13 Non-Chocolate Candy Favorites That’ll Make Your Taste Buds Dance

Are you tired of the same old chocolate treats and want to try something different? The candy industry offers over 100 non-chocolate candy options that pack bold flavors and exciting textures.

We’ve picked 13 amazing candies that will give your taste buds a wild ride through fruity, sour, and sweet sensations. Get ready to discover your new favorite treats!

Key Takeaways

Non-chocolate candies come in over 100 varieties, with Sour Patch Kids ranking 3rd in The Cut’s top Halloween candies of 2018.

Skittles ranked second among 8,009 votes for best non-chocolate candies, while Starburst placed third with 7,263 votes and is loved by 55% of candy enthusiasts.

Haribo Gold-Bears, made since 1922, produce enough gummy bears yearly to wrap around Earth ten times, with each 13-piece serving containing just 100 calories.

Swedish Fish started in the 1950s by Malaco in Sweden with lingonberry flavor, while Hi-Chew offers 113 different flavors packed with real fruit juices and purees.

Werther’s Original caramels contain 50 calories per two pieces and 7g of total sugars, made with real cream and butter for their signature smooth texture.

Exploring Top Non-Chocolate Candy Varieties

A couple in their late 20s enjoying colorful, fruity candies in a cozy living room.

Let’s skip the chocolate and jump into the sweet world of fruity, tangy, and chewy treats. These candies pack a punch of flavor that will make your taste buds do a happy dance, from sour-sweet combos to juicy fruit explosions.

Enjoying Sour Patch Kids

A 12-year-old boy enjoys Sour Patch Kids candy on a park bench.

Sour Patch Kids stand tall as a candy favorite, ranking 3rd in The Cut’s top Halloween candies of 2018. These tart-then-sweet treats pack a punch with five amazing flavors: Lemon, Blue Raspberry, Orange, Green, and Redberry.

Perfect for a 12-year-old’s birthday party, these kid-shaped candies start super sour and end with a sweet finish.

First they’re Sour, then they’re sweet – this famous slogan captures why fans can’t stop at just one.

The magic of Sour Patch Kids lies in their dual-flavor experience. Each piece starts with a zesty coating that makes your taste buds tingle. The sour blast quickly melts away to reveal a soft, fruity center that brings pure joy.

These treats pair great with other non-chocolate candies like gummy bears for a fun candy mix.

Tasting Skittles

A close-up photo of colorful Skittles scattered on a wooden table.

Skittles burst with fruity flavors that make your taste buds dance. These tiny, rainbow-colored candies pack a punch of sweet and tangy goodness in every bite. Mars’ Wrigley keeps expanding their production to meet growing demand, proving just how much people love these colorful treats.

The candy’s motto “Taste the Rainbow” perfectly captures its appeal, offering five fruit flavors in each pack.

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These bite-sized delights rank second among 8,009 votes for best non-chocolate candies. People love mixing different flavors to create their own taste combinations. The crispy shell and chewy center give you two textures to enjoy.

Next up, let’s explore another fruity favorite that brings joy with every piece – Starburst.

Savoring Starburst

A woman in her 30s unwrapping and enjoying fruit-flavored Starburst candies in a park.

Starburst candies burst with juicy fruit flavors that make your taste buds dance. These square-shaped treats come wrapped in bright paper and pack a punch of sweet-tart goodness. I love how each piece melts slowly, releasing waves of strawberry, orange, lemon, or cherry flavor.

The chewy texture keeps you coming back for more, which explains why 55% of candy lovers pick these as their go-to sweet treat.

These fruity favorites ranked third place in a massive candy poll, scoring 7,263 votes from sugar enthusiasts. My personal trick involves unwrapping several pieces at once and stacking similar flavors together for an extra-intense fruit blast.

The soft, chewy texture feels different from hard candies like Twizzlers or Turkish Taffy, making Starburst stand out in the non-chocolate candy world.

Relishing Haribo Gold-Bears

A young woman sitting on a sofa, enjoying Haribo Gold-Bears.

Haribo Gold-Bears bring pure joy in every chewy bite. These tiny treats pack big flavor that makes my taste buds dance with happiness. Each serving of 13 pieces contains just 100 calories, perfect for a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

The bears come in five fruity flavors that burst with natural-tasting goodness.

Since 1922, these gummy bears have ruled candy aisles worldwide. The yearly production of these bears could wrap around Earth ten times – that’s a lot of gummy goodness! I love sharing these with friends during movie nights or keeping them in my desk for a quick sugar boost.

Their soft, bouncy texture and bright colors make them impossible to resist.

Fruity and Chewy Classics

An assortment of classic fruity and chewy candies on a wooden table.

