1. Almond Joy Candy Bar
The Almond Joy Candy Bar appeared in 1946, offering a mix of coconut, almond, and milk chocolate. Created by the Peter Paul Candy Manufacturing Company, later bought by Hershey's, it became known for its rich flavor. The blend of creamy coconut with almonds covered in chocolate provided a texture that was both chewy and crunchy. Unlike its counterpart, Mounds, which uses dark chocolate without almonds, Almond Joy delivers a sweet nuttiness that stood out in the post-war candy market.
Its slogan from the 1970s, "Sometimes you feel like a nut," speaks to its enduring appeal.
2. Jolly Ranchers Candy
Jolly Ranchers debuted in 1949, surprising taste buds everywhere. Created by Bill and Dorthy Harmsen, these hard candies delivered intense fruit flavors that lasted longer than most competitors. The Harmsens initially sold ice cream but noticed a growing demand for vibrant candies. They pivoted, making treats that could outlast an ice cream cone while providing the same satisfaction.
Jolly Ranchers quickly gained popularity, allowing candy enthusiasts to enjoy bold flavors like:
- Cherry
- Apple
- Watermelon
The company's shift to candy transformed this treat from a local favorite into a timeless classic. While packaging or flavor options might change, Jolly Ranchers have kept their essence—you can't hurry a taste this good.
3. Bazooka Gum
Since 1947, Bazooka Gum has been the chewy treat delighting kids and adults. Made by the Topps Company of Brooklyn, Bazooka Gum stuck with us due to its distinctive sweet burst and iconic packaging featuring funny comic strips with "Bazooka Joe." These comics were more than wrappers; they were gems of light-hearted humor and playful adventures, turning each gum into a tiny, entertaining experience.
Over the years, Bazooka has adapted while keeping its nostalgic elements:
- Bold red, white, and blue wrappers updated with more color
- Comics replaced with brain teasers, encouraging mental exercise
While inflation has made the once one-cent treat a thing of the past, the gum's spirit remains strong. Bazooka continues to offer a taste of childhood in every piece, reminding us of simpler times when the greatest joy was blowing a bubble as big as a basketball—until it popped all over your face.
4. Junior Mints
Junior Mints, introduced in 1949, brought something refreshingly different to the candy aisle. Picture biting into a smooth orb of bittersweet dark chocolate, revealing a cool, creamy peppermint center. This combination of richness and refreshment quickly made Junior Mints stand out among its sweet competitors.
The creator of Junior Mints, James O. Welch of the eponymous candy company, drew inspiration from his favorite book, Junior Miss, which happened to be a Broadway hit at the time. Welch's clever wordplay not only sparked interest but evoked a sense of whimsy and fun—perfectly matching his new candy creation.
Junior Mints have earned a special place in the hearts of moviegoers over the years. Whether you're sitting in a red velvet seat watching the latest blockbuster or curled up on your couch for a movie night at home, these minty morsels provide that invigorating mint-chocolate harmony that satisfies a sweet tooth without being overwhelming.
5. York Peppermint Pattie
York Peppermint Pattie has been a timeless gem since 1940. Its formula is simple: a layer of rich dark chocolate embracing a cool, refreshing peppermint cream center. It's like biting into a brisk winter breeze wrapped in a cocoa cloak, awakening the senses with its flavor burst.
The York Peppermint Pattie originated in York, Pennsylvania, crafted by the York Cone Company, long before joining the Hershey's family. What distinguishes this classic is its commitment to authenticity and quality. Each bite brings a satisfying "snap," followed by a minty sensation that lingers.
The candy was so beloved that in the mid-1970s, it earned the celebrated slogan, "Get the sensation!"—capturing its unique appeal. The iconic patties became popular not just for their taste but also for their versatility. Whether as a refreshing afternoon treat, a post-dinner indulgence, or a secret stash in the desk drawer, York Peppermint Patties have always provided a reliable minty escape.
Their appeal extends beyond the flavor, capturing the essence of an era when candy-making was an art blended with innovation. The York Peppermint Pattie remains a testament to how a simple yet bold concept can transcend decades, offering a delightful hint of nostalgia with every bite.
6. Saf-T-Pops Lollipops
Saf-T-Pops Lollipops, introduced in 1940, feature a unique loop handle, making them a worry-free indulgence for parents and a delightful treat for children. Created by Carl Spohr and Robert Bracke, these lollipops were groundbreaking. They emerged at a time when parents were increasingly cautious about their children's safety, but still wanted them to enjoy candy's sweet pleasures.
Key features of Saf-T-Pops:
- Loop handle for easy gripping by small hands
- Reduced choking hazard compared to traditional lollipop sticks
- Variety of vibrant flavors and colors
The Curtiss Candy Company, which acquired Saf-T-Pops in the early 1940s, helped popularize them nationwide, cementing their reputation as the go-to treat for families seeking a safe yet scrumptious option.
Saf-T-Pops became beloved staples in:
- Birthday parties
- Halloween loot bags
- After-school snacks
These lollipops stand as a testament to how thoughtful design and a little ingenuity can create a product that not only endures but manages to sweeten childhood memories through the ages.
7. M&M's Chocolate Candy
M&M's Chocolate Candy, introduced in 1941, quickly became a beloved symbol of innovation in confections. These tiny, colorful morsels were born from an idea by Forrest Mars, who drew inspiration from hard-shelled sweets he observed British soldiers eating during the Spanish Civil War. Aiming to create a treat that would resist heat and transport, Forrest partnered with Bruce Murrie to bring these candies to the American market.
World War II was in full swing, and M&M's quickly became a staple in military rations, appreciated by soldiers for their convenient, non-melting appeal. Their durability was paired with a core of rich milk chocolate that provided a sweet escape—moments of comfort amid wartime hardships.
As these candies returned to civilian life, they captured hearts with their simple yet engaging promise: "Melts in your mouth, not in your hand." The vibrant palette of colors made every handful a feast for the eyes and taste buds alike, turning M&M's into a favorite for party bowls, movie theaters, and casual snacking.
Over the decades, they expanded, embracing new flavors and fillings, including:
- Peanut
- Pretzel
- Crispy
- Caramel
Each variation rekindled the love affair between this classic candy and its devoted fans. Despite their modern iterations, M&M's always maintain their essential character—a nod to their storied past and a hint at future possibilities.
Today, M&M's are more than just delicious candies; they are icons of joy and color, emblematic of an era when a simple sweet treat could brighten even the darkest day.
In candy history, certain treats have a way of staying with us through time, much like cherished memories. Whether it's the snap of a York Peppermint Pattie or the colorful crunch of M&M's, these confections remind us that sometimes, simple pleasures are the sweetest. As we enjoy each bite, we're reminded that these classic candies continue to bring joy and nostalgia to generations old and new.
- Ferrara Candy Company. The History of Candy in America. Chicago, IL: Ferrara Candy Co; 2020.
- Mars Wrigley Confectionery. M&M's: A Sweet History. McLean, VA: Mars, Inc; 2021.
- Hershey Company. The Story of York Peppermint Pattie. Hershey, PA: Hershey Co; 2019.
- Spangler Candy Company. Dum Dums and Saf-T-Pops: A Century of Lollipops. Bryan, OH: Spangler Candy Co; 2018.