Caramel apples are classic and delicious. (flickr: joyosity)

Sugar and carbohydrates and fats, oh my! Halloween usually means overindulgence in those less desired aspects of food, in the form of candy.

Instead, let's break that tradition and find a positive in the fact that we can no longer pass as young enough to trick-or-treat without seeming weird, and make healthier festive treats. Maybe they will even ease some of the guilt when bundling up in those wholesome costumes later.

The holidays don't have to mean compromising nutrition for taste, and after reading this, it shouldn't seem like such an oxymoron to use healthy and Halloween in the same sentence. Here are a few alternatives to over-processed candy bars:

Caramel apples

This is one of the most popular fall treats for a reason. Buy one bag of the square caramels, unwrap them all, and put in a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons water, and stir on medium-high heat until melted. Turn the heat to low. Stick a popsicle stick in each apple (preferably the green Granny Smith ones) and dip the apples in the caramel, and then in any extras like chopped peanuts or sprinkles. Let cool on parchment paper. To make mini caramel apples, use a melon baller to cut out small circles from an apple and continue with the same process.

Pumpkin seeds

The seeds offer an alternative to the abundance of sugar this time of year, and are a great way to make use of the insides left after carving pumpkins. According to Cooking Light, they are also full of protein, fiber, potassium, and iron. First, it's important to thoroughly wash the seeds to get off all of the pulp. Then drizzle olive oil onto a cookie sheet and spread the seeds onto it. Season them with salt and any spices desired (Lawry's seasoning is favorite) and bake at 350 degrees for around 15 minutes, or until browned.

Rice Krispie treats

It doesn't even make sense to buy the pre-packaged version of these treats, when making them homemade is so easy. The only ingredients you need are the cereal, butter, and marshmallows (for those of you wondering, they have vegan ones at Whole Foods!) Start by melting 3 tablespoons of butter with one package of marshmallows in the microwave, stirring occasionally. To make them super spirited, add orange food coloring to the marshmallow and butter mixture. Then continue on and add 6 cups of rice krispies, mix it all together, and spread in a pan. Halloween sprinkles or candy corn can also be added on top.

Dipped dried fruit

This is a healthy choice for reasons beyond the obvious fact that the main ingredient is dried fruit. Dip it in dark chocolate, which according to studies presented in Science Daily, is a powerful antioxidant and good for your heart (in moderation). Microwave dark chocolate chips or a dark chocolate bar in a bowl until melted, stopping every so often to stir. Dip dried mango, papaya or apricot into the chocolate for an orange and black festive treat. Let cool on parchment paper.

Halloween trail mix

This can really be whatever you want to make of it, but here's to hoping everyone will choose to air on the healthier side. There are various combinations possible, with a solid base including popcorn (or Pirate's Booty), pretzels and the fall colored M&M's. You can also add dried cranberries, peanuts, almonds, raisins, mini marshmallows, or candy corn. This a great bowl of munchies to have out while brewing up some of that "special" apple cider.