Get ready to explore three chewy treats that pack a punch of fruity goodness, from classic red favorites to Japanese sensations that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy.

Swedish Fish: A Timeless Red Treat

A woman holds a handful of Swedish Fish candies in a cozy home.

Swedish Fish burst onto the candy scene in the late 1950s, straight from the creative minds at Malaco in Sweden. These chewy red treats started with a tasty lingonberry flavor that made everyone’s taste buds happy.

I enjoyed my first bite into these sweet, fish-shaped candies at my local candy store. The soft, non-gelatin texture makes them different from other gummy treats.

“Swedish Fish are delicious candy that brings sweet memories in every bite!”

These red swimmers have expanded into many flavors through the years. Now you can grab green apple, lemon, orange, and blue raspberry versions to mix things up. My privacy policy with Swedish Fish is simple – I always keep a stash in my desk drawer for those sweet-tooth emergencies.

The candy’s simple shape and bold taste have stayed true since day one, showing that sometimes the best treats don’t need changes to stay popular.

Hi-Chew: Japanese Fruit-Flavored Sensation

A woman enjoying grapefruit-flavored Hi-Chew candy in a cozy living room.

Hi-Chew brings Japan’s favorite candy right to your taste buds. These chewy treats pack real fruit juices and purees into every bite, making them burst with natural flavors. I love how each piece starts firm, then melts into a soft, satisfying chew that lasts longer than most candies.

These fruit-packed candies offer an amazing 113 different flavors to try. My personal favorites include the tangy grapefruit, zesty lemon, and sweet watermelon options. The best part? They’re cholesterol-free and contain zero trans fats, so you can enjoy them without the usual candy guilt.

Each package comes with four 12.7-ounce pouches, perfect for sharing or keeping as your secret stash.

Airheads: Rainbow of Taffy Flavors

A woman enjoying Airheads taffy at a cozy home desk.

Moving from Hi-Chew’s Japanese roots, let’s explore another chewy favorite that brings a burst of American flavors. Airheads taffy delivers a rainbow of fruit-packed joy in every bite.

These stretchy, colorful strips come loaded with cherry, orange, lemon, lime, and grape flavors that make your taste buds sing.

Each pack brings serious value with 80 pieces split into four bags of 20 pieces each. The USA-made treats total 32.17 ounces of pure taffy bliss. I love keeping these in my desk drawer for a quick afternoon pick-me-up.

The soft, chewy texture and bright fruit flavors never fail to lift my mood. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with friends during movie nights or road trips.

Hard Candy Favorites

Elderly woman enjoying hard candies by the fireplace.

Hard candies pack a punch of flavor that lasts way longer than other sweet treats. These classic treats bring back memories of grandma’s candy dish and fill prescriptions for pure sugary bliss.

Jolly Ranchers: Long-Lasting Fruit Intensity

A woman picking up a watermelon Jolly Rancher from a bowl.

Jolly Ranchers burst with bold fruit flavors that last longer than most hard candies. Since 1949, Bill and Dorothy Harmsen’s sweet creation has made taste buds dance with joy. These glossy gems come in five mouth-watering flavors: watermelon, cherry, blue raspberry, grape, and green apple.

Each piece delivers a punch of fruity goodness that keeps you coming back for more.

Ladies love these gluten-free treats for their intense flavor and slow-dissolving nature. Pop one in your mouth during your afternoon slump, and let the fruity magic work its charm.

Life is like a Jolly Rancher – sweet, colorful, and full of surprises!

The original hard candy line offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. These candies make great desk companions or purse treats for quick energy boosts throughout your busy day.

Life Savers: Iconic Ring-Shaped Sweetness

Life Savers candy brings back sweet memories of childhood treats. These ring-shaped candies pack a punch of flavor in every bite. The hard candy melts slowly in your mouth, releasing waves of fruity goodness.

I love keeping a roll in my purse for a quick pick-me-up during busy afternoons.

These iconic treats come in bright, fun colors that catch your eye. The original five flavors – cherry, orange, lemon, lime, and pineapple – still rule the candy aisle today. The minty varieties offer a cool blast that freshens breath instantly.

Their hole-in-the-middle design makes them perfect for sharing with friends or storing in small spaces.

Werther’s Original: Creamy Caramel Delight

Werther’s Original brings pure joy in every golden wrapper. These creamy caramel treats pack rich butter and fresh cream into each smooth piece. Just two pieces contain 50 calories, making them perfect for a quick sweet fix.

The mix of glucose syrup and sugar creates that classic caramel taste we’ve grown to love.

These delightful candies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and buttery goodness. Each serving delivers 7g of total sugars, while real cream and butter give them their signature smooth texture.

