A Look at the History of Candy 

Candy has been around for centuries, but there are some varieties that have stood the test of time. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate bars or hard candies, chances are you can find an old favorite on store shelves today. Let’s take a look at some of the oldest candies still being made and sold today. 

What's the oldest candy that's still around?

Rock candy

First appeared in Europe in the 16th century, but it wasn’t until much later that it became popular in the United States. Today, rock candy is often used to decorate cakes and other desserts and is available in many different colors and flavors. One of its most distinctive features is its crunchy texture, which comes from its large sugar crystals. 

Candy Canes

Also believed to have been created in the 1600s. Originally, they were all white and flavorless but began to be produced in different colors and flavors by the early 20th century. Today, candy canes come in many shapes, sizes and flavors including peppermint, cherry and even sour apple.

Another Classic Is The Lollipop

Lollipops have a long history, believed to have first been created in the early 1800s. Originally, they were made of flavored syrup on a stick and eventually evolved into what we know now, with a hard candy shell coating the sugary center. Now, lollipops come in many different shapes and flavors and are a popular treat for both children and adults alike.

What's The Oldest Candy Brand In The United States That's Still Around?

The oldest candy brand in the United States still around today is Necco Wafers. Founded in 1847, this classic candy has been a favorite among sweet tooths since its inception. The unique flavors and shapes of these bite-sized candies have made them a nostalgic treat for generations. Today, you can find the iconic Necco Wafers being sold in stores and online. 

What's The Oldest Candy Bar Ever Made In The USA?

In 1847, a revolutionary shift occurred in the world of confectionery. Joseph Fry embraced alchemy and discovered the first ever chocolate bar - bringing homemade candy to an entirely new level! By blending together melted cacao butter, cocoa powder and sugar into a paste that could be molded, he started what was later deemed as 'Fry's Chocolate Cream Bar'. Learn more about this sweet innovation by reading up on its fascinating history.

What Are Some Other Classic Candies Still Being Made Today?

Other classic candies that are still being made today include Mary Janes, Tootsie Rolls, and Salt Water Taffy. Mary Janes were first introduced at the 1904 World’s Fair and have been a sweet favorite ever since. Tootsie Rolls have been delighting chocolate lovers since 1907, while Salt Water Taffy is a classic seaside treat that dates back to the 1880s. All three of these classic candies are still being made and sold today. 

What is the oldest candy on earth?

Candy has been delighting people for centuries! Its roots can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where it was made with honey and fruit or nuts. Sweeter versions were discovered by the Indians over 1,700 years ago (~250 AD) when they invented sugar candy.

What is the oldest hard candy?

One of the oldest hard candies ever made was created by The Aztecs & Mayan civilizations using barley, honey and spices. This ancient hard candy was known as “piktli”, which means "little pieces" in the Aztec language. The recipe for piktli has since evolved into what is now known as rock candy, which resembles modern-day sweets like lollipops and jawbreakers. They also valued cocoa beans and are believed to be the first to drink chocolate as a beverage. This chocolate drink was consumed by priests and warriors alike. 

What is the oldest type of chewy candy still being made?

Another classic candy is Turkish Delight, which dates back to 16th-century Turkey. This treat is made with sugar, cornstarch, water, and rosewater and flavored with fruit juices or nuts like pistachios or hazelnuts. It has a soft texture with a chewy center and can be dusted with powdered sugar for an extra sweet flavor. 

What's The Oldest Candy Bar Still In Stores?

The oldest known candy bar still on store shelves today is The GooGoo Cluster from 1912 Nashville Tennessee. The original cluster was comprised of marshmallow nougat topped with caramel and roasted peanuts- all covered in milk chocolate! This decadent treat has been enjoyed for over 100 years! Other classic candy bars include Baby Ruth (1920), Butterfinger (1923), Snickers (1930) and 3 Musketeers (1932). All four are still available today! 

Who knew that some of our favorite treats have been around for centuries? We have explored just a few examples of truly timeless treats here; there are so many more out there! Whether you’re looking for something sweet to celebrate a special occasion or just want to indulge your sweet tooth now and then, these candies are sure to satisfy any craving! So don't forget to check out your local store shelves for these classic confections next time your sweet tooth strikes!