Whether you overestimate the number of trick-or-treaters you’ll have or your kids bring home a bumper crop of goodies, chances are you’re going to find yourself with some leftover Halloween candy. Rather than letting it go to waste (or your waist), here are several ideas that will make the most of it.
Pay it Forward
Many organizations collect excess Halloween candy and send it to our troops stationed overseas. See if your dentist’s office participates in the annual Halloween Candy Buyback program. If they do, simply drop it off at their office and receive some fun, tooth-friendly treats in return. If not, search Halloween candy buyback online for a list of other organizations.
Make it Healthier
Lessen the impact of a pure sugar rush by mixing the candy into homemade trail mix. Fill small snack bags with nuts, mini pretzels, plain popcorn and dried fruit, and add mini bags of M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces or chopped snack-size candy bars. It makes a fun, inexpensive snack that’s more nutritious than just eating the candy on its own.
Save it for Later
Place wrapped candy in an airtight bag or container and store it in a cool, dry place. It should stay fresh at least a few months and you can use it during the upcoming holiday season to decorate a gingerbread house, add to cookie dough, or use for stocking stuffers or gift toppers.
Take it to Work
Need we say more? There’s no better way to get rid of any kind of leftovers than sharing them with your coworkers. The candy will disappear in no time when you leave it in the breakroom. However, if your goal is to reduce the temptation to eat it yourself, this might not be your best option.
Use it for Party Favors
If your children have birthdays coming up in the next few months, use the leftover Halloween candy to stuff goodie bags. For even more fun, pack it into a piñata and let the kids work off some energy getting it open.
Turn it Into Holiday Gifts
There are many fun ways to turn candy into unexpectedly delicious gifts. For example, use Skittles or Jolly Ranchers to make bottles of homemade flavored vodka. Or simply fill a cute mug or decorative jar with candy as a small gift for a neighbor or coworker.
Give Your Coffee a Treat
Want an extra-special coffee treat without hitting the Starbucks drive-thru? Leftover candy to the rescue! Try adding any chocolate or caramel candy to hot coffee for a decadent departure from your regular brew (simply let it melt, then stir). Prefer your coffee cold? Chop up fun-size candy bars and add them to the blender with some brewed coffee, milk and ice for a frothy, fun treat.