The spooky season may be over, but the sweet treats don’t have to stop there! If you’re like many of us, you likely found yourself with a stash of leftover Halloween candy after trick-or-treating or attending costume parties. But before you toss it all in the trash, consider giving these creative recipes a try. From classic treats like chocolate chip cookies and brownies to fun twists on popcorn and trail mix, we’ve got 18 delicious ideas to help you use up your leftover Halloween candy. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack to satisfy your cravings or a unique dessert to serve at your next gathering, we’ve got you covered. So grab that leftover candy and get cooking!
Halloween Candy Bark
Get ready to cast a spell with this easy-to-make Halloween Candy Bark recipe! This sweet treat combines melted chocolate, crunchy candy pieces, and a hint of spooky fun.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup assorted Halloween candies (e.g., Reese’s Pieces, M&M’s, candy corn)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the white chocolate chips until melted and combined.
4. Pour the chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle the Halloween candies evenly over the top of the chocolate.
6. If desired, add a few drops of shortening to help set the candy.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
8. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on melting time)
Candy-Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
Take your cookie game to the next level with these indulgent Candy-Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies. Crunchy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and filled with a surprise candy center – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Candy pieces of your choice (e.g. M&M’s, chopped peanut butter cups)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and candy pieces.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Leftover Candy Blondies
Transform your leftover candies into a scrumptious blondie treat. This recipe is perfect for using up mixed candies, nuts, and dried fruits to create a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover candies (e.g., M&M’s, chopped peanut butter cups, or sprinkles)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried fruit
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until combined.
4. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Fold in leftover candies and optional nuts or dried fruit.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Peanut Butter Candy Cups
These bite-sized treats combine creamy peanut butter with sweet caramel and crunchy pecans, wrapped in a smooth chocolate coating.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together peanut butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped pecans.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned at edges.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
8. Dip cooled peanut butter balls into melted chocolate, coating completely.
9. Place coated candies on parchment paper or a silicone mat to set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Candy Popcorn
Transform plain popcorn into a decadent treat by coating it with melted chocolate, nuts, and candy pieces. This recipe is perfect for movie nights or as a fun snack for kids.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6 cups popped popcorn
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or pecans
– 1/2 cup crushed candy pieces (such as M&M’s or chopped peanut butter cups)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F.
2. In a large pot, combine corn syrup, water, and butter. Place over medium heat until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel-coated popcorn and stir until well combined.
7. Stir in chopped nuts and crushed candy pieces.
8. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Candy-Infused Brownies
Candy-Infused Brownies: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Treat
These rich and fudgy brownies are infused with the sweet flavors of candy, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup crushed candy (such as M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, or chopped peanut butter cups)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Add butter and eggs one at a time, stirring until smooth after each addition.
5. Fold in flour mixture, then chocolate chips and crushed candy.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Candy Trail Mix
Transform your leftover candy into a delicious and addictive trail mix that’s perfect for snacking on the go! This recipe is a great way to use up those extra sweets and nuts you have lying around.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashews)
– 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/2 cup leftover candy pieces (M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, chopped peanut butter cups)
– 1/4 cup pretzels
– 1/4 cup puffed rice cereal
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts and dried fruit.
2. Add in the leftover candy pieces and stir until well combined.
3. Add the pretzels and puffed rice cereal to the mixture and stir again.
4. Drizzle the honey over the top of the trail mix and stir until everything is coated evenly.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None!
Candy-Stuffed Pancakes
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these indulgent pancakes stuffed with a surprise of gooey candy. Perfect for kids and kids-at-heart, this recipe is sure to bring a smile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil or cooking spray for the pan
– Candy of your choice (e.g., M&M’s, chopped peanut butter cups, or sprinkles)
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan, leaving space between each pancake.
