13 Healthier Halloween Treat Alternatives

Trick or treat, healthy and sweet? I know, I know, it seems contradictory to use the word “healthy” anywhere near the one holiday that probably celebrates candy and sugar more than any other day of the year. But for kids with food allergies, having to miss out on traditional Halloween festivities is simply no fun. So for anyone with food intolerances and sensitivities, or those following specific lifestyle diets (such as Paleo or vegan), getting to enjoy Halloween treats often means having to find healthier Halloween alternatives to conventional candy.

There are also environmental and ethical reasons why consumers are looking for Halloween treat alternatives, such as avoiding the use of unsustainably-sourced palm oil found in some conventional candies (if not harvested sustainably, palm oil production causes deforestation and threatens the orangutan population) and supporting fair-trade labor instead of the child and slave labor associated with conventional cocoa (chocolate) harvesting.

So I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite healthier Halloween treat alternatives. All of the following treats are gluten-free, grain-free, and soy-free, plus most are free of refined sugar, GMOs, and artificial colors. Divided into two parts, section one focuses on commercial candy and other options for trick-or-treaters, while section two features wholesome, real-food make-at-home recipes.

Happy Halloween!

Healthier Halloween Commercial Candy and Other Options for Trick-or-Treaters

1. Dark Chocolate Minis from Equal Exchange

These little chocolate gems are a great alternative to the conventional store-bought Halloween chocolate candies. They’re dairy-free, soy-free, nut-free, organic, and fair-trade, and they’re both Paleo and vegan.

2. Organic Pops from YumEarth Organics

These lollipops are free of artificial dyes and made from organic real fruit extracts. They are also vegan and free of soy, gluten, nuts, and dairy, plus they provide 100% daily serving of vitamin C.

3. Dark Chocolate Coconut Butter Cups from Eating Evolved

These treats pack a punch of salty goodness mixed with a hint of sweet. They are Paleo, vegan, dairy-free, soy-free, organic, fair-trade, and are free of refined sugar, as they are sweetened with organic maple sugar. They will definitely be a hit for those that prefer their candy a little less sweet.

4. Halloween Treat Bags for Children with Allergies (Teal Pumpkin Project / non-food ideas) from Bren Did

The Teal Pumpkin Project is fast becoming a popular way to provide alternative treats for the increasing number of children with food allergies or disabilities that prevent them from being able to tolerate candy. These treat bags are filled with fun, non-food trinkets that will make every child smile.

Healthier Halloween Homemade Treats for Parties

5. Tangerine Pumpkins from Bren Did

So cute, and a fun way to incorporate fruit and veggies on Halloween.

6. Mounds Candy Bars from Elana’s Pantry

This version of Mounds bars is not only mouth-watering, but also Paleo (or vegan, depending on which sweetener you choose to use).

7. Apple Mummies from Two Healthy Kitchens

Another way of transforming fruit into a fun, Halloween treat.

8. Raw Paleo Snickers Bars from Young and Raw

These homemade “Snickers” bars are Paleo, vegan, and raw.

9. Homemade Gummy Worms from Oh Lardy

This recipe uses wholesome and nutritious grass-fed gelatin to create these creepy, crawly treats.

10. Vegan Candy Corn from Chocolate Covered Katie

This vegan treat creatively uses nut butter to recreate probably the most iconic of all Halloween candies.

11. Apple Sunbutter Teeth Bites from Fork and Beans

Another fruit-inspired treat, and using Sunbutter makes them nut-free.

12. Paleo Pumpkin Cake Pops from Elana’s Pantry

These cake pops use grain-free pumpkin bread in the place of cake, providing a fun and healthy treat for any Halloween party. (If you’re looking for a nut-free pumpkin bread to use inside these cake pops, check out my recipe here.)