Halloween isn’t just for kids—it’s a time for adults to join in on the fun, too! With costumes, spooky decorations, and, of course, tons of candy, there’s plenty to enjoy.
But over the years, a new trend has emerged that adds a delicious twist to this beloved holiday: pairing Halloween candy with cheese. Yes, you read that right!
While you may have seen suggestions for pairing candy with wine or cocktails, the idea of combining sweet treats with different types of cheese is gaining popularity.
Let’s dive into the fun world of candy and cheese pairings inspired by the expertise of Marissa Mullin, known on Instagram as @thatcheeseplate.
A Sweet and Savory Adventure
Pairing cheese with candy might sound unconventional, but it’s all about balancing flavors. The creamy, salty, and sometimes tangy notes of cheese can complement the sweetness of candy, creating delightful contrasts and surprising taste combinations.
Imagine savoring a Butterfinger alongside a slice of sharp cheddar or indulging in candy corn with a creamy brie. Each pairing offers a unique taste experience that will make your Halloween celebration more exciting and grown-up.
Cheese and Candy Pairings to Try This Halloween
Here are some standout candy and cheese pairings for your Halloween festivities. Whether hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night, these combinations will impress!
1. Twix and Blue Cheese
Marissa Mullin suggests that blue cheese pairs beautifully with Twix bars. The salty, rich flavor of blue cheese contrasts nicely with the sweet caramel and chocolate of the Twix. It’s a bold combination that will satisfy both sweet and savory cravings.
2. Candy Corn and Brie
Brie is known for its mild, creamy texture, and Marissa recommends it with candy corn. The buttery flavor of brie complements the sugary sweetness of candy corn, creating a harmonious blend perfect for snacking.
3. Aged Gouda and Caramel Popcorn
For a pairing that celebrates similar flavors, try aged Gouda with caramel popcorn. Aged Gouda has a slightly sweet, caramel-like taste with crunchy, crystalline bits. The flavors mesh wonderfully with caramel popcorn’s sweet, buttery notes, making this a satisfying treat.
4. Manchego and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
With its nutty and slightly tangy flavor, Manchego cheese works excellently with Reese’s peanut butter cups. The cheese’s nuttiness enhances the rich, salty peanut butter flavor, making for a delightful pairing you won’t miss.
5. Triple Crème Brie and KitKats
For those who love a luxurious treat, triple crème brie paired with KitKats is a must-try. The brie’s creaminess adds a velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the KitKat’s crispy wafer and chocolate.
6. Goat Brie and Crunch Bars
Goat cheese has a unique tangy flavor that can elevate your candy experience. Pair goat brie with Crunch Bars for a delightful blend of textures—the creaminess of the cheese complements the crispy crunch of the candy.
7. Sharp Cheddar and Butterfingers
If you’re a fan of Butterfingers, you’ll enjoy them even more when paired with sharp cheddar. The robust flavor of sharp cheddar contrasts with the sweet, crumbly texture of the Butterfinger, creating a memorable snack.
8. Gruyère and Snickers
Gruyère’s nutty and slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with Snickers bars. The richness of the chocolate and caramel in Snickers complements the savory notes of Gruyère, making for a satisfying combination.
9. Chèvre and Twizzlers
Try pairing fresh goat cheese (chèvre) with Twizzlers for a fun twist. The cheese’s creaminess offsets the licorice’s chewy texture and sweetness, creating a delightful snack.
Making It a Complete Experience
Pairing cheese and candy is not just about the food; it’s about creating an enjoyable atmosphere. You can enhance your Halloween experience by setting up a fun candy and cheese tasting for friends or family. Here’s how to do it:
1. Set Up a Tasting Station
Create a designated area for your candy and cheese pairings. Arrange various cheeses and candies on a platter and provide small tasting plates for guests. This setup encourages everyone to sample different combinations and share their favorites.
2. Include Wine or Hard Cider
To elevate your pairing experience, consider adding some wine or hard cider to the mix. Certain wines can enhance the flavors of both cheese and candy, making for a more sophisticated tasting experience.
3. Encourage Experimentation
Let your guests experiment with different combinations. Encourage them to share their thoughts on which pairings they love the most. You might be surprised at the creative combinations they come up with!
A Fun Halloween Tradition
Pairing candy and cheese is a delicious and fun way to celebrate Halloween. It allows adults to indulge in a nostalgic holiday tradition while exploring new flavors and tastes.
Many who tried this pairing last October shared how enjoyable and surprising it was. One enthusiastic commenter noted on Marissa’s Instagram post, “We did this last October, and it was so fun! And delicious!”
This Halloween, why not take a cue from this trend? Gather your friends, pick some candy and cheese, and dive into the delightful sweet-savory pairings.
Conclusion:
Halloween is often viewed through a child’s lens, but there’s no reason adults can’t enjoy their festive treats, too. Pairing Halloween candy with cheese introduces new flavors and provides an opportunity for creativity and fun.
So this year, while picking out your costume and decorations, remember to include a delicious cheese and candy pairing in your plans. You’ll likely discover a new favorite treat that will make this Halloween memorable.
FAQs
1. Can I pair any candy with cheese?
Absolutely! While some pairings work better than others, feel free to experiment with your favorites.
2. What type of cheese is best for beginners?
Start with mild cheeses like brie or Gouda, which pair well with various sweets.
3. Can I prepare these pairings ahead of time?
Yes! You can set up your tasting station in advance. Just keep perishable cheeses refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
4. Is this suitable for kids?
While the concept is geared toward adults, kids can enjoy candy and cheese pairings under supervision. Just be mindful of any allergies.
5. Where can I find inspiration for more pairings?
You can follow cheese experts like Marissa Mullin on social media or check out blogs and cookbooks focused on cheese and food pairings.
This Halloween, embrace the unexpected and make your celebration as sweet and savory as possible!
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