Revealing Halloween’s iconic treats: The Story Behind Black and Orange Candy

As the Halloween season approaches, the sight of black and orange candies decorating store shelves becomes a familiar sight. But have you ever wondered what these candies are called and why they hold a special place in the spooky festivities? In this article, we embark on a delightful exploration of the black and orange candies that are synonymous with Halloween. From their distinctive flavors to their rich history, join us as we unravel the mystery and delve into the enchanting world of these iconic treats.

Candy Corn

With its distinctive tri-color design of yellow, orange and white, candy corn reigns supreme as the quintessential Halloween treat. This cone-shaped treat has been a Halloween staple for more than a century. Made primarily from sugar, corn syrup and wax, Candy Corn has a sweet and slightly creamy taste. Its black and orange sections add a festive touch to its traditional appearance, making it a must-have for Halloween celebrations.

Black Licorice

Known for its bold and unique flavor, black licorice is often found in Halloween candy assortments. Its deep black hue and distinct flavor, derived from the licorice root, make it an acquired taste. While it may not be everyone’s favorite due to its polarizing flavor, black licorice remains an iconic Halloween candy, adding an element of intrigue and variety to the black and orange color palette.

Other Black and Orange Treats

In addition to candy corn and black licorice, several other black and orange candies have embraced the Halloween spirit. These include gummy candies, jelly beans, taffy, and chocolate confections that are specially made in black and orange shades to match the festive theme. These treats not only provide a burst of flavor, but also add to the visual appeal of Halloween decorations and treat displays.

Other Traditional Halloween Candy

Traditional Halloween candy encompasses a wide range of treats that have become synonymous with the festive season. Here are some examples of popular candies enjoyed during Halloween:

• Chocolate bars:
  Chocolate bars, both miniature and full-size, are a popular Halloween staple. Brands such as Snickers, Milky Way, Kit Kat, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and Hershey’s bars are often given to trick-or-treaters or shared at Halloween parties. The variety of flavors, textures, and fillings make chocolate bars a perennial favorite among candy lovers.
• Gummy candies:
  Gummy candies in a variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors are another Halloween favorite. These chewy treats come in the form of gummy worms, bears, spiders, bats, or even eyeballs, adding a touch of whimsy to the Halloween candy collection. Brands such as Haribo, Trolli, and Black Forest offer an assortment of gummy candies that are enjoyed by children and adults alike.
• Sour candies:
  Sour candies add a tangy twist to Halloween celebrations. Sour Patch Kids, Warheads, Sour Skittles and Sour Punch Straws are examples of candies that offer a sour and tart sensation. Their vibrant colors and intense flavors make them a hit with those looking for a sour kick during the holidays.
• Lollipops and hard candies:
  Lollipops and hard candies are classic Halloween treats that come in a variety of flavors and shapes. Whether it’s the iconic Dum Dums, Jolly Ranchers or Chupa Chups, these long-lasting candies provide a delightful and nostalgic experience. They are often found in trick-or-treat bags or used to decorate Halloween-themed desserts.
• Caramel apples:
  While not technically a candy, caramel apples are a popular treat associated with Halloween. These crunchy apples, coated in sticky caramel and sometimes decorated with chocolate, nuts or sprinkles, offer a delicious blend of flavors and textures. Caramel apples are often enjoyed at holiday gatherings or as homemade treats.

These are just a few examples of the wide range of traditional Halloween candies enjoyed during the season. The variety of flavors, textures and colors adds to the excitement and indulgence of Halloween celebrations, making it a sweet and memorable occasion for all.

The evolution of Halloween candy: From Ancient Traditions to Modern Delights

The origins of the Halloween candy tradition can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. During Samhain, it was believed that spirits and otherworldly beings would roam the earth, and people sought to appease and ward off these entities by offering them treats and candy.

The practice of giving treats to these wandering spirits evolved over time and eventually merged with Christian traditions. During the Middle Ages, on All Souls’ Day (November 2), poor people would go door to door offering prayers for the deceased in exchange for “soul cakes,” which were sweet pastries. This practice, known as “souling,” became popular in Britain and Ireland.

