Sweet Ways to Repurpose Halloween Candy
Halloween gives us a lot of candy. It is fine to enjoy some treats, but we can also use those extra sweets in a fun way. Instead of letting chocolate bars and colorful candies sit around, why not get creative in baking? This Halloween, surprise yourself by using those leftover treats in unique baking recipes.
Creative Ways to Transform Halloween Candy into Baked Delights
Turning your leftover Halloween candy into baked treats is simpler than you might expect! Chocolate bars, whether filled or not, can give your favorite brownie recipe an exciting twist. You can use candies like peanut butter cups, Snickers, or Milky Ways to boost both texture and taste. Besides brownies, you can use leftover candy in cookies, cakes, and even drinks.
1. Crunchy Candy Bar Brownies
Kick your brownie game up a notch by adding some chopped candy bars. Here’s what you will need:
- Your favorite brownie mix (and the ingredients it needs)
- 1 ½ cups of chopped candy bars (pick your favorites!)
Instructions:
- First, make the brownie batter using the box instructions.
- Then, gently mix in the chopped candy bars. Make sure they spread out evenly.
- Bake them according to the box’s directions. Keep a close eye on them with a candy thermometer to not over-bake.
- Let the brownies cool down fully before you cut them into squares. Enjoy the rich, yummy taste with candy pieces!
2. Sweet and Salty Candy Corn Cookies
Get ready to enjoy some Halloween fun with these tasty cookies! They mix sweet and salty flavors in every bite.
Here’s what you need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- ½ cup of light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 ½ cups of candy corn
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cream the butter and sugars together until it’s light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until mixed well.
- In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt together.
- Slowly add the dry mix to the wet mix, stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in the candy corn.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Get creative with your family and swap the candy corn for other tasty candy treats. Divide the plain dough and add a variety of candy fillings for a fun and flavorful cookie experience
3. Pretzel Turtles
In the mood for a tasty salty-sweet snack? Try classic pretzel turtles! This treat is usually made with pecans, and Rolos but you can also use other chocolate leftover Halloween candy (Snickers, Milky way, Rolos, others):
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Put pretzels on the lined baking sheet.
- Add a caramel or candy, on top of each pretzel.
- Bake for 3-5 minutes until they get soft.
- Quickly add a pecan or other firm treat to squish the warm candy into the pretzel.
- Put it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes so the chocolate can set.
4. Caramel or Toffee Infused Drinks
For those who like a tasty drink, you can turn leftover caramel/ chocolate, or toffee into a delicious hot drink.
Here’s how to make your own caramel sauce:
- Unwrap the candy of your choice, something without hard chunks that will melt fully works best!
- Pick your favorite drink, coffee, apple cider, or milk all work great.
- Heat your chosen drink on the stove. Once simmering add a few pieces of candy.
- Wait for the candy to dissolve and add more to taste.
- Serve when ready! Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or whatever you like!
- You can always strain the drink if it doesn’t melt according to plan.
5. Incorporating candy into homemade ice cream or milkshakes
For a tasty treat, try cutting up your favorite candy bars and add them to homemade ice cream or milkshakes. Chocolate bars, peanut butter cups, and candies like M&Ms are great choices for these treats. Just mix your favorite ice cream or milkshake base with a handful of chopped candy. Blend until it is nice and creamy.
6. Halloween Chex Mix
This Halloween Chex Mix is a perfect blend of sweet and salty snacking and a fun way to repurpose Halloween candy. Get creative with the recipe, swap pretzels for popcorn, try flavored Chex mix, or get silly with the candy you add.
Ingredients:
- 6 Cups Chex Mix
- 1 Cup Pretzles
- 2 Cup candy (chopped if not small, feel free to use multiple kinds!)
- 1 Cup of Nuts
- 1/2 Cup Butter
- 1 Teaspoon Pumpkin Spice
- 1/4 Brown Sugar
- 2 tbsp Corn Syrup
Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the cereal, pretzels, candy, and nuts.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the pumpkin spice, brown sugar, and corn syrup until smooth.
- Pour the butter mixture over the cereal mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Let Cool and enjoy!
Conclusion
Turn your leftover Halloween candy into tasty treats with these fun baking ideas. You can make Crunchy Candy Bar Brownies or Sweet and Salty Candy Corn Cookies. There’s a recipe for everyone to enjoy. Don’t let your candy go to waste; make some Pretzel Turtles or enjoy drinks with caramel. You can also add candy to homemade ice cream or milkshakes for a sweet surprise. Try the spooky Halloween Chex Mix for a fun snack. Get excited to bake and share these sweet goodies with your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of Halloween candy for baking?
Most Halloween candy can be used in baking. However, it’s best to pick those candies that stay firm when heated. If you are using candy with fillings, make sure those fillings can also handle the heat. If you’re not sure, check a baking guide or recipe.