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Best Old-Fashioned Candies for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best nostalgic candies for every sweet tooth

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: February 9th, 2024

🍬Taking a stroll down memory lane is always sweeter with some classic candies in hand. Whether you're looking to revisit your childhood or share these timeless sweets with a new generation, our handpicked list of old-fashioned candies will surely satisfy your cravings.

From gooey taffies to satisfying nougats, each of these candies is a tasty reminder of simpler, sweeter times.

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Overall Best: Salt Water Taffy

Our top pick for the best old-fashioned candy is Salt Water Taffy. This chewy delight has been a seaside staple for generations, bringing smiles to candy lovers of all ages. Despite its name, Salt Water Taffy isn’t salty; instead, it’s a deliciously stretchy and gooey treat that comes in a variety of flavors, from fruity to classic vanilla. Originating from Atlantic City boardwalks in the late 19th century, Salt Water Taffy has since captivated the taste buds of people everywhere. With its endless flavor options, it's a nostalgic treat that never gets old.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$16.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Salt Water Taffy? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is Shriver's Salt Water Taffy soft or hard to chew?

Shriver's Salt Water Taffy is known for being soft and chewy, making it pretty easy on your jaw. According to our research, that's one of its main appeals—it's got that classic texture you'd expect from a traditional salt water taffy. As for the flavors, they have a set assortment of 17 traditional ones in their 1 lb. box. So if you're a fan of [Chocolate](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dchocolate%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [Vanilla](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dvanilla%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [Strawberry](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dstrawberry%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), or [Grape](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dgrape%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), you're likely to find those in there. Just a heads up, though—the mix of flavors can change, and sometimes the less popular or darker ones might stand out more. It can be a fun little adventure in tasting, but something to keep in mind if you have a specific flavor in mind. Overall, if you’re into soft and chewy taffy, Shriver's is worth a try. Plus, it comes with a bit of nostalgia, especially if you're familiar with beach trips to the New Jersey shore.

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How fresh is Shriver's Salt Water Taffy when ordered online?

When you order Shriver's Salt Water Taffy online, you can expect a fresh, nostalgic treat that captures the magic of the seaside. According to our research, Shriver's has been making their taffy fresh since 1898, sticking to the tradition that started it all. They offer 17 classic flavors, like Chocolate, Vanilla, and Strawberry, which are popular for evoking those fun summer memories at the Jersey Shore. In terms of how fresh the taffy is, it's generally reported to be in great condition when it arrives—soft and chewy, just like you hope for. Our data shows that the packaging does a good job of keeping it in prime condition until it gets to you. Now, some folks have mentioned they wish there were more fruity or minty flavors in the mix. While substitutions aren't possible, it seems like most people are pretty happy with the classic assortment. The softness of Shriver's taffy really stands out, especially when compared to other taffies that can be quite waxy or tough. This texture is a good indicator of how fresh it is when it arrives. So, if you're looking to enjoy a piece of Shriver's history or share it with someone special, you can feel confident that their taffy will be fresh and flavorful. It’s a delightful choice if you're after a sweet taste of nostalgia with the added bonus of a great texture.

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What flavors are included in Shriver's Salt Water Taffy?

Shriver's Salt Water Taffy comes with a nice mix of flavors that fans of the sweet stuff really enjoy. From what we found, some of the popular ones include chocolate, vanilla, and mint. But keep in mind, their selection can change, so you might find some surprises in your box every now and then! The manufacturer talks up the variety quite a bit, but they don't always pin down each specific flavor since their assortments can be a bit of a rotating door. This keeps things fresh and exciting whenever you get some. Our research shows that people often rave about the taffy's smooth texture and vibrant flavors. It seems like they hit the sweet spot for offering flavors that are nice and balanced, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends. If you have any dietary restrictions, especially gluten issues, you should double-check with the manufacturer about the ingredients. Recipes can sometimes change even after packaging, so it's always a good idea to stay updated for any specific dietary needs. So, if you're in for a classic candy trip down memory lane with a twist of variety, Shriver's Salt Water Taffy seems like a great option to try. Their blend of tradition with a dash of excitement keeps it a go-to for taffy lovers.

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Runner-up: Charleston Chew

Earning the runner-up spot is the classic Charleston Chew, a candy bar that beautifully combines nougat and chocolate. Originally named after the popular 1920s dance, this treat has been a beloved part of American candy culture since 1925. Available in strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla flavors, each wrapped in rich, chewy nougat, Charleston Chew offers a satisfying bite for those with a sweet tooth. Whether you enjoy it at room temperature or frozen for a crunchy treat, this candy is a century-old favorite that continues to delight.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$31.25 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Candy Corn

Brach's Classic Candy Corn, 4.2 oz bag ( Classic 4.2 Ounce (Pack of 1)

For a budget-friendly option, you can’t go wrong with Candy Corn. This iconic tri-colored candy, originally known as 'Chicken Feed' in the 1880s, has been a Halloween favorite for generations. Its unique flavor and festive appearance make it a standout treat. Loved by some and not so much by others, Candy Corn remains unforgettable and is a quintessential part of the fall season. Whether you enjoy it by the handful or just a piece or two, it’s a piece of candy history you don’t want to miss.

Lowest at Amazon

$6.98 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$1.99 at Instacart

Best for Chewy Delight: Bit-O-Honey

Bit-o-honey, 1 Lb Bag, 1 Pound Standard Packaging

If you’re a fan of chewy candies, Bit-O-Honey is a must-try. This vintage candy has been delighting taste buds since 1924 with its unique blend of honey and almond flavors. The chewy texture paired with its rich flavor makes Bit-O-Honey a long-standing favorite among candy aficionados. Each bite offers a nostalgic journey to the past, perfect for those who like to savor their sweets slowly.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$8.63 at Amazon

Best for Licorice Lovers: Licorice

Wiley Wallaby Licorice 24 Ounce Classic Gourmet Soft & Chewy Australian Black Licorice Candy Twists, 1 Pack 24 Ounce (Pack of 1)

For licorice lovers, nothing beats the classic appeal of Licorice candies. Particularly popular is black licorice, which offers an intense, aromatic flavor that other candies just can't match. Historically used as a medicinal root, licorice has a rich background in various cultures. Available in both red and black varieties, it provides a unique treat for those with a taste for robust flavors. For an even stronger experience, try the double salt black licorice, a true delicacy for hardcore licorice enthusiasts.

Lowest at Amazon

$12.41 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$3.79 at Walgreens.com

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