We’ll keep things short and sweet (see what happened there?) today, since many of you are still trying to figure out what your little ones are dressing up as this week. Don’t feel alone if you are still sewing or even gluing costumes together. Halloween always seems to sneak up every year. Maybe it’s because Christmas decor shows up in stores in August?
Anyway, since your kiddos will be coming home with several pounds of candy this week, we’ve rounded up a few ways to utilize some of their loot, including a few recipes, so everyone can enjoy the bounty. Plus, you won’t feel so guilty snagging a few pieces for yourself. Enjoy!
Does your little one have a birthday coming up?
Set some aside to use in favor bags or a pinata!
Use it for Thanksgiving or Christmas decor.
Grab candy wrapped in orange, yellow and brown wrappers and use as part of your Thanksgiving table setting. Or save for gingerbread house decor or Christmas cookie exchange garnish.
Put it in the mail.
Send treats to a college student, grandparents, or toss them in a military care package. Operation Shoebox will gladly accept your candy donations to send to our troops overseas.
Barter, Exchange or Sell it!
Several local dentists are participating in Operation Gratitude, another candy collection program that benefits our military personnel. They collect Halloween candy (and help you avoid cavities) in exchange for toothbrushes, toothpaste, and sometimes money.
Freeze it!
There’s no rule that says you have to eat all of your candy before Nov.1. If you like to bake, stash some of your favorites in the freezer and pull them out later in the year to use in some of our favorite recipes below, toss in a milkshake, or if you need a chocolate fix in January — we won’t judge you!
Recipes!
I saw this on her show a few weeks ago and my four-year-old instantly declared that we had to make it! While we haven’t attempted it yet, it’s on my list once we sort through her candy. I love that you can customize it by using whatever candy you have on hand, or just your favorites!
Averie Cooks’ Loaded Fudgy Candy Bar Brownies
These brownies utilize nearly every kind of candy found in your kiddo’s bucket! Plus, the brownies are made using cocoa powder, which makes for an easy, homemade brownie recipe!
Mom Time Out’s Rainbow Sugar Cookie Bark
I think these would be just as good with M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, or any type of candy bar.
How Sweet Eats’ Movie Theater Candy Chocolate Bark
A great salty/sweet combo that would be just as good with any candy you have on hand. Customize it to suit your tastes!
Do you have any other clever ways to “upcycle” Halloween candy? Share them with us. And, have a safe and HAPPY Halloween!
by Elisabeth Myrick
former OMB Contributor