People with milk, soybean, or wheat allergies should check the label first. I keep a small stash in my purse for those moments when sugar cravings hit hard.

Gummy Candies Beyond the Basics

Colorful gummy candies spread out on a rustic wooden table.

Gummy candies bring pure joy with their bouncy texture and bold flavors. These sweet treats go beyond basic bears, with wild shapes and tastes that’ll make your candy dish the talk of any party.

Trolli Gummy Worms: Neon-Colored Fun

Trolli brings pure joy with their bright, neon-colored worms that light up any candy bowl. These wiggly treats pack a punch with their Sour Bursting Crawlers, which hide a gooey explosion inside.

The fun doesn’t stop there – Sour Electric Crawlers and Sour Duo Crawlers add extra zing to snack time.

Kids and grown-ups alike can’t resist the playful “Eat Me” message on these sweet-and-sour treats. The Very Berry and Sour Brite Octopus options give candy lovers more ways to enjoy these stretchy, colorful snacks.

Each bite delivers a perfect mix of sweet outer layer and tart filling that makes taste buds tingle. Red vines fans often grab these as a fun alternative for their candy stash.

Albanese Gummi Bears: Flavor-Packed Options

Albanese Gummi Bears burst with real fruit flavor in every chewy bite. These sweet treats come in twelve bold flavors that pack more punch than regular gummy bears. I love how each color matches its taste perfectly – from tangy pineapple to sweet cherry.

At $3.99 per bag, these bears offer great value for their premium quality.

The sorting system makes it super easy to find your favorite flavors fast. You can browse through featured picks or check out the newest arrivals first. My friends always grab the Gummi Peach Rings, which have become a top seller.

Speaking of fun shapes, let’s look at how Trolli Gummy Worms bring neon colors to the candy aisle.

Fruit Snacks: Healthier Alternative Treats

Moving from sweet gummy bears to smarter snack choices, fruit snacks offer a better way to satisfy sweet cravings. Parents love Solely Organic Whole Fruit Gummies because they skip artificial flavors and high fructose corn syrup.

These treats pack real fruit goodness, including some made from Gala apples and other natural ingredients.

Chum Fruit Bites stand out as another great pick for health-minded snackers. The best part? You can make your own fruit snacks at home with simple ingredients. Mix pure fruit juice with natural gelatin for a fun, wholesome treat your kids will love.

These snacks give you the sweet taste you want without the extra stuff you don’t need.

People Also Ask

What makes non-chocolate candy different from regular chocolate treats?

Non-chocolate candies bring a burst of flavors from fruity to sour to sweet. They often use natural flavors, different textures, and bright colors that chocolate can’t match. Think gummy bears, fruit chews, and hard candies that pop in your mouth!

Which non-chocolate candies are best for people with allergies?

Many non-chocolate candies are free from common allergens like nuts and dairy. Look for fruit-based candies, lollipops, and sour belts. Always check the label, though, as some factories process different types of candy together.

How long do non-chocolate candies usually last?

Hard candies and lollipops can last up to a year when stored right. Soft candies like gummies might last 6–8 months. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to make them last longer.

What are some popular non-chocolate candy choices for parties?

Jelly beans, gummy worms, and sour patches are party favorites. They’re colorful, easy to share, and won’t melt like chocolate does. Plus, they come in big bags, perfect for filling candy bowls or party favors.

References

https://hhsmedia.com/27653/opinion/sour-patch-kids-deserve-to-be-on-top-of-everyones-favorite-candy-list/ (2019-01-19)

https://www.vendingmarketwatch.com/management/news/12224948/skittles-become-americas-favorite-non-chocolate-candy (2016-06-24)

https://www.fooddive.com/news/skittles-is-top-non-chocolate-candy-in-us-but-will-consumers-see-a-rainbo/421269/ (2016-06-20)

https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/best-non-chocolate-candies

https://www.haribo.com/en-us/products/goldbears

https://www.campervansweden.com/blog/about-sweden/swedish-fish-flavor

https://www.amazon.com/Hi-Chew-Sensationally-Chewy-Japanese-4Count/dp/B07RRYN16P

https://www.hi-chew.com/pages/about-us

https://www.amazon.com/Heads-Assorted-Fruit-Flavors-Minis/dp/B01LYHB7N7

https://www.amazon.com/Heads-Xtremes-Candy-Rainbow-Berry/dp/B0CJQJSZQH

https://www.hersheyland.com/jolly-rancher

https://shop.hersheys.com/our-brands/jolly-rancher/?srsltid=AfmBOooQHp-3w67pcuz4ZgyPdBekyEu-5IhIIgfQmm