Halloween is filled with fun–pumpkin carving, costumes, trick-or-treating (or trunk-or-treats!), and, of course, so much (or should I say too much) candy. As moms, we don’t want our little ones devouring every piece until they have a tummy ache or a cavity. You may wonder what to do with all the leftover Halloween candy. Fear not, mamas! I’ve got you covered with some creative ideas to put all that leftover candy to good use.
The Swap Strategy
Consider organizing a candy swap with friends or neighbors. Each child can trade some of their less favorite candies for the ones they love. This way, you’re reducing the sugar overload and fostering a sense of community and sharing.
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Create a Candy Countdown Calendar
Turn the days following Halloween into a countdown to a special event. Each day, allow your kids to pick a piece of Halloween candy from their stash. This way, they get a daily dose of sweetness without overindulging. (I might use this to countdown the return of our Elf on the Shelf!)
Bake Some Sweet Memories
I love baking with my son and am excited to try this out! Turn those candy bars into baked goods. M&M cookies, Kit Kat brownies, or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup cupcakes are just a few ideas to get you started. This way, you’re using up the Halloween candy and creating delicious memories with your little ones.
DIY Trail Mix or Granola Bars
Trail mix is a favorite in our house. Mix up a healthy snack by incorporating small candies into trail mix or granola bars. Nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate candies can create a balanced and yummy treat.
Candy Science Experiments
Mix up a little fun and education with candy-themed experiments. Try dissolving different candies in water to create a candy rainbow or make a mentos and soda geyser.
Send Sweet Care Packages
Spread some sweetness to friends and family who may not have gone trick-or-treating. Package up small assortments of your Halloween candy and send them as a surprise treat.
Donate to a Good Cause
Teach your kids the joy of giving by donating candy to a local shelter, food bank, or deployed troops.
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Save for Special Occasions
Consider rationing the candy and saving it for special occasions, like family movie nights, as rewards for good behavior, or as a sweet treat for school lunches.
Get Crafty
Use leftover Halloween candy to get creative with arts and crafts projects. Create candy jewelry or build a candy house. The possibilities are endless!
Freeze for Future Treats
Some candies, like chocolate bars, can be frozen and enjoyed later. This prolongs the enjoyment and ensures you’re not rushing through the stash.
Moderation is key. Encourage your kids to enjoy their candy in small quantities and balance it with nutritious meals and snacks. I hope these ideas help turn your leftover Halloween candy into memorable experiences with your kids.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of El Paso Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
