116 3rd St SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
Fun, delicious sweets for ghosts and goblins
Angie Holmes
Oct. 5, 2009 4:32 pm
Whether you're planning a grown-up Halloween bash or a party with little ghosts and goblins, be sure to make the treat table fun and festive.
Culinary professional Nina Swan-Kohler of Robins has developed a variety of Halloween treats that can be decorated as simply or elaborately as you choose.
“You don't need to be particularly artistic, just have a good sense of humor and use your imagination,” Swan-Kohler says.
Letter cookies are popular with adults and youngsters.
The cutout cookies can spell everything from “Boo” to the names of party guests.
A dash of spices gives the traditional cookie an unexpected kick.
“Pumpkin pie spice adds just the right flavor,” she says.
“This blend of spices is normally used to flavor pies, but during jack-lantern season, it's perfect for cookies and quick breads, too.”
Candy Corn Brownie Pizza is a colorful dessert that is simple to make. Save on time by using a packaged brownie mix.
“When you can buy a brownie mix that already tastes so good, there is no need to bother with making brownies from scratch,” Swan-Kohler says.
The candy corn makes a colorful topping that the kids can easily tackle.
Spider Web Molten Chocolate Pie is indulgent with fudge filling.
“It almost looks underbaked” because it is so ooey and gooey, says Swan-Kohler.
Create the spider web design on the top of the pie by dragging a wooden toothpick through the lines of white chocolate. Make the web as unique as a real one.
Swan-Kohler, who teaches cooking classes in her home, admits these treats are all high in calories, rich and indulgent.
But Halloween is a time to enjoy yourself, she says.
“Putting an extra tablespoon of fun in anything is OK,” she says.
Nina Swan-Kohler, Culinary Professional