12 Non-Candy Halloween Treat Ideas
Don't let the holidays get in the way of your healthy lifestyle. There are Halloween treats you can make at home that won't hurt your waistline. We spoke with registered dietitian, exercise physiologist, and expert consultant Felicia Stoler about how to keep your diet in check when the trick-or-treating season takes over. "By changing up the foods you eat during the fall holiday season, you can keep your taste buds satisfied while feeding your body vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein," Stoler said.
Baked Apples
"After you've done your apple picking this fall, put your baking skills to good use!" Stoler suggested. "You can core the apple, add some brown sugar, cinnamon, and a teaspoon of butter, vegan butter spread, or a good nutritional choice, Malaysian sustainable palm oil. Bake the apples in the oven until tender and sprinkle with hemp seeds for a little crunch. You will be getting vitamins, minerals, and fiber with this warm, tasty treat!"
Dried Cranberries
Cranberries are not just for Thanksgiving! "This tasty, tart little fruit can be added to salads, oatmeal, cereal, or even a turkey sandwich," Stoler said. "Get some vitamins and fiber [from] this deep red fruit."
Cheddar Cheese and Pretzel Pumpkins
"Take two tablespoons of cheddar cheese and form it into a small ball," Stoler said. "Score it with a knife and place a small bit of a pretzel rod in the top, to resemble the stem of a pumpkin." This is a great way to make a healthy, holiday-inspired snack.
Chestnuts
Chia Pudding
You can make your own chia pudding by combining chia seeds and almond milk and letting it sit overnight. There are also packs you can buy that are premade. "Mama Chia squeeze-packs are a great grab-and-go snack that is great to leave in your car, handbag, backpack, or office," Stoler said. "Chia [seeds are] packed with protein and omega-three fatty acids."
Chocolate Covered Almonds
Making this snack will leave your house smelling like the holidays. "Chocolate-covered or -dusted almonds [are] a terrific way to get the health benefits of chocolate combined with the powerful protein found in this nut," Stoler said.
Halloween Pretzels
One of the best parts of Halloween is the pumpkin-themed Halloween snack packs. "As a savory snacker, I'm a huge fan of pretzels," Stoler said. "You can find brands that make them gluten-free or plain. The pre-portioned packs are a great way to not 'cheat' on rationing your portion from a larger package."
Nutella and Banana Roll-Ups with Walnuts
"Spread Nutella over a whole-grain wrap, layer it with thinly sliced bananas, and sprinkle on chopped walnuts. Roll up and cut into pieces like sushi. The Nutella is made with sustainable Malaysian palm oil, which is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and beta carotene. The wraps are a great source of fiber — as are the walnuts and bananas. This snack packs a punch of nutrients and flavor."
Pomegranates
"Pomegranates are seasonal and if you are really lazy about harvesting the seeds, consider buying them in ready prepared cups or using pomegranate juice in your recipes or cocktails," Stoler said. "Toss the seeds on salads for some tart, crispy flavor. They are filled with antioxidants and vitamins."
Pumpkin Ramekins
Pumpkin Seeds
Making your own pumpkin seeds is easy and affordable. "You can roast pumpkin seeds for a delicious snack, not letting anything go to waste snack," Stoler said. "It is a good source of protein and fiber. You can make them savory or sweet by adding cinnamon or salt and pepper.
Pumpkin Yogurt
A great seasonal snack or breakfast is Greek yogurt flavored with pumpkin. "Just like encouraging fruits and veggies to be consumed when they are in season, these flavors are out for a limited time," Stoler said. "Greek yogurt is a great source of getting protein and nine essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium."