Halloween nights conjure memories of sweet indulgence and sugar hangover - candied apples, candy corn, candy, candy, candy!! Need a break from all the calories? Here’s a few healthier options for celebrating that don’t take the treat out of the holiday.
After you’ve carved the pumpkin, clean the seeds and roast them. Try Cinnamon and Sugar Roasted Pumpkin Seeds from Simple Comfort Food. Or if you prefer a savory kick, check out Cajun Spiced Roasted Pumpkin Seeds from allrecipes.com.
Celebrating at home with the kids this year? Here’s a few kid-friendly recipes to make the night special and add some wholesomeness to the sugar rush.
Peanut Butter Caramel Popcorn from myrecipes.com reduces the sugar load from traditional caramel popcorn balls and packs a punch of flavor with peanut butter, almonds, and vanilla.
An option for popcorn that doesn't involve pb or nuts - Halloween Bony Fingers from University of Nebraska Lincoln Food. Gather candy corn, popcorn, see through gloves and ribbon and assembling is a simple activity for the kids. Just make sure the gloves are powder free and food safe.
Putting together Apple Monster Bites from crayonsandcravings.com is another way to involve kids in pre-party prep. PB free variations on this recipe are available at Two Healthy Kitchens and HGTV. They’re super cute and healthy to eat when complete!
The easiest of healthy snacks are Tangy Pumpkins from Woman’s Day. Peel oranges or clementines and insert a small celery stick in the top for a stem.
The grown ups will enjoy Crud Ités with Green Slime dip, also from Woman’s Day. Another more hearty dip option is Chicken and Garlic Vampire dip from Cooking Light.
Got extra candy (of course!!)? Use those caramels, mini chocolate bars, M&Ms or Reeses Pieces in Chewy Caramel Mystery Cookies from Martha Stewart. Sadly, not low cal, but worth the treat!
