Introduction
Candy is more than just a sugary treat in the United States—it’s a cultural icon. From movie theater snacks to Halloween favorites, Americans consume billions of dollars’ worth of candy every year. Whether you love chocolate, gummies, or sour sweets, certain brands dominate nationwide. In this guide, we rank the 20 most popular candies in the US, explore their history, flavors, and why people can’t get enough of them.
Chocolate vs. Non-Chocolate Favorites
Chocolate candies like Reese’s, Snickers, and Hershey’s dominate sales, but fruity and sour candies such as Skittles and Sour Patch Kids have a huge fan base, especially among younger consumers.
Chocolate vs. Non-Chocolate Favorites
Chocolate candies like Reese’s, Snickers, and Hershey’s dominate sales, but fruity and sour candies such as Skittles and Sour Patch Kids have a huge fan base, especially among younger consumers.
Candy and American Holidays
From classic chocolate bars to sour gummies, these 20 most popular candies in the US represent America’s sweet tooth perfectly. Whether you prefer peanut butter and chocolate or fruity chewables, there’s a favorite for everyone. Next time you visit a candy aisle, you’ll know exactly which treats Americans love the most.
With Skittles, Starburst, Swedish Fish, and Sour Patch Kids lining store shelves across the United States, one thing is clear—Americans absolutely love candy. From chocolate bars grabbed at checkout counters to sour gummies shared at the movies, sweet treats are part of everyday life. Whether it’s sweet or tangy, chewy or crunchy, cups or kisses, millions of people enjoy candy every single day.
In this guide, we explore the 20 most popular candies in the US, what makes them special, and why they continue to dominate the American sweet market year after year.
1. Utah – America’s Biggest Candy-Loving State
At number one, Utah ranks as the most candy-loving state in the US. While the state is well known for its unique soda shop culture and creative sweet drinks, its passion for sugar goes far beyond beverages. Candy plays a huge role in local snacking habits, celebrations, and everyday treats.
Utah residents consume more candy per capita than any other state, and their top favorite is Twix. The combination of crunchy cookie, gooey caramel, and smooth milk chocolate makes it the perfect choice for people who enjoy both texture and rich flavor in one bar.
Another reason for Utah’s high candy consumption is its strong family-oriented culture, where sweets are commonly shared during gatherings, holidays, and community events. From movie nights to road trips, candy is a go-to snack across the state.
2. Ohio – A Sweet Spot for Candy Lovers
Ohio is famously known for its three C’s—Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati—but it could easily add a fourth: candy. Ranking as the second biggest candy-consuming state in the US, Ohio has a strong sweet tooth and a long history of confectionery production.
The Buckeye State is especially fond of M&M’s, the colorful candy-coated chocolates that are perfect for sharing, baking, or snacking on the go. Their variety of flavors and convenient size make them a favorite for families, road trips, and movie nights.
Ohio’s love for candy is also tied to its rich chocolate heritage, being home to several historic candy companies and a strong tradition of sweet-making. Seasonal celebrations like Halloween and Christmas further boost candy sales across the state.
3. Iowa – A Colorful Love for Starburst
Iowa ranks as the third biggest candy-consuming state in the US, proving that its residents have a serious sweet tooth. With a population of around 3.2 million people, candy is a popular everyday treat as well as a staple during holidays and community gatherings.
The state’s favorite candy is Starburst, the chewy, fruit-flavored taffy known for its bright colors and juicy taste. From classic strawberry and cherry to tropical mixes, Starburst offers a burst of flavor that keeps Iowans coming back for more.
One of the reasons Starburst is so popular in Iowa is its fun, customizable nature. Many fans enjoy eating each flavor separately, while others love combining multiple pieces to create new and unique taste combinations. Its shareable size also makes it perfect for road trips, school snacks, and movie nights.
4. Pennsylvania – The Home of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Pennsylvania ranks among the top candy-loving states in the US, and it’s no surprise that its residents chose Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups as their all-time favorite. The state has a deep connection to chocolate history, making its love for this iconic treat even more meaningful.
The perfect blend of creamy peanut butter and smooth milk chocolate has made Reese’s a household staple across Pennsylvania. Originally created in Hershey, the candy remains a symbol of the state’s rich confectionery heritage and continues to dominate local sales.
