As the predecessor to Thanksgiving (one of the ultimate American feasts) on the calendar of festivities, Halloween is arguably as important in the food category. It’s just that the menu is typically a bit different. With All Hallows’ Eve comes excitement, jitters and even some jeepers-creepers. There’s typically too many activities happening, from trunk-or-treats and trick-or-treating to parades and parties, to get anyone to sit down for a full meal.

Which brings us to the main topic of conversation, at least as it pertains to Halloween meal planning: the snacks. Snacks are key to any family event, party or just the small window between school and getting costumes on. Halloween snacks can’t just be any old, make-ahead, quick recipes — they have to be themed. Why? Because it’s Halloween!

To help everyone fuel up for the festivities, TODAY Food put together a list of its most fabulous, frightful and easy between-meal munchies for Halloween, from savory appetizers to creepily good cookies. Because there’s nothing scarier than a kid eating candy on an empty stomach.