Chocolate has delighted people for over 3,000 years. However, Milton Hershey revolutionized the candy world in America in the 1900s by creating the most iconic candy bar. This sparked a wave of creativity among candy makers. It led to the delicious variety of candies we enjoy today.
Snickers
The Snickers candy bar is an American favorite. It has been delighting taste buds since its launch in 1930. This candy bar is made with a combination of fluffy nougat, creamy caramel, crunchy peanuts, and a rich milk chocolate coating. Created by Frank Mars of Mars Incorporated, this candy bar took three years to perfect. Snickers remain popular, with varieties like Snickers White and Snickers Peanut Brownie.
M&M’s
M&M’s, the iconic candy-coated chocolates from Mars, Inc., have been a hit since they were introduced in 1941. They are in flavors like milk chocolate, peanut, and peanut butter. These colorful treats have become a staple in American candy culture. M&M’s small, portable size and delicious taste make them a favorite for snaking, baking, and even decorating desserts.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Though not technically a chocolate bar, Resse’s Peanut Butter Cups have earned legendary status with their perfect blend of chocolate and peanut butter. Launched in 1928 by H.B. Reese, these cups were originally sold as “Penny Cups.” Using Hershey’s chocolate, Resse created a treat that has become an American staple. It is now available in numerous variations. You can get it in classic cups or oversized one-pound versions.
Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar
Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar has been a beloved classic in America since its creation in 1900 by The Hershey Company. The chocolate bar is made with simple milk chocolate, making this bar a favorite for over a century. Its consistent quality and nostalgic value have made it a go-to treat for generations.
Kit Kat
Kit Kat is known for its crisp wafers covered in milk chocolate. This candy bar was introduced in 1935 and went from England to America in 1940. Kit Kat quickly gained a fanbase because of its taste. Over the years, Kit Kat has expanded its range to include varieties like Kit Kat Crunchy and Kit Kat Duos. It has maintained its popularity with inventive new flavors and textures that keep fans coming back.
Twix
Twix offers the perfect combination of crunchy biscuit, smooth caramel, and rich milk chocolate. This candy bar has delighted American candy lovers since its launch in 1979. With two bars per package, Twix is perfect for sharing, though many prefer to savor both themselves. Twix has expanded its line to include flavors like salted caramel, cookies, and creme. It ensures there’s a Twix for every taste.
Skittles
Skittles, small-fruit flavored candies from Mars, Inc., have been a popular treat in the United States since 1979. With flavors like strawberry, orange, lemon, and lime, Skittles offers a colorful and fun experience. The bite-size pieces make them a favorite for snacking and sharing. It has helped in maintaining the popularity of these candy bars over the years.
5th Avenue
The 5th Avenue candy bar is filled with crunchy peanut butter and coated in milk chocolate. It has been fulfilling cravings since 1936. Created by William H. Luden, this candy bar combines sophisticated flavors and textures. Named after New York’s famous 5th Avenue, it evokes a sense of luxury and indulgence.
Starburst
Starburst, a chewy candy introduced by Mars, Inc., in 1960 came in a variety of fruity flavors like orange, strawberry, cherry, and lemon. These vibrant candies are a popular choice for those who enjoy a burst of fruity sweetness. The chewy textures and bright flavors of these candy bars make them a fun and delightful treat for all ages.
100 Grand Bar
The 100 Grand Bar features a crispy puffed rice center, silky caramel, and a coating of milk chocolate. It has been a favorite since its launch in 1964. Originally named the “hundred thousand dollar bar,” its catchy name and delicious combination of textures have made it a beloved treat. Its fame extends to popular culture as it was referenced in popular TV shows like The Office and Friends.
Sour Patch Kids
Sour Patch Kids, introduced by Mondelez International in 1985, are known for their unique sour-then-sweet taste. These candy bars are in flavors like lemon, lime, orange, and raspberry. South Patch Kids has become a popular choice for those who enjoy a tangy twist to their sweets. Their playful flavor progression continues to make them a hit among candy lovers.
Baby Ruth
Baby Ruth was originally named Kandy Kake and was reformulated in 1921. It combines peanuts, caramel, and chocolate-flavored nougat. Often thought to be named after baseball legend Babe Ruth, the Curtiss Candy company claims it was named after President Grover Cleveland’s daughter. This classic candy bar, now owned by Nestle, continues to be a beloved American treat.
Butterfinger
Butterfinger is known for its crispy butter flake filling and milk chocolate coating. It has been a favorite since its debut in 1923. It became famous for its “crispety, crunchy, peanut-buttery” texture. Butterfinger gained fame through clever marketing stunts and iconic advertisements like Bart Simson’s “Don’t lay a finger on my Butterfinger.” Its unique texture and taste make it a popular choice.
Dove Chocolate Promises
Dove, known as Galaxy outside the U.S., is famous for its silky-smooth texture and creamy taste. Invented in the 1930s by Leo Stefanos, Dove initially sold ice cream bars in Chicago before expanding in 1985. This range of candy bars quickly became a hit. Dove chocolate bars are now beloved worldwide for their luxurious melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Health Bar
Health Bar was created by the Health family in the late 1920s. It has a flavorful combination of crunchy toffee and milk chocolate. Produced by hand for the first 20 years, this candy bar grew from a small store in Robinson, Illinois, to a multi-million-dollar business. Its rich toffee flavor and chocolate coating have made it a beloved classic.