Reese’s popularity in Pennsylvania goes far beyond snacking. The peanut butter cups are now widely used in desserts, including cakes, cookies, brownies, and ice cream toppings. Their versatility and bold flavor make them a favorite ingredient for home bakers and professional pastry chefs alike.
5. Nebraska – A Sour Patch Kids Sweet Spot
Nebraska may have a population of just over two million people, but its love for candy is anything but small. Ranking fifth among the biggest candy-consuming states in the US, Nebraskans clearly enjoy keeping their snack cabinets stocked with sweet treats.
Interestingly, the state leans more toward sour than chocolate, with Sour Patch Kids taking the top spot as Nebraska’s favorite candy. Known for their signature “first sour, then sweet” flavor, these chewy gummies are especially popular among younger candy fans and moviegoers.
The tangy sugar coating followed by a fruity sweetness makes Sour Patch Kids a fun and flavorful choice for sharing at parties, road trips, and family gatherings. Their bright colors and playful shape also add to their widespread appeal.
6. Illinois – A Colorful Craze for M&M’s
Known as the Prairie State for its vast farmlands and natural beauty, Illinois also has a strong appetite for candy. Ranking sixth among the biggest candy-consuming states in the US, it’s clear that sweet treats are a regular part of life for many residents.
The top favorite in Illinois is M&M’s, the iconic candy-coated chocolates loved for their crunchy shell, smooth milk chocolate center, and wide range of flavors. From classic milk chocolate and peanut to newer varieties like caramel and crunchy cookie, M&M’s continue to attract fans of all ages.
Their shareable size and colorful appearance make them perfect for parties, movie nights, and road trips. Seasonal editions and limited-time flavors also keep excitement high among candy lovers across the state.
With its strong demand for chocolate and enthusiasm for new candy varieties, Illinois proudly holds its place as one of America’s most candy-obsessed states.
7. Indiana – Tasting the Rainbow with Skittles
Indiana claims the seventh spot among the biggest candy-consuming states in the US, showing that the Midwest has a serious love for sweets. Candy is a popular snack for road trips, sporting events, and family movie nights across the Hoosier State.
The clear favorite here is Skittles, the brightly colored, fruit-flavored candy known for its famous “Taste the Rainbow” slogan. With bold flavors, chewy texture, and fun variety packs, Skittles are a go-to treat for both kids and adults.
Their shareable size and vibrant colors make them perfect for parties and holiday celebrations, while limited-edition flavors keep fans excited year-round. The mix of sweetness and slight tang gives Skittles a flavor profile that stands out from traditional chocolate candies.
With strong per-capita consumption and a love for fruity sweets, Indiana earns its place as one of America’s top candy-loving states.
8. Missouri – Breaking for Kit Kat
Missouri ranks eighth among the biggest candy-consuming states in the US, and its residents clearly enjoy taking a sweet break. Candy is a popular snack across the state, whether it’s for road trips, movie nights, or holiday celebrations.
The top choice in Missouri is Kit Kat, the classic chocolate-covered wafer bar known for its satisfying crunch and shareable design. The combination of light, crispy wafers and smooth milk chocolate makes it a favorite for people who enjoy both texture and sweetness.
Another reason for Kit Kat’s popularity is its expanding lineup of flavors, from dark chocolate and white chocolate to seasonal and limited-edition varieties. This constant innovation keeps candy lovers excited and coming back for more.
With its strong demand for chocolate treats and a clear preference for Kit Kat, Missouri secures its place as one of America’s most candy-loving states.
9. Minnesota – Sharing Sweet Moments with Twix
Minnesota ranks ninth among the biggest candy-consuming states in the US, proving that Midwesterners have a serious sweet tooth. Candy is a popular snack across homes, schools, and social gatherings throughout the state.
The favorite candy in Minnesota is Twix, the chocolate bar that combines a crunchy cookie, gooey caramel, and smooth milk chocolate. Its shareable design and satisfying texture make it perfect for enjoying with friends and family, which aligns with the state’s friendly, communal culture.
Twix’s popularity is boosted by its versatility—it’s a favorite for snacking straight from the wrapper, as a dessert ingredient, or even split to share with others. The mix of crunchy and chewy layers ensures it remains a classic treat year after year.
With high per-capita candy consumption and a clear love for Twix, Minnesota solidifies its place as one of America’s most candy-loving states.
