As the air turns brisk and leaves begin their vibrant transformation, the much-anticipated arrival of Halloween heralds the season of spooky costumes, eerie decorations, and, of course, a wealth of delectable treats. Among the countless candies that adorn the shelves during this bewitching time, there exists a select group that consistently reigns supreme, captivating the hearts and taste buds of both the young and the young at heart. From timeless classics to modern marvels, these five beloved popular Halloween candies continue to enchant and delight candy enthusiasts across the globe, making their mark as the ultimate confectionery favorites of the season.
Halloween, the spookiest time of the year, isn’t just about costumes and haunted houses. It’s also a celebration of candy and lots of it! From chocolate bars to gummy delights, Halloween candy comes in all shapes, sizes, and flavors.
Let’s take a look a the 5 arguably most popular Halloween candies that have delighted trick-or-treaters for generations.
1. Candy Corn
What’s Halloween without candy corn? This iconic tri-colored candy, with its sugary sweetness and distinctive shape, is a Halloween staple. Love it or hate it, candy corn has a fascinating history dating back to the 1880s when it was first created by George Renninger, an employee of the Wunderlee Candy Company. The original name for candy corn was “Chicken Feed,” and it was marketed as a treat for farmers to feed their chickens.
Over the years, candy corn has evolved into the classic Halloween candy we know today. It’s made from a simple mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and wax, shaped into small, kernel-like pieces. The tri-color design, with a yellow base, orange center, and white tip, mimics the appearance of actual corn kernels. While some people can’t resist the sugary allure of candy corn, others are less enthusiastic about its flavor. Nonetheless, it remains a symbol of Halloween and a must-have in every trick-or-treater’s bucket.
2. Chocolate Bars
Halloween wouldn’t be complete without a wide array of chocolate bars. From the classic Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar to Snickers, Kit Kat, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chocolate candies are a crowd-pleaser. These popular Halloween candies offer a delicious blend of creamy milk chocolate, crunchy wafers, nutty goodness, and irresistible peanut butter.
The origins of chocolate bars as Halloween candy can be traced back to their popularity as year-round favorites. Their small, fun-size versions make them perfect for sharing during the Halloween season. The thrill of discovering a miniature chocolate bar in your trick-or-treat bag is enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
3. Gummy Candies
Halloween offers a treasure trove of options for those who prefer chewy, fruity, and gummy delights. Gummy worms, bears, and Sour Patch Kids are just a few examples of the vast array of gummy candies available during this spooky season.
Gummy candies appeal to both kids and adults alike. They come in a wide range of flavors, shapes, and sizes, making them a versatile choice for Halloween. The combination of sweet and sour flavors in some gummy candies adds excitement to the taste buds.
These gummy treats are not only great for snacking but can also be used to decorate Halloween-themed desserts and treats. Gummy eyeballs, for instance, can give cupcakes and cookies a creepy, festive touch.
4. M&M’s
M&M’s, with their vibrant candy-coated shells and delectable chocolate centers, have been a popular Halloween candies favorite for generations. These small, colorful candies come in various seasonal packaging, making them a perfect fit for the holiday.
M&M’s have a rich history dating back to 1941 when they were originally created by Forrest Mars Sr. and R. Bruce Murrie. The candy’s name is derived from their initials. Since then, M&M’s have become a global sensation, known for their “melts in your mouth, not in your hand” slogan.
During Halloween, special edition M&M’s can be found in spooky colors like orange and black. Some may even feature seasonal imprints, such as pumpkins or ghosts. These personalized touches make M&M’s a delightful addition to any Halloween candy collection.
5. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups have a cult following all year round, but they truly shine during Halloween. These delectable cups are a perfect harmony between creamy peanut butter and rich milk chocolate, encased in an iconic orange wrapper.
The story behind Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups begins with H.B. Reese, a former dairy employee who started making these treats in his basement in the 1920s. What started as a small-scale operation eventually became the Reese’s we know today, thanks to Hershey’s acquisition of the company in 1963.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are beloved by many for their unique flavor and texture. Their bite-sized, individually wrapped versions, often found in Halloween assortments, are a delightful surprise in any trick-or-treat bag.
Honorable Mention: Smarties
Who doesn’t love to lay down a rack of Smarties and let them dissolve into a fruity-sweet tangy flavor land?
Smarties are known for their vibrant, eye-catching colors. Their cheerful appearance makes them attractive to both children and adults, and they are often used for decorative purposes in various crafts and activities. Having a unique combination of tangy and sweet flavors, Smarties’ fruity taste appeals to a wide range of palates, making them enjoyable for many people.
Conclusion
Halloween is a time for thrills, chills, and, of course, sweets. These five popular Halloween candies have a special place in the hearts of candy enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of candy corn’s nostalgic charm, the classic appeal of chocolate bars, the chewy joy of gummy candies, the colorful delight of M&M’s, or the irresistible taste of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Halloween candy has something for everyone.
As you prepare for this year’s spooky festivities, don’t forget to stock up on these quintessential treats. Whether you’re handing them out to eager trick-or-treaters or indulging in a few yourself, these Halloween candies are sure to make your celebrations even sweeter. So, grab your favorite candies, put on your costume, and get ready for a Halloween filled with sugary delights and ghostly fun!
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