I don't know where you're located, but where I am, it feels like we've been stuck in a perpetual cycle of rain, atmospheric rivers, and record-breaking snowfall. So, even though the calendar says it's March, it sure doesn't feel like spring.
But fear not! We have the magical power of candy to bring joy into our lives. Candy has this incredible ability to make us feel young, filling us with pure happiness and giggles. Did you know that the average American consumes about 8 lbs of candy in a year? That's quite a lot, right? And it's no wonder, considering the plethora of new commercial candy options that keep popping up. The Candy Gurus can barely keep up. Just take a peek at Reddit's Candy subreddit to see all the exciting treats people are devouring.
However, amidst all these modern confections, I feel like today's generations, whether it's Gen Z, Y, or even X, are missing out on the experience of enjoying classic sweets. So, this winter, as we brace ourselves for more unpredictable weather, let's introduce our loved ones to some good old-fashioned candies and explore some of the best ones worth trying.
MAPLE TRUFFLES
Maple isn't just reserved for breakfast, my friends. These truffles are the epitome of decadence, made with real maple syrup that gives them a delightful hint of woodiness. The sweetness is beautifully balanced by a coating of creamy chocolate. You'll often find them available in dark, milk, and white chocolate varieties, though white chocolate tends to amp up the overall sweetness. They're perfect for kids who crave an intense sugar rush and adults who appreciate indulgent desserts. Check out See's versions or Stutz Candy's offerings. Trust me, they're yum!
CHOCOLATE-DIPPED MINTS
Ah, the timeless favorite among Americans—chocolate-dipped mints. The luscious chocolate shell envelops a refreshing minty filling, hence the name. These treats have reached peak popularity as the beloved Girl Scout cookies. But let me introduce you to another delightful twist—the double-dipped chocolate mints. These morsels feature a mint filling that's dipped twice in different types of chocolate, resulting in an absolute delight for your taste buds. And don't you worry if mint reminds you of toothpaste. Embrace the refreshing experience!
FUDGE
Picture this: it's chilly outside, and you're cozied up next to your pet by the warm fireplace, enjoying a steaming cup of cocoa. But there's one thing missing—a delectable treat that isn't called "Sour Patch Kid." May I suggest some fudge? It's the perfect companion for your hot cocoa, as its smoothness beautifully complements the creamy goodness of the drink. As the saying goes, "More chocolate is better than no chocolate." Fudge is incredibly versatile too, available in a wide array of flavors. Some of my personal favorites include rocky road, salted caramel, chocolate marshmallow, chocolate walnut, and classic vanilla. Feel free to dip your fudge into your hot drink for an extra delightful experience. Go ahead, do you!
PEANUT BRITTLE
Did you know that peanuts are known to lower cholesterol? It's true! Now, I'm not sure if consuming them in the form of brittle—a delectable way to enjoy peanuts—will have the same effect, but hey, let's not burst that bubble of hope. Peanuts are packed with nutrients and pair perfectly with both sweet and savory dishes. Peanut brittle, in particular, is a sweet explosion of flavor—the incredible crunchiness of the caramelized sugar coating harmonizing flawlessly with the richness of the peanuts. You can enjoy them anytime! They make a fantastic mid-day snack or a quick pick-me-up. Just be careful, though—brittle can be quite addictive. Try not to let your parents, spouses, or kids catch you indulging, or maybe share the love and let them in on the secret. It's your call!
SPICED CANDY DROPS
If you're a fan of chewy treats, then you absolutely must give spiced candy drops a go. These gummies, or should I say jellie-like sweets, are flavored with a hint of spice, adding a little kick to your snacking experience. Some popular flavors include cinnamon, spearmint, clove, anise, and wintergreen. They make for a fantastic Christmas gift. And for all the adults out there, try enjoying these spiced drops with a glass of mulled wine. Go ahead and drop them right into your wine, take a sip, contemplate your choices, and then move on with sheer enjoyment.
PEPPERMINT CANDIES
Nowadays, we see big food giants creating peppermint-flavored drinks—hello, Starbucks and "Frappuccinos"—and the younger generations are quite familiar with them. But it's high time we introduce them to the real deal. Peppermint candies are among the most iconic treats, said to have existed since the 1670s. They are loved by many, and I dare say they should be loved by even more. Found in various shapes, with candy canes being the most popular of all, these sugary-minty delights give you chills during snowy winters, making them an essential Christmas treat. As a bonus suggestion, why not check out these recently reviewed Christmas Nougats? They'll add an extra festive touch to your candy experience.
NONPAREILS
Here's a hidden gem that not many people know about. You might even struggle to pronounce it correctly. Nonpareils are international treats, thin discs made of chocolate and coated with colorful sprinkles. They're super cute. You might hesitate to eat them at first, but once you take a bite, the crunch of the sprinkles and the indulgent chocolate will make you go, "Yeah, okay. I really like this." Trust me, they're a delightful surprise!
So there you have it—a selection of candies that will warm your heart and bring a smile to your face, regardless of the season. Treat yourself and your loved ones to these classics, and let the nostalgic flavors transport you to a place of pure joy and happiness. Enjoy!