10. Connecticut – Taking a Break with Kit Kat
Connecticut ranks tenth among the biggest candy-consuming states in the US, showing that residents in the Northeast have a serious love for sweets. Candy is a staple in homes, offices, and holiday celebrations across the state.
The favorite candy in Connecticut is Kit Kat, the iconic chocolate-covered wafer bar that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying as a personal treat. Its crisp layers and smooth chocolate coating make it a go-to snack for people looking for both flavor and texture.
Kit Kat’s popularity in Connecticut is fueled by its variety of flavors, from classic milk chocolate to seasonal and limited-edition editions, ensuring there’s something new for candy lovers to enjoy year-round. Its convenience and shareable design also make it perfect for road trips, parties, and movie nights.
With high per-capita candy consumption and a clear preference for Kit Kat, Connecticut earns its spot as one of America’s top candy-loving states.
11. Milky Way – A Classic Chocolate Treat
One of the oldest and most beloved candies in the US is Milky Way, a chocolate bar first created by Mars in 1923. Its timeless combination of flavors has kept it a favorite for nearly a century.
Interestingly, there are two versions of Milky Way. The brown-wrapped bar sold in the US features a layer of caramel over fluffy nougat, all coated in smooth milk chocolate. Meanwhile, the blue-wrapped version sold internationally contains only nougat under the chocolate coating. Both versions have earned loyal fans, but it’s the caramel-and-nougat combination that keeps Americans coming back for more.
Milky Way’s soft, chewy texture and satisfying chocolate coating make it a perfect snack for on-the-go treats, movie nights, or sharing with friends. Its versatility and rich flavor profile have helped it maintain a top spot among America’s favorite candies for decades.
12. Twix – The Shareable Chocolate Bar
Twix is a candy bar built for sharing—each package contains two chocolate-covered “fingers,” though its irresistible combination of flavors often makes you want both for yourself. Owned by Mars, Twix has been delighting candy lovers since its introduction in 1967.
The bar features a crunchy biscuit base, a layer of gooey caramel, and a smooth chocolate coating, creating a satisfying mix of textures and flavors in every bite. Its versatility makes it popular as a snack on the go, a treat during movies, or even as an ingredient in desserts like brownies and ice cream sundaes.
Twix’s continued popularity is also boosted by limited-edition flavors and seasonal variations, including white chocolate, peanut butter, and dark chocolate versions. Whether eaten individually or shared, Twix remains one of America’s favorite chocolate bars.
13. Twizzlers – Chewy, Fruity, and Fun
Twizzlers are chewy, twisty candies that have been a favorite in the US since their release in 1977. Originally known for their classic licorice flavor, Twizzlers initially divided candy fans—some loved the bold taste, while others were less enthusiastic.
Over time, the Hershey Company expanded the range to include popular fruity flavors like strawberry, cherry, and watermelon, turning Twizzlers into one of America’s most beloved chewy candies. Their fun twisty shape and soft, chewy texture make them perfect for snacking, sharing, or using as a playful addition to desserts.
Twizzlers are also a popular choice at movie theaters, sports events, and Halloween celebrations, proving their versatility and enduring appeal. With fruity flavors that appeal to all ages, Twizzlers continue to be a sweet favorite nationwide.
14. Kit Kat – The Classic Break-Time Treat
Ranking number 14 on the list is Kit Kat, the iconic chocolate-covered wafer bar. Owned by Nestlé globally and produced in the US by the Hershey Company, Kit Kat has been delighting candy lovers since its creation in 1935.
Kit Kat features crispy wafer layers covered in smooth milk chocolate, giving it a perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. Its signature “breakable fingers” make it ideal for sharing—or enjoying one at a time. Over the years, candy enthusiasts have playfully debated the best way to eat a Kit Kat: bite by bite, finger by finger, or snapping off pieces to savor slowly.
The bar’s versatility extends to flavor variations, from classic milk chocolate to white chocolate, dark chocolate, and seasonal limited editions. Its consistent quality, delicious taste, and fun eating experience have made Kit Kat a staple in American candy culture.
15. Butterfinger – The Crunchy Peanut Butter Bar
Butterfinger is a beloved candy bar known for its crispy peanut butter core wrapped in a sweet chocolate-flavored coating. Owned by Ferrero and manufactured internationally by Nestlé, Butterfinger has been a favorite treat for decades.
