Halloween’s come and gone, and if you are anything like most, we are all left with a mountain of candy. While we are all about treating ourselves on occasion, as athletes it’s important to follow a well-balanced diet. This doesn’t mean that our pre- and post-workout snacks need to be boring or even taste bland.
For athletes, our leftover sweet treats from Halloween can be transformed into protein-packed snacks that satisfy cravings and support your training goals. With a few smart additions, you can turn leftover candy into energy-boosting, muscle-repairing bites perfect for post-workout fuel or a healthy dessert.
Here’s how to give that leftover Halloween candy a nutritious twist with these simple, protein-rich DIY recipes!
1. Protein-Packed Peanut Butter Cups
These peanut butter cups are a healthy twist on the classic favorite, perfect for adding protein to your treat and satisfying that peanut butter craving. They are easy to make and require just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter for a variation)
- 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa for a rich taste and lower sugar content) OR leftover Halloween chocolate
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for a salted peanut butter cup taste)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix peanut butter, protein powder, coconut oil, and honey until you achieve a smooth consistency. Adjust the amount of protein powder to keep it pliable; too much can make it dry.
- Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the peanut butter mixture into each liner.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 20-second increments, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Pour a layer of melted chocolate over each peanut butter cup, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle sea salt on top if desired and place the tray in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens.
- Enjoy these straight from the fridge or freezer for a delightful post-workout treat!
Each cup delivers a balance of healthy fats and protein, providing sustained energy and helping with muscle recovery.
2. Chocolate-Peanut Protein Bites
These no-bake bites combine peanut butter, chocolate candy pieces, oats, and protein powder to deliver a delicious snack with the right mix of protein, carbs, and fats for recovery.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/2 cup vanilla or chocolate protein powder
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped leftover chocolate candy (preferably dark chocolate or peanut M&Ms for added protein and crunch)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds or ground flaxseed (optional, for added fiber and omega-3s)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, protein powder, chia seeds (if using), and salt.
- Add peanut butter and honey, stirring until a thick dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped Halloween candy for a bit of sweetness and crunch.
- Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls (about 1-2 tablespoons each).
- Place in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
These bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week and make a convenient, protein-rich snack for post-workout recovery. The oats provide complex carbs, the peanut butter and protein powder deliver protein and healthy fats, and the candy adds a fun twist without overloading on sugar.
3. Candy-Powered Greek Yogurt Parfait
This parfait is packed with protein from Greek yogurt, antioxidants from fruit, and a small amount of candy for sweetness and crunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup mixed berries
- 1 tablespoon chopped leftover Halloween chocolate (like Snickers or mini peanut butter cups)
Instructions:
1. Mix the protein powder into the yogurt and layer with berries.
2. Sprinkle candy on top and enjoy immediately. This snack is great for a quick recovery meal after a workout.
4. Protein-Packed Candy Apple Slices
Turn a classic candy apple into a protein-rich treat by adding nut butter and candy as toppings!
Ingredients:
- 1 apple, sliced
- 2 tablespoons almond or peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon crushed leftover chocolate candy (like peanut M&Ms or Kit Kats)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flaxseed (optional)
Instructions:
1. Spread nut butter on each apple slice, sprinkle with crushed candy and chia seeds, and enjoy.
The apples provide fiber, the nut butter adds protein and healthy fats, and the candy adds a touch of sweetness.
5. Pumpkin Spice Protein Smoothie with Candy Crunch
This smoothie brings fall flavors and uses a bit of Halloween candy for a delightful crunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 cup crushed leftover chocolate candy (like Reese’s Pieces or mini chocolate bars)
Instructions:
1. Blend all ingredients except the candy until smooth.
2.Pour into a glass and top with crushed candy for a fun and seasonal twist. This smoothie is perfect for a protein-rich breakfast or post-workout snack.
These DIY Halloween candies are an ideal way to enjoy the season’s treats with an athlete-friendly, protein-rich spin. By making your own, you can control the ingredients, keeping sugar levels in check while boosting protein intake. Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost, a recovery snack, or just something to enjoy on Halloween night, these recipes prove that candy can be both delicious and nutritious!