13 Candies That Capture the Sweet Tooth of America

When it comes to satisfying a sweet tooth, every state in the U.S. has its own candy preferences. While some candies enjoy nationwide popularity, others are beloved only in specific regions. This diversity in taste highlights the unique cultural flavors that each state brings to the candy aisle.

From chewy sweets to chocolatey delights, the candy landscape is as varied as the states themselves. Here are 13 candies that capture the sweet tooth of America.

13. Starburst

Assorted starburst candy in colorful wrapping paper
Openverse

Starburst tops the list in 13 states, including Florida and Illinois.

These chewy squares offer a burst of fruity flavor, with options ranging from classic strawberry to Sour and FaveREDs varieties. Starburst’s appeal lies in its versatility and the joy of discovering a favorite flavor in each pack.

12. Sour Patch Kids

Sour patch kids favorite candy
Openverse

Eight states, including Michigan and Virginia, prefer the tangy twist of Sour Patch Kids.

Originally sold as Mars Men, these candies were renamed Sour Patch Kids in the 1980s, capturing imaginations with their sweet and sour duality. The tartness delivered by tartaric and citric acids makes them a unique treat.

11. Reese’s

Reese's Peanut Butter Cups Milk Chocolate
Openverse

Iowa, Utah, Vermont, and Wyoming share a love for Reese’s peanut butter and chocolate combo.

This classic candy marries the creamy texture of peanut butter with rich chocolate coating, creating a flavor profile that has been a favorite for generations.

10. Skittles

Skittles colorful candy and packaging
Openverse

Arkansas, Georgia, Nebraska, and Virginia enjoy the colorful spectrum of Skittles.

With flavors ranging from the original fruit to tropical and sour, Skittles offer a rainbow of tastes that continue to delight candy lovers across the country.

9. Sour Punch Straws

Sour Punch Straws candy in pink plastic packaging
Reddit: Conversation_Dapper

Fans in Arizona, California, Louisiana, and Texas love the tangy delight of Sour Punch Straws.

These straws offer a sour punch that satisfies those looking for a less conventional candy experience, with a chewy texture that complements their bold flavor.

8. Jolly Ranchers

Jolly Rancher candy for hard candy lovers
Openverse

Hard candy lovers in Colorado, Missouri, and Nebraska choose Jolly Ranchers.

With flavors like green apple and watermelon, Jolly Ranchers provide a long-lasting taste experience, making them a staple for those who enjoy a more enduring candy.

7. Swedish Fish

Hand holding a Swedish Fish candy, popular in America but unknown in Sweden
Openverse

Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania enjoy the sweet taste of Swedish Fish.

These chewy candies, originally developed in Sweden, are shaped like fish to honor the country’s fishing industry, offering a unique cultural connection with each bite.

6. Twix

Mars Twix candy bar
Openverse

Alaska, Hawaii, and South Dakota share a penchant for the caramel and cookie crunch of Twix.

With two bars in a standard package, Twix combines a crisp cookie base, caramel, and milk chocolate, making it a versatile choice for those who enjoy sharing or indulging solo.

5. Life Savers

Life Savers Holes
Image via Mashed

Montana and West Virginia find comfort in the classic rings of Life Savers.

These iconic candies offer a variety of flavors and a nostalgic experience, reminding many of simpler times with their timeless taste and convenient packaging.

4. Snickers

Snickers nougat chocolate bar with caramel and peanuts
Openverse

Minnesota and South Dakota can’t resist the nougat, caramel, and peanut blend of Snickers.

Known for its combination of nougat, caramel, peanuts, and milk chocolate, Snickers is a go-to choice for those seeking a hearty candy bar that satiates both hunger and sweet cravings.

3. Salt Water Taffy

Salt water taffy in box packaging
Openverse

Delaware cherishes the chewy delight of Salt Water Taffy.

This coastal favorite brings boardwalk nostalgia to candy lovers, with its soft texture and variety of flavors reminiscent of seaside adventures.

2. Candy Corn

Candy corn candies featuring its famous tri-color design
Openverse

Kansas stands by the seasonal sensation of Candy Corn.

Often associated with fall and Halloween, Candy Corn’s tri-color design and unique flavor make it a divisive yet classic treat that continues to spark debates among candy enthusiasts.

1. Kit Kat

Kit kat bars offer 15% extra.
Photo by Zoshua Colah

New York favors the crispy layers of Kit Kat bars.

With its iconic ‘break me off a piece’ slogan, Kit Kat offers a satisfying crunch and creamy chocolate coating, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a quick, shareable treat.

Read More:

About the Writer

Jenny Milam

The Latest

Peaches for Apollo 11 Menu
10 Foods Apollo 11 Astronauts Ate in Space
Universal's Islands of Adventure amusement park for family
7 Must-Visit Theme Parks in America Ranked
Statues of Olympian Gods from Ancient Greece
10 Misrepresentations of Ancient Greece in Movies
Still from the romantic coming-of-age movie Call Me by Your Name
10 Coming-Of-Age Movies That Perfectly Capture Summer Break
Close-up view of a retro Sony PlayStation One console with controller, ideal for game nostalgia enthusiasts.
8 Reasons Your Physical Video Games Have an Expiration Date