Over the centuries, souling and other traditions associated with Halloween made their way to North America through Irish and Scottish immigrants in the 19th century. In the United States, the Halloween candy tradition gained momentum in the early 20th century.

A significant event that played a role in the popularization of Halloween candy was the introduction of trick-or-treating in the 1920s and 1930s. This custom involved children going from house to house, dressed in costumes, asking for treats. Initially, the treats offered were homemade items such as cookies, fruit, or nuts. But as the tradition grew in popularity, so did the demand for pre-packaged, store-bought candy.

The 1950s saw a shift to commercially produced candy marketed specifically for Halloween. Companies such as Hershey’s, Mars, and Nestlé began producing fun-sized candy bars and other Halloween-themed treats, making it more convenient for households to distribute candy to trick-or-treaters.

Today, the Halloween candy tradition has become an integral part of the holiday. It has evolved into a joyful and anticipated aspect of Halloween celebrations, with a wide variety of candies and treats available to delight children and adults alike.

The tradition of giving out Halloween candy not only adds sweetness to the holiday, but also fosters a sense of community as neighbors come together to share treats and create cherished memories. It continues to be a cherished custom that brings joy and excitement to Halloween celebrations around the world.

Bottom Line

Black and orange candies hold a special place in the hearts of Halloween enthusiasts. From the iconic candy corn to the distinctive taste of black licorice, these treats evoke a sense of nostalgia and excitement during the holiday season. Whether you indulge in the sugary sweetness of candy corn or the bold flavor of black licorice, these black and orange candies add a touch of magic to the Halloween experience. So as the spooky season approaches, embrace the vibrant colors and delicious flavors of these Halloween classics and make black and orange candies an essential part of your festive celebrations.

FAQs

What are the black and orange Halloween candy called?

Peanut Butter KissesPeanut Butter Kisses – most recognizable for their distinctive black and orange wrappings.

Who makes the orange and black Halloween candy?

Melster Candies

(1) Melster Candies 5 oz Bag Peanut Butter Kisses Taffy Candy – Fall/Halloween Candy – Black and Orange Wrappers- Made with Real Peanut Butter- Gluten Free and No Cholesterol. Available at a lower price from other sellers that may not offer free Prime shipping.

What candy is like Mary Janes?

Today, Mary Janes is part of the NECCO brand of candies. Bit-O-Honey was developed in 1924 in Chicago by the Schutter-Johnson Company. While not as colorfully named as the Mary Jane, Bit-O-Honey has a similarly chewy texture that’s flavored with almonds and honey.

Do they still make Mary Jane candy?

Mary Jane candy by the box. Mary Jane candy was originally made by The Charles N. Miller, Co., then Stark Candy Co., but today, they’re made by Necco (New England Confection Company) right here in New England (see Update at the bottom of this post).

Do they still make Peanut Butter Kisses?

Miller Company in 1914, after he created the recipe, he named the candy for his favorite aunt. Until last year, both Mary Janes and Mary Jane Peanut Peanut Butter Kisses were available, but only regular Mary Janes are currently produced, leaving the Melster brand to carry on this Halloween tradition.

What are the worst Halloween candies?

Top 10 worst Halloween candies

1. Circus Peanuts. According to popular opinion, Circus Peanuts are downright vile.
2. Candy Corn. Candy corn is nothing special.
3. Wax Coke Bottles. The novelty of these is great.
4. Necco Wafers.
5. Peanut Butter Kisses.
6. Tootsie Rolls.
7. Smarties.
8. Licorice.

What is in bit of honey?

Corn Syrup, Sugar, Skim Milk, Hydrogenated Coconut Oil, Almonds, Whey (from milk), Honey, Egg Whites, Salt, Modified Soy Protein, Natural Flavor, TBHQ and Citric Acid (to preserve freshness). Packaged in the same facility as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, and milk products.

What candy comes in black and orange wrappers?

Peanut Butter Kisses

The city recently posted a message on Facebook that it was “banning” the candy known as Peanut Butter Kisses – most recognizable for their distinctive black and orange wrappings.

Do they still make Chick O sticks?

Chick O Stick has been around since the 1950s and is still made by the Atkinson Candy Company. This is a candy that is made from peanut butter, granulated sugar and is topped with toasted coconut. This candy is also sold in a sugar-free variety.