Uncover the Spooky Origins of 10 Halloween Treats You Never Knew Existed

Halloween is filled with excitement, as children dress as ghosts and goblins in search of sweet treats. But have you ever wondered about the origins of those colorful candies and delightful goodies? Get ready to dive into the fascinating and sometimes eerie backstories of ten Halloween treats. You might be surprised to learn that your favorite candies come with chilling tales that add to their appeal!

1. Candy Corn

Candy corn, originally invented in the 1880s, was first known as “chicken feed” and marketed to farmers. This tri-colored candy symbolizes the harvest season, but its strong ties to Halloween began when it gained popularity in the 1950s. Remarkably, around 35 million pounds of candy corn are sold each year, making it a staple of Halloween festivities. Its unique shape evokes memories of autumn cornfields, tying it directly to the spooky season.

An assortment of candy corn in bright colors.

2. Marshmallow Peeps

Initially associated with Easter, marshmallow Peeps have taken on a spooky life of their own. These sweet treats, typically shaped like chicks or bunnies, have transformed into ghost and pumpkin forms for Halloween. Did you know that each Peep takes about 27 hours to make by hand? Their playful appearance hides a fascinating history of seasonal adaptation, showcasing how tradition can evolve and retain its charm.

A creative treat display of marshmallow Peeps in various Halloween shapes.

3. Snickers

When you bite into a Snickers bar, you might enjoy its satisfying crunch, but its name holds a darker twist. It is named after the Mars family's horse, which sadly passed away. With its caramel, nougat, peanuts, and chocolate, Snickers offers the energy that fuels trick-or-treating adventures. In fact, every year, over 15 billion Snickers bars are consumed worldwide, linking this beloved candy to the simple joys of Halloween.

Indulgent Snickers bars sliced to reveal layers of rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy peanuts

4. Tootsie Rolls

Invented in 1896, Tootsie Rolls have an intriguing and spooky legacy. They were named after Clara “Tootsie” Hirschfield, the founder's daughter, and represented a significant innovation in the candy industry. While children adored their chewy texture, many believed these iconic treats contained mysterious ingredients. Packed in nostalgic wax paper, Tootsie Rolls have stood the test of time, becoming a beloved staple for Halloween celebrations.

An assortment of Tootsie Rolls waiting to be enjoyed during Halloween.

5. Milk Duds

At first glance, Milk Duds may seem like an innocuous chocolate caramel treat, but their name has an interesting origin. Created in the 1920s, the inventor intended to make perfectly round candies but ended up with a collection of irregular shapes. The name “Duds” reflects this playful failure, and the texture often stirs debate among candy lovers during Halloween. Surprisingly, about 20 million Milk Duds are made each year, illustrating their enduring popularity.

A colorful assortment of Milk Duds mixed with vibrant purple and white candy pieces creates an eye-catching

6. M&M’s

M&M's, known for their colorful shells, have a fascinating connection to World War II. Designed to withstand heat, they became favored snacks among soldiers. It wasn't until the 1970s that M&M's truly became associated with Halloween celebrations. Today, around 400 million M&M's are produced daily, showcasing their prominent role in candy bowls across the country during the spooky season.

A vibrant assortment of colorful M&M’s, showcasing their iconic candy shell and variety of hues

7. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

Reese's Peanut Butter Cups mix chocolate and peanut butter into an irresistible combination. Launched in the 1920s by a former Hershey’s employee, they were created to provide sweets for children during tough economic times. With around 1.5 billion sold each Halloween, each bite brings a sense of sweet comfort and nostalgia, reflecting the resilience of communities in challenging moments.

An array of delicious Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

8. Jolly Ranchers

Jolly Ranchers began in the 1940s as hard candy intended for year-round enjoyment but quickly became linked with fall flavors. Originally known as the “Jolly Rancher Company,” the brand sought to offer distinctive flavors that brighten up any season. Today, they bring a burst of flavor to Halloween, with about 280 million Jolly Ranchers sold during this festive time, illustrating how a simple treat can brighten dark days.

A vibrant assortment of chewy Jolly Rancher candies in an array of bright red, green, yellow, and blue hues.

9. Kit Kat

The iconic Kit Kat bar has roots that reflect the struggling economy of 1930s England. Created to be an easy snack for workers, its design encourages sharing with the “break” element. Interestingly, Kit Kat bars hold about 9% of the chocolate market in the United States, making them a common choice during Halloween. Each bite embodies the spirit of resilience and camaraderie wrapped in a sweet appeal.

Delicious chocolate pieces and a Kit Kat bar, creating a playful and tempting scene for chocolate lovers.

10. Twix

Twix isn’t just another candy bar; it carries a history full of playful undertones. Originally marketed as a cookie bar, Twix stands for “twin sticks.” This duality adds an element of fun and mystery to the treat. Each year, over 370 million Twix bars are consumed, cementing Twix’s role as a beloved Halloween favorite that aligns with the playful spirit of the holiday.

Rich and indulgent, showcases a luxurious swirl of chocolate and caramel reminiscent of a classic Twix bar

Unearth the Sweet History

These Halloween treats offer more than just sugar; they link us to significant historical moments and spooky traditions. From the charm of candy corn to the unexpected tales behind M&M's, each treat enriches our Halloween experience.

As you prepare for this year’s festivities, consider the stories behind your favorite candies. Sharing these histories can spark intriguing conversations among friends and family. Get ready for a Halloween that is not only delicious but steeped in fascinating tales that make each bite all the more enjoyable!