6. Use a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each pancake.
7. Place 2-3 pieces of candy in the indentation.
8. Fold the pancake over the candy, forming a triangle or a square shape.
9. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
10. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-6 minutes per pancake
Chocolate Candy Fondue
Experience the ultimate chocolate indulgence with this rich and creamy fondue recipe, perfect for dipping your favorite treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk and white chocolate chips. Place over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Once melted and smooth, add sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until dissolved.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk until combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and maintain for 5-7 minutes or until desired temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Candy-Topped Ice Cream Sundae
A sweet treat that’s perfect for hot summer days! This recipe combines creamy ice cream, crunchy candy pieces, and fresh whipped cream to create a sundae that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of your favorite ice cream flavor
– 1 cup of mixed candies (such as M&M’s, chopped peanut butter cups, or crushed gummy bears)
– 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Scoop the ice cream into a sundae dish or a tall clear glass.
2. Sprinkle the mixed candies over the top of the ice cream.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until it forms stiff peaks. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until combined.
4. Top the ice cream with the whipped cream.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None – just assemble and serve!
Leftover Candy Milkshake
Transform your leftover candy stash into a creamy and dreamy milkshake that’s perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings. This recipe is a fun way to reuse old candy and create a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover candy (such as M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, or chopped peanut butter cups)
– 1 cup vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the leftover candy, vanilla ice cream, and milk.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Pour into a glass and add ice cubes if desired.
5. Top with whipped cream, if using.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, taking about 2-3 minutes to blend.
Enjoy your delicious Leftover Candy Milkshake!
Candy-Stuffed Cupcakes
Sweet Treats: Candy-Stuffed Cupcakes Recipe
These indulgent cupcakes are filled with a surprise burst of candy goodness, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Candy pieces of your choice (e.g., M&M’s, chopped peanut butter cups, or crushed candy canes)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with adding candy pieces, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Chocolate Candy Cheesecake
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and decadent Chocolate Candy Cheesecake recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup caramel candies, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press crust mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Pour cheesecake batter into crust. Drizzle with melted chocolate and caramel candies.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until center is set.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes
Candy-Infused Rice Krispie Treats
These colorful treats combine the classic Rice Krispie recipe with a handful of your favorite candies, creating a sweet and playful snack perfect for kids’ parties or adult gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 6 cups marshmallows
– 1 cup candy pieces (such as M&M’s, chopped peanut butter cups, or crushed gummies)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add the Rice Krispies cereal, candy pieces, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Press mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Let cool and harden for about 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Leftover Candy Hot Chocolate
Transform leftover candy into a decadent hot chocolate treat that’s perfect for cold winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 1 cup leftover candy pieces (e.g., M&M’s, chopped peanut butter cups, or crushed candy canes)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. Add the leftover candy pieces and stir until they’re fully melted and incorporated into the milk.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
4. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour immediately into mugs and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Candy-Stuffed French Toast
Transform ordinary French toast into a decadent treat by adding a surprise burst of candy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
– Your favorite candy pieces (e.g., M&M’s, chopped peanut butter cups, or crushed candy canes)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. While the French toast is still warm, place a few candy pieces in the center of each slice.
6. Fold the bread over to enclose the candy, pressing gently to seal.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Candy Fudge
Make this rich and creamy fudge a sweet treat for any occasion. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be indulging in gooey chocolate goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
– 12 ounces (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
5. Pour fudge into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Candy-Topped Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and decadent chocolate mousse topped with a colorful array of candies. Perfect for special occasions or impromptu indulgence.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz good-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into small pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
• 2 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
• Assorted candies (e.g., M&M’s, chopped peanut butter cups, crushed candy canes), for topping
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate, stirring occasionally.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold the egg whites into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Stir the vanilla extract and melted chocolate into the cream mixture.
5. Pour the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and top with assorted candies.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled dessert.
Summary
Get creative with your leftover Halloween candy by transforming it into delicious treats! From sweet and indulgent to fun and playful, these 18 recipes will inspire you to repurpose your trick-or-treat haul. Turn Reese’s Pieces into chocolate chip cookies or use M&M’s to make a colorful trail mix. You can even create a candy-infused cheesecake or fudge. Whatever your sweet tooth desires, there’s a recipe here to satisfy it. Get baking and enjoy the spooky season!
