash and thoroughly dry the strawberries. Pat them dry with paper towels and let them sit on a clean towel while you prepare the chocolate. Make sure no moisture remains, as this can cause the chocolate to seize or slip off the fruit.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate: Place the orange candy melts (or white chocolate with orange food coloring) into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each session, until completely smooth. If the chocolate is too thick, stir in the coconut oil or shortening to thin it slightly.
Step 3: Dip the Strawberries: Hold each strawberry by its leafy top and dip it into the melted chocolate, gently swirling to coat all sides evenly. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off, then place the strawberry on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Continue dipping until all strawberries are coated.
Step 4: Add the Pumpkin Ridges: Let the dipped strawberries set for 5 to 10 minutes. Fill a piping bag or a zip-top bag (with a tiny corner snipped) with the reserved melted chocolate. Pipe vertical lines from the top to the bottom of each strawberry to mimic the ridges of a pumpkin.
Step 5: Create the Patch: Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs to make a “dirt” layer. Spread the crumbs over a serving tray or platter. Arrange the decorated strawberries on top, spacing them like they’re growing in a garden. Add chocolate peanut butter cups as stepping stones for extra texture and presentation.