Halloween is now behind us. But what happens when you have a lot of leftover candy lying around?
Instead of giving into the temptation and eating it all, here are a few ideas on how to repurpose those treats.
You can donate candy to several organizations that will accept unopened candy. Families can donate their candy surplus to military members, first responders, and even sick children who were unable to trick-or-treat themselves. Here is a list of organizations you can choose from:
- Treats for Troops
- Halloween Candy Buyback
- Operation Shoebox
- Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC)
- Feeding AMerica and FoodPantries.org
You can also donate candy to local organizations, like schools, churches, homeless shelters, police and fire stations. Those interested in donating candy should call ahead to confirm.
If you intend to keep your candy, another thing you can do with leftover Halloween candy is turn it into desserts.
For example, you can create a unique twist in classic chocolate chip cookies by adding chopped-up candy bars, M&Ms, or anything else from trick-or-treat night. You could also do this with Rice Krispies Treats, adding fun Halloween flavors.
One recipe uses leftover Halloween candy on popcorn for a delicious sweet and salty snack.
Leftover Halloween candy can be put in the freezer and saved for a later date. Store the candy in an air-tight container, such as a plastic food container or a plastic bag with a zip seal. Don't forget to label it with the date and type of candy, as recommended by The Spruce Eats, a food and recipe website.
Chocolate candy bars can generally last in the freezer for 10 months to a year, as well as hard candies. Other treats, like peanut butter cups, caramels, jelly beans, and candy corn can last about 6 to 9 months, the website says.
Source: FOX 4 News