Got leftover Halloween candy? We've got the cider for that.
Halloween isn't just for kids. Let's be honest, half the fun of Halloween is raiding the candy bowl after the trick-or-treaters are gone. And while the kids are busy sorting their loot, we think the adults deserve a treat of their own.
Forget the wine and cheese. We're pairing hard cider with Halloween candy, and the results might surprise you.
We did a little experimenting at Ponderosa Cider Co. and put together four candy and cider combinations that are Dangerously Delicious. Some make perfect sense. Others sound a little questionable until you try them.
So grab that candy bowl, crack open a cider, and let's get into it.
1. Southern Aspect + Gummy Bears
Dry cider meets fruity little bears.
Who says gummy bears are just for kids?
Southern Aspect is our dry, crisp cider, and pairing it with gummy bears gives you a little bit of everything. The sweetness and fruitiness of the candy play against the dry finish of the cider, creating a balance that keeps you coming back for another sip.
It's a great example of how opposites can work together. The candy brings the sugar, the cider brings the crispness, and neither overwhelms the other.
No gummy bears? Grab some Skittles. Same idea, different fruity adventure.
2. Cherry Yuzu + Plain M&M's
Chocolate, cherry, and a little citrus. Yes, please.
Chocolate and cherries have been hanging out together for centuries, so this one shouldn't be too surprising. But throw a little yuzu into the mix, and things get interesting.
Our Cherry Yuzu cider brings bright cherry flavor and a citrusy kick that cuts through the sweetness of milk chocolate. The M&M's add a creamy, chocolatey contrast without overpowering the cider.
It's almost like a chocolate-covered cherry, but brighter, lighter, and a whole lot more refreshing.
No M&M's? Kit Kats are a great backup. Chocolate and crispy wafers? We're not complaining.
3. Sweet Apple Sage + Twix
Apple, caramel, cookies, and herbs. This one just works.
If you've ever had a caramel apple, you already know where we're going with this.
Sweet Apple Sage brings fresh apple flavor, a little sweetness, and a subtle herbal character. Pair that with the caramel, chocolate, and crunchy cookie in a Twix, and you've got something that feels a little like fall dessert in a glass.
The sage adds an unexpected twist that keeps the pairing from becoming too sweet.
This might be the pairing that surprises you the most.
No Twix? Reese's Peanut Butter Cups bring a salty, nutty richness that makes a fun alternative.
4. The Floor Is Guava + Almond Joy
A little tropical vacation in the middle of Halloween.
We're finishing this flight somewhere unexpected: the tropics.
The Floor Is Guava brings fruity, tropical character to the party, while Almond Joy adds coconut, chocolate, and almonds.
Guava and coconut are natural friends. Add a little chocolate and nutty crunch, and suddenly that Halloween candy bowl is giving off vacation vibes.
It's a fun way to finish the flight, especially after all those traditional fall flavors.
No Almond Joy? Starburst keeps things fruity, sweet, and tropical.
Why Does Candy and Cider Pairing Work?
You don't need to be a cider expert to enjoy a good pairing. In fact, that's kind of the point.
A great pairing usually does one of two things: it brings similar flavors together or it creates a contrast.
Sweet candy can soften the sharpness of a dry cider. Tart fruit flavors can cut through rich chocolate. And sometimes two flavors just happen to taste really good together.
The best part? There aren't any wrong answers. Your favorite pairing might be completely different from ours.
And that's what makes experimenting fun.
Come Try the Halloween Candy Flight at Ponderosa!
We've done the experimenting, now it's your turn.
We're serving up our Halloween Candy & Cider Pairing Flight at Ponderosa Cider Co. in Auburn, California, featuring all four ciders paired with their Halloween candy companions. Halloween week only.
Try them in order, see which combination wins you over, and maybe discover a new favorite cider along the way.
Already have a stash of Halloween candy at home? Pick up some cider and create your own pairing adventure. You might be surprised what works.
Find us at The Alley, 102 Gum Lane, Auburn, CA.
Happy Halloween from all of us at Ponderosa Cider Co.!
Stay spooky. Drink dangerously delicious cider.
