Halloween Candy Science Experiment: Dissolving Pumpkins

Looking for a simple, hands-on science activity that fits perfectly into your October plans? This Halloween candy science experiment is an easy way to introduce early science skills while using pumpkin candy in a fun, meaningful way.

In this activity, students watch how pumpkin-shaped candy dissolves in water. They’ll make a hypothesis, observe what happens, and record their observations—learning to think like scientists while having a blast.

Perfect for preschool, kindergarten, and 1st grade, this experiment is easy to prep, low on materials, and full of learning.

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What Is a Halloween Candy Science Experiment?

A Halloween candy science experiment uses seasonal treats to explore basic science concepts in a kid-friendly way.

In this version, students:

• Make a hypothesis (a thoughtful guess about what might happen)
• Observe how the candy changes over time
• Describe or draw what they see
• Record their results and compare with others

It’s a simple activity that builds skills in observation, prediction, and communication. You can also introduce vocabulary words like dissolve and observe in context.

Materials You’ll Need

For this Halloween candy science experiment, you’ll need:

• Pumpkin-shaped candies (like mellowcreme pumpkins)
• Clear cups or containers
• Water (room temperature or warm)
• Optional: spoons, magnifying glasses, timers
• Observation recording pages (drawing or writing based on student level)

Need ready-to-use recording pages?
Grab them in my Halloween Candy Science Experiment: Dissolving Pumpkins resource on Teachers Pay Teachers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Set Up the Experiment

Fill clear cups with water and place them where kids can watch what happens.

2. Make a Hypothesis

Ask students: “What do you think will happen when the pumpkin candy goes into the water?”

3. Add the Candy

Drop one candy pumpkin into each cup.

4. Observe

Have students look closely right away, after a few minutes, and after 15–30 minutes. Ask:

• What do you see?
• Has anything changed?

Things they might notice:

• Bubbles rising from the candy
• Wax or coating breaking off
• Orange color appearing in the water

5. Record

Give students time to draw or write about what they see. Encourage them to describe the changes and compare them with their hypothesis.

What Kids Learn from This Halloween Candy Science Experiment 

This Halloween candy science experiment teaches early science skills, such as:

• Making and testing a hypothesis
• Careful observation
• Recording results with pictures or words
• Using science vocabulary like dissolve and observe

It also builds curiosity and helps children ask questions like “Why did that happen?” or “What would happen with warm water?”

Tips for Different Age Groups

Preschool & Pre-K

Kindergarten & 1st Grade

Advanced Students

This way, every child can join in—no matter their level.

This Halloween candy science experiment is classroom-tested, easy to prep, and loved by students and teachers alike. Here’s what teachers say:

“Students loved this experiment!! This was a great activity to add to our pumpkin unit.” -TPT Reviewer 1st Grade

“My students loved this activity! They were engaged and excited to see the results of the experiment.” -Kindergarten Teacher

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Get Your Free Low-Prep Science Experiments

Want to bring more hands-on discovery into your classroom? Head to the resource library and download your free copy of 10 Low Prep Science Experiments for Kids. It’s the perfect way to build excitement around science—with no fancy supplies required.

Let your students explore, create, and discover—one simple experiment at a time!

Extend the Learning with More Free Resources

Once your students have tried the 10 low prep science experiments, keep the momentum going with these free printables from my Resource Library:

• Animal Habitat Booklet – Draw animal habitats
• Animals on a Boat – Sink or Float Lesson
• Magnify and Match– An observation activity

Each one supports hands-on discovery and is designed for preschool to early elementary students.