Transform Your Leftover Candy into Delicious Shortbread Bars

As the Halloween season comes to a close, many of us are left with a daunting task: what to do with all the leftover candy that our kids (and let's be honest, ourselves) have collected. While it's tempting to simply eat it all, there are more creative and delightful ways to use up this sweet surplus. One of the most appealing solutions is to make Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars, a recipe that not only reduces waste but also creates a scrumptious dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, room temperature (2 sticks)
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 cups chopped leftover Halloween candy (e.g., Snickers, Baby Ruth, M&Ms, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups)
• Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your shortbread bakes evenly and at the right temperature. While the oven is heating up, prepare your baking dish by lining an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper and lightly spraying it with baking spray. This will prevent the shortbread from sticking and make it easier to remove once it's baked.

Prepare the Shortbread

In a large bowl, combine the butter, light brown sugar, and kosher salt. Using an electric mixer, mix these ingredients until they are light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes, depending on the warmth of your butter. The key here is to ensure that the mixture is well combined and has a smooth consistency. Next, gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing after each addition until the flour is completely incorporated. The mixture may form a cohesive dough if the butter is warm, or it may resemble coarse crumbs if the butter is cooler. Either way, it will come together beautifully once pressed into the pan.

Press the Mixture

Press the shortbread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure the mixture is as level as possible to ensure even cooking. If the mixture is crumbly, you can warm it slightly with your hands as you press it into the pan to help it come together.

Bake the Shortbread

Bake the shortbread for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown and set. You'll know it's done when the edges are lightly golden and the center is firm. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for the rest of the dessert.

Add Chocolate and Candy

While the shortbread is baking, chop your leftover Halloween candy into smaller chunks. This will make it easier to distribute the candy evenly over the shortbread once it's baked. Once the shortbread is done, remove it from the oven and pour 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips over the dough. Return the pan to the oven for 1-2 minutes, until the chocolate begins to melt. Remove the pan from the oven and use an offset spatula to spread the chocolate evenly across the shortbread crust. Immediately top the melted chocolate with the chopped candy bars and candy-coated chocolate pieces. This is where the magic happens – the combination of the crumbly shortbread, the rich chocolate, and the colorful candy creates a treat that is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.

Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool for at least half an hour or overnight to let the melted chocolate set. This step is important as it allows the chocolate to act as a glue, holding the candy in place. Once the chocolate is set, slice the bars into 16 pieces and serve.

Candy Selection

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can use any combination of leftover Halloween candies to create a unique dessert each time. Here are some examples of candies that work particularly well:

• Snickers: The combination of caramel, peanuts, and chocolate adds a nice texture and flavor contrast.
• M&Ms: These colorful candies add a fun pop of color and a sweet, chocolatey flavor.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: The peanut butter and chocolate combination is a classic and works beautifully in these bars.
• Almond Joy: For those who love coconut and chocolate, Almond Joy bars can add a delicious tropical twist.

Optional Vanilla

Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the shortbread mixture can enhance the flavor of the shortbread. Vanilla pairs well with the sweetness of the candy and the richness of the chocolate, creating a more complex and appealing flavor profile.

Richness and Serving

These bars are rich and decadent, making them perfect for large gatherings or events like Thanksgiving. An 8x8 pan can stretch far, providing a significant number of servings. This makes the recipe ideal for parties, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a dessert that can feed a crowd.

Purpose

The primary purpose of this recipe is to use up leftover Halloween candy, reducing waste and turning what might otherwise be a problem into a delightful dessert. By incorporating various types of candy, you're not only using up leftovers but also creating a treat that is unique and enjoyable.

Ease of Preparation

One of the standout features of this recipe is its ease of preparation. The instructions are straightforward, and the ingredients are common, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal specialized equipment.

Flexibility

The flexibility of this recipe is one of its greatest strengths. You can customize the bars to your taste by using different types of candy. This makes the recipe fun and engaging, as you can experiment with various combinations to find your favorite.

Texture and Flavor

The combination of textures and flavors in these bars is what makes them so special. The crumbly shortbread base provides a solid foundation, while the melted chocolate adds a rich and creamy element. The chopped candy on top adds a burst of flavor and color, creating a treat that is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.

Final Thoughts on Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars

In conclusion, the Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to use up leftover Halloween candy. It's a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make dessert that can be customized to your taste preferences. Whether you're using Snickers, M&Ms, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, or any other combination of candies, this recipe ensures that you'll end up with a treat that is both visually appealing and satisfyingly delicious. So go ahead, get creative, and turn that pile of leftover candy into something truly special. With this recipe, you'll not only be reducing waste but also creating memories and delicious desserts that will be cherished by everyone who tries them. Happy baking.