Each bar features a unique crunchy, flaky peanut butter center, giving it a texture unlike most other candy bars. While it’s coated in chocolate-flavored coating, it technically isn’t classified as a chocolate bar because it contains no cocoa butter. Nevertheless, the combination of crunchy peanut butter and sweet coating has made it a go-to snack for chocolate and nut lovers alike.
Butterfinger is versatile as a snack, an ingredient in desserts, or a fun addition to ice cream sundaes. Its playful texture, bold peanut butter flavor, and nostalgic appeal continue to make it one of America’s most popular candies.
16. Swedish Fish – The Fruity, Chewy Classic
Swedish Fish are chewy, fruit-flavored candies that have been a favorite in the US since their launch in 1957. Originally developed by the Swedish company Malaco, they were specifically created for the American market, and their popularity has only grown over the decades.
These iconic fish-shaped candies come in a variety of colors and fruity flavors, with the classic red berry flavor remaining the most beloved. Their soft, chewy texture and long-lasting flavor make them perfect for snacking, sharing, or adding to candy mixes for parties and movie nights.
Swedish Fish are not only fun to eat but also versatile—they can be used in desserts, as toppings, or even in creative recipes. Each candy lover tends to have a favorite flavor, which adds to the playful charm and enduring appeal of this treat.
17. Laffy Taffy – Chewy, Fruity Fun with a Joke
Laffy Taffy, owned by Ferrero, has been delighting candy lovers since its creation in 1952. This chewy taffy candy comes in small, rectangular pieces, each individually wrapped for convenience and freshness.
Laffy Taffy is known for its bright colors and fruity flavors, including strawberry, banana, sour apple, and grape, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike. What sets it apart is the playful twist on every wrapper: each piece includes a joke or riddle, adding a fun, interactive element to snacking.
These soft, chewy candies are perfect for sharing, on-the-go snacking, or adding to candy mixes for parties and celebrations. Their combination of flavor, texture, and playful packaging ensures that Laffy Taffy remains one of America’s most beloved candies.
18. Jolly Ranchers – Bold and Colorful Candy Favorites
Jolly Ranchers are colorful, individually wrapped candies that have been a staple of American candy culture since their launch in 1949. Today, they are owned by the Hershey Company and continue to delight candy lovers with their bold flavors and long-lasting sweetness.
Originally known as hard candies, Jolly Ranchers have expanded into a variety of forms, including gummies, jelly beans, lollipops, sour bites, and traditional hard candies. Their wide range of classic and new flavors—such as watermelon, cherry, green apple, and blue raspberry—ensures there’s a favorite for everyone.
Jolly Ranchers are perfect for on-the-go snacking, sharing, or adding to candy mixes, and their vibrant colors make them a fun addition to parties and celebrations. Their enduring popularity lies in the combination of bold fruit flavors, long-lasting sweetness, and playful presentation.
19. Nerds – Tiny, Tangy, and Totally Fun
Nerds, owned by the Italian company Ferrero, have been a popular candy in the US since their introduction in 1982. These tiny, crunchy sweets are famous for their quirky shape, bright colors, and tangy, bold flavors.
Each box of Nerds contains two distinct colors and flavors, often paired as a sweet and a slightly tangy option. Candy lovers can enjoy each side separately or mix them together for a fun, customizable flavor experience. This playful approach has made Nerds especially popular among kids and teens.
Nerds are perfect for snacking, sharing, or adding to candy mixes for parties and holidays. Their crunchy texture, tangy taste, and vibrant appearance ensure they remain a memorable and beloved treat
20. Mike and Ike – Fruity Chews for Every Sweet Tooth
Rounding out the list at number 20 is Mike and Ike, the oblong, fruit-flavored chewy candies that have been an American favorite since their debut in 1940. Produced by Just Born Inc., Mike and Ike are known for their bright colors, bold fruity flavors, and fun, shareable size.
The candy comes in a variety of flavors and assortments, including classics like cherry, lemon, lime, orange, and strawberry, as well as limited-edition and sour mixes. Their chewy texture and fruity sweetness make them perfect for snacking, candy dishes, and party favors.
Over the decades, Mike and Ike have remained popular due to their versatility, nostalgic appeal, and fun, playful presentation, keeping fans coming back for more with every colorful box.
Fun Fact: The candies were originally created with two names, “Mike” and “Ike,” but the reasons behind the naming remain a playful mystery in candy history.
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