14 Candy Brands That Still Use Old School Recipes
Some candy brands have been around for decades, sticking to the recipes that made them favorites in the first place. These classic treats are crafted with the same care and attention to detail that they were originally known for, keeping the nostalgia alive for those who grew up with them. Whether it is the chewy caramel or the vibrant fruity flavors, these old-school candies have stood the test of time. For many, there is something special about enjoying a candy that has not changed in years. These timeless sweets offer a taste of history and a sweet reminder of simpler times. Their popularity has remained strong, proving that good things never really go out of style.
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Abba-Zaba
Abba-Zaba has been around since the 1920s and is one of the few candies that still uses its original recipe. It’s a unique blend of chewy taffy and peanut butter, wrapped in a yellow and black wrapper. The candy has a signature consistency, where the peanut butter is spread generously between two layers of soft taffy.
The combination of sweet and salty flavors has kept this candy in production for over 90 years. Despite the surge of new candy innovations, Abba-Zaba continues to appeal to those who crave the familiar, comforting taste of peanut butter and taffy. You can find Abba-Zaba bars at specialty stores or online retailers.
Necco Wafers
Necco Wafers have been a part of the candy landscape since 1847. These iconic, pastel-colored discs of candy have a crunchy texture and a light, powdery taste. They were originally made as a form of medicinal candy, but over the years, they’ve evolved into a nostalgic treat loved by many.
The candy is still made using the same recipe, offering a unique blend of flavors, including lemon, lime, orange, and licorice. While many candy brands have come and gone, Necco Wafers have endured due to their unique taste and long-standing popularity. They are available in a variety of flavors.
Mary Janes
Mary Janes have been around since 1914, maintaining the same classic recipe of molasses and peanut butter. These chewy candies have a distinctive, rich flavor and texture, with a soft interior and a slightly sticky exterior. Despite the candy industry’s constant innovation, Mary Janes have stayed true to their roots.
The candy is still produced in small batches to maintain the consistency and quality that its loyal customers have come to expect. Mary Janes have a dedicated following of fans who enjoy their old-fashioned taste. These vintage candies are available in most specialty candy shops.
Tootsie Roll
Since 1896, Tootsie Rolls have been a household name, famous for their chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor. This classic candy has a simple yet effective recipe, combining cocoa, sugar, and corn syrup into a smooth consistency.
Despite the introduction of countless new candy varieties, Tootsie Roll continues to thrive due to its nostalgic appeal and timeless taste. The company has expanded to include a variety of flavors and forms, but the original chocolate Tootsie Roll remains unchanged.
Chick-O-Stick
Chick-O-Stick has been around since 1938 and is known for its crunchy, peanut-buttery texture. The candy consists of a mixture of roasted peanuts, honey, and toasted coconut, all coated with a crunchy outer shell. It offers a deliciously sweet and salty combination that has stood the test of time.
Chick-O-Stick bars are made with a recipe that has remained unchanged for over 80 years. The brand has expanded its offerings over the years, but the original flavor continues to be a favorite among candy lovers.
Bit-O-Honey
Bit-O-Honey has been in production since 1924, offering a classic blend of honey-flavored nougat and almonds. The candy is wrapped in a smooth, chewy exterior, with a satisfying crunch from the almond pieces. While many other candies have come and gone, Bit-O-Honey’s timeless recipe has kept it a favorite among candy lovers.
The unique combination of honey and almonds gives it a signature flavor that has not changed over time. Bit-O-Honey bars are still made in small batches to ensure the same quality that customers have loved for decades.
Peeps (Original Marshmallow)
Peeps have been a favorite Easter candy since 1953, and their marshmallow recipe has remained consistent throughout the years. Known for their bright colors and signature sugar coating, Peeps are a nostalgic treat for many.
Despite the availability of new flavors and shapes, the original marshmallow Peeps are still made with the same ingredients that made them a classic. The candy is simple but effective, and its chewy texture paired with the sweetness of sugar has earned it a spot as a go-to Easter treat.
Root Beer Barrels
Root Beer Barrels are an old-school candy that has been a popular treat for decades. These candies are shaped like miniature barrels and have a rich, root beer flavor that’s both sweet and smooth.
The recipe for Root Beer Barrels has remained unchanged for years, offering the same satisfying taste that candy fans have enjoyed since the 1930s. They’re particularly known for their long-lasting flavor, and they are often sold in bulk for those who want to enjoy them over time.
Sugar Daddy
Sugar Daddy, a beloved caramel sucker, has been around since the 1920s. This candy is made with a rich, chewy caramel that sticks to your teeth, offering a nostalgic treat for anyone who loves old-school confections. Its simple yet satisfying taste has kept it a favorite over generations.
Sugar Daddy is made using the same caramel recipe it was originally created with, maintaining a timeless flavor. The candy is sold in individual packages, allowing fans of the treat to enjoy it slowly.
Rocky Road Bars
Rocky Road Bars, first introduced in the 1920s, have remained a classic candy due to their combination of rich chocolate, marshmallows, and crunchy nuts. This candy features a simple yet satisfying recipe that has stayed consistent throughout the years.
The original recipe for Rocky Road has not changed much, relying on high-quality chocolate and marshmallow that forms the base of its signature flavor. Rocky Road Bars are often sold in various sizes, from small snack bars to larger slabs.
Charleston Chew
Charleston Chew, a favorite since 1925, has been known for its chewy, nougat center covered in a thin layer of chocolate. The candy offers a satisfying texture with each bite, and it has maintained its original recipe over the years.
Charleston Chew has a history of being a classic candy that reminds people of the good old days. The candy comes in various flavors, but the original vanilla remains the most popular. This timeless treat is available in various sizes, with a typical price of around $1.50 to $2 per bar.
Jolly Ranchers (Original Flavors)
Jolly Ranchers are another candy that has been around since the 1940s. These hard candies are known for their vibrant colors and bold, fruit-forward flavors like apple, watermelon, and grape.
While the brand has expanded its offerings over the years, the original recipe with its hard, long-lasting texture and fruity taste remains unchanged. These candies offer a simple, yet delicious, option for those who want to savor a classic flavor.
Black Cow
The Black Cow candy, which combines chocolate and chewy caramel, has been a favorite since the 1920s. The candy consists of a soft caramel center covered in a layer of chocolate, offering a nostalgic combination of sweet flavors.
The original recipe remains consistent, with a unique texture that sets it apart from other caramel-covered treats. Black Cow is still produced today and remains a timeless option for candy lovers.
Lemonhead
Lemonhead is a tart, lemon-flavored candy that has been around since the 1960s. This candy is known for its hard candy exterior and sour, tangy flavor, which makes it a refreshing option for those who enjoy citrus-based treats. The original recipe for Lemonhead has been passed down through generations.
The flavor offers a consistent tartness that has become synonymous with the brand. Despite the emergence of new sour candy options, Lemonhead continues to thrive thanks to its classic formula.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.