Everyone knows one of the best parts of Halloween is the candy, but there are a few obvious downsides of letting our kids (and ourselves – let’s be honest!) chow down on a bit too much sugar. On that note, I’m excited that Shana Rosenheck from POMP Party offered to share a few quick & easy recipes that will add some healthier alternatives to an upcoming Halloween party – or to any festive snack time or lunch, really. So… resist the urge to set out that umpteenth bowl of candy or cookies, and round out your party table with a batch of these Healthier Halloween Treats instead! ;)

PLUS, be sure to also check out the entire Halloween Party Shana created, which included these treats and more. We’re featuring the full party here today too, and there’s tons of great stuff to share… including a fabulous little crafty activity for the kids. Thanks, Shana!

HEALTHY HALLOWEEN TREAT RECIPES:

By Shana Rosenheck

Witches Brooms:

You’ll Need:

• Mini-Pretzel Sticks
• Cheese Sticks (i.e. string cheese)
• Chives
• Scissors

Directions:

1. Cut each cheese stick in half.
2. Next, carefully push the pretzel stick so it is 1⁄2 inches deep in the uncut side of the cheese stick.
3.To create the bristles cut thin slices that are about 1 inch long.
4 .Carefully tie the chive around the top part of the string cheese and snip off the ends.

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Clementine Pumpkins:

You’ll Need:

• Clementines
• Celery

Directions:

1. Peel the clementine and pull out the center rind.
2. Cut your celery into skinny strips. Poke the celery into the top of the clementine to create the pumpkin stem.
3.These clementine pumpkins are such a delicious alternative to sugary snacks AND they double as cute decor!

Apple Monster Mouth:

You’ll Need:

• Red Apples
• Peanut Butter or Caramel
• Mini-Marshmallows
• Toothpicks

Directions:

1. First, wash the apple and cut it into eight sections. Remove the core and lay flat.
2. If using caramel, place it in a microwave safe bowl and heat on high for 20 to 30 seconds. You just want the caramel to soften. You can also use peanut butter if none of your guests have nut allergies.
3. Smear the caramel or peanut butter over one side of each apple slice. Press the mini marshmallows into the caramel. You may want to place one mini marshmallow behind the row of “teeth” to help stabilize the top lip. Place the toothpick through the top apple slice to keep it from sliding off of the marshmallows until the caramel hardens and sets. You can then remove the toothpick or leave as is.