Halloween candy brings back such memories. We all can remember scouting for the best neighborhoods with the full-size candy bars. And of course, no one wants to be ‘that house’ that hands out fruit (of any kind), or worse yet, leaves out a sign that says, “no candy.” According to the National Retail Federation, Halloween candy spending should hit a whopping $3.5 Billion this year. Here’s a definitive list of some of the best, and worst, Halloween candy.
1. M&M’s
According to candy.com, M&M’s are the most popular Halloween candy throughout the nation. This is the first time in years that the chocolate gems have overtaken Reece’s for the number-one spot. Do you agree that M&M’s are the king of Halloween candy? We especially love peanut M&M’s.
2. Reece’s Peanut Butter Pumpkins
Okay, it may be controversial to hand out peanut butter treats today with all the peanut allergies out there. But, you can’t deny that a Reece’s just tastes better when it’s in a Halloween shape. A study by candystore.com looked at 17 years of sales data and found that Reece’s is the number two top-purchased candy. Many states still rank Reece’s cups as their number one Halloween candy including New Hampshire, Wyoming, and Kentucky.
3. Sour Patch Kids
A clear departure from chocolatey treats, Sour Patch Kids has risen in the rankings in recent years. The chewy sour candies delight kids and adults alike. Many states like Arkansas, Delaware, and Illinois all rank Sour Patch Kids as their number one Halloween candy. Are you team sweet or sour Halloween candy?
4. Saltwater Taffy
Okay, why is there a spike in saltwater taffy sales around Halloween? More than 200,000 pounds are sold per year in Washington around Halloween. It clearly is not a spooky treat and should only be enjoyed in the summer months by the beach. Plus, the flavors can be just gross and it’s way too sweet. Are we wrong?
5. Candy Corn
Candy corn is not good. Unbelievably, it’s Utah’s favorite Halloween candy. Not only is it too sweet, but the texture is weird. It’s too waxy and crumbly. There isn’t much taste either. If you like candy corn, you should question your taste buds.
6. Good and Plenty
Good and Plenty should be left in the past. Made by Hershey, it has a weird licorice taste that is mostly synthetic. Young people are often grossed out by it. If you’re over 60 years old, you may like it. But to us, it tastes more like cough syrup than candy.
What’s Your Favorite Halloween Candy?
Everyone has their favorites, but there are clear winners and losers when it comes to the best and worst Halloween candy. While some outliers like Hot Tamales and Butterfingers have snuck into the top 10 lists, there is a consensus nationwide that the best Halloween candy is either M&M’s or Reece’s. Do you agree?