I don’t know about you, but when Halloween comes around, my house is filled to the brim with delicious treats. Don’t get me wrong – I love Reese’s pumpkin from time to time, but the sheer amount of sugar in our house during spooky season is overwhelming, both personally and as a parent.
Whether you’re handing out treats on Halloween night, taking snacks to a preschool party, or just want to keep robust alternatives at home this spooky season, we’ve compiled a list of candy substitutes – all with local connections!
Dried cranberries
As the largest producer in the entire country, Wisconsin’s state fruit is cranberries, making them a great option for a fall snack. One of the most renowned cranberry companies, Ocean Spraymakes “craisins” right here in Wisconsin! Pack them individually in petite bags or mix them with nuts to create your own “witches potion blend.”
Wisconsin cheese sticks
Individually packaged cheese sticks are a protein-rich delicacy full of calcium. Just like the kids, you can dress up this snack to fit the holiday spirit! Simply add eyes to a wrapper of string cheese to create little ghosts, or choose orange cheddar to match the pumpkin theme. Search Proudly the Wisconsin Cheese Badge on the packaging to make sure your cheese is as local as possible!
Popcorn
Popcorn is a low-calorie whole grain snack that can also be sourced locally. Pack into Halloween-themed bags or mix with dried fruit and other snacks to create your own “monster snack.” Looking for a Wisconsin brand of popcorn? We recommend Rural Route 1 Popcorn located in southwestern Wisconsin!
Local honey sticks
If you’re looking for a sweeter option without the downsides of refined sugar, look no further than Wisconsin honey. Wisconsin bee farmers, known as beekeepers, are preparing a fun and robust treat in the form of honey sticks! Give the treat a little Halloween flair by adding a “witch’s wand” tag to the treat bucket.
Find local honey in your area via Wisconsin Honey Producers Association!
Dried beef sticks
Dried beef sticks are a piquant, protein-rich snack. They can be easily decorated for the holidays by wrapping them in the form of mummy fingers or vampire pegs as some fun ideas. What’s more, you can support your local meat processor and even enjoy the varieties Jacek Link – a Wisconsin brand originating from the Northwoods region of our state.
Apples
No need to jump up and down, apples are a great option available throughout the state. Even though apple season is quickly coming to an end, take advantage of the last part of the season and visit a nearby orchard for a little bit of fall this Halloween.
Whether you’re craving sweet, salty, piquant, or some combination in between, you can count on Wisconsin Agriculture to meet your needs this Halloween.
