In the early 1930s, the Ferrara Candy Company created the famous Red Hots cinnamon candies using the cold panned candy method. The inventors probably never imagined that the candies, which have become a Valentine's Day staple, could be used in so many ways. All of these ideas utilize one 6-ounce theater box of the candies. Browse the full gallery for all 11 spiced-up homemade Valentine’s Day treats.

Red Hots melt perfectly into a smooth syrup that can be incorporated into a variety of recipes, including these candy-coated strawberries (pictured above). Boil 1 box of Red Hots with 1 cup of water and 1/2 cup of sugar to 300 degrees F (hard crack stage). Use a candy thermometer to monitor. Carefully dip skewered strawberries into the candy. Let cool completely.

Melt Red Hots into 1 cup of water over medium heat. Pour over popped popcorn, then quickly stir in sprinkles. Let dry on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Add a box of Red Hots to this easy chocolate fondue recipe. Serve with fruit and chunks of Red Hots bread for dipping.

Fill a shaker with 1 cup ice, 2 ounces of Red Hot-infused vodka, and 2 ounces of coconut milk or cream. Set aside. Prepare a glass: For the rim, wet the edge of the glass with a little milk, then swirl it in a plate of crushed Red Hots mixed with sparkling sugar. Drop a tablespoon of Red Hots in the bottom of the glass. Shake the drink mixture vigorously and pour into the prepared glass. Enjoy!

Stir crushed Red Hots into buttercream frosting. Then use more Red Hots as cupcake decoration!

Get more ideas for a Red Hot Valentine’s Day in the full gallery.