Halloween means spooky decorations, creative costumes, and treats galore! While for most of us, the holiday conjures candy corn, caramel apples, and pumpkin-flavored everything, Halloween treats around the world offer a fascinating glimpse into different cultures’ takes on the season. Let’s take a culinary journey to discover seven Halloween treats from across the globe that are as unique as they are delightful.
Soul Cakes – United Kingdom
Soul cakes are small, round spiced cakes traditionally baked to honor the dead. Historically, they were given to children and the poor who would go “souling” — singing prayers for the departed in exchange for these treats. Often flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins, soul cakes represent a link to Halloween’s ancient roots in Samhain and All Saints’ Day.
Pan de Muerto – Mexico
One of the most essential and recognizable edibles of Día de los Muertos in Mexico, Pan de Muerto is a sweet, soft bread with an anise flavor, often decorated with dough “bones” and skull shapes. Sometimes sprinkled with sugar or scented with orange blossom, it often tops altars, though it is also shared among family members in memory of loved ones who have passed away.
Colcannon – Ireland
Though not a sweet treat, Colcannon is the traditional Irish fare that was served on Halloween. With its ingredients of mashed potatoes, cabbage or kale, and butter, this dish is a comforting one; sometimes charms are hidden in the Colcannon—coins or thimbles—each foretelling the finder’s fortune in the coming year.
Huesos de Santo – Spain
Translated as “Saint’s Bones,” these almond-based pastries are popular in Spain during All Saints’ Day and Halloween. Shaped like bones and filled with sweet egg yolk cream, these delicate confections are both eerie and exquisite.
Candy Apples – United States
A Halloween classic in the United States, candy apples are crisp apples coated in a glossy, hard candy shell. They became iconic in the early 20th century, thanks to their striking appearance and sweet-tart flavor.
Kabocha Pumpkin Pie – Japan
In Japan, Halloween has evolved into a fashion event of sorts, with special seasonal sweets popping up every year. One such creation is Kabocha Pumpkin Pie, which features kabocha squash, naturally sweet and nutty. Unlike in the West, pumpkin pies in Japan are often lighter and less spiced to showcase the flavor of the kabocha.
Pão-por-Deus – Portugal
Like the British tradition of soul cakes, Pão-por-Deus (Bread of God) is a sweet bread shared on All Saints’ Day. Children go door-to-door singing songs and asking for these treats, often receiving them alongside nuts and small candies.
Bringing the World to Your Halloween Table
Exploring these treats is a fun way to add global flavor to your Halloween celebrations. Whether you’re baking soul cakes, crafting candy apples, or enjoying a slice of Pan de Muerto, each treat carries a story that enriches the holiday’s history and meaning.
