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[title]Growing up means letting go of certain childhood normalcies, like taking naps throughout the day, running around naked in public and riding in grocery carts. But when Halloween rolls around, trick-or-treating doesn’t have to be a distant memory. These Chicago chocolatiers and candy makers offer upgraded goodies.
Cinnamon-Chipotle toffee from Terry’s Toffee
Laced with just the right amount of heat, these chocolate-covered toffee bits are as addictive as Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Go ahead and order a pound; you’ll be glad you did. 1117 W Grand Ave (312-733-2700, terrystoffee.com). $9/4oz.
Spider Web bars from Veruca Chocolates
King-size candy bars don’t hold a candle to these gorgeous creations. Each pack includes three bars: milk chocolate with pop rocks, dark chocolate with sea salt, and white chocolate with cocoa nibs and sea salt. Beware: The kiddos might try to sneak a bite when they see these crazy-cool bars in your stash. 1332 N Halsted St (773-998-2462, verucachocolates.com). $12/3.
Buttered Rum marshmallows from XO Marshmallow
Packed with dark rum, brown sugar and a hint of butter, these booze-infused marshmallows are fit for hot cocoa, lattes and s’mores. Of course, no one’s judging you if you eat them solo. 6977 N Sheridan Rd (872-484-0011, xomarshmallow.com). $7.95/12.
Cold Brew Chocolate Coffee Bites from Wild Ophelia
Stuffed with ooey-gooey coffee-flavored caramel, it’s a good thing these candies come in packs of four. Each square satisfies two very real adult cravings: cocoa and caffeine. Cost Plus World Market locations (wildophelia.com). $2.49/pack.
Apple Cider caramels from Katherine Anne Confections
Consider these buttery nuggets an ode to fall, complete with Seedling Farms’ apple cider, local honey and a hint of caraway. 2745 W Armitage Ave (773-245-1630, katherine-anne.com). Each 75¢.
Red Fire Caramel Skulls from Vosges Haut-Chocolat
Every dark chocolate skull-shaped nibble is infused with ancho and chipotle chili and filled with Ceylon cinnamon caramel, resulting in an awesomely decadent indulgence. 520 N Michigan Ave (312-644-9450) and 951 W Armitage Ave (773-296-9866). vosgeschocolate.com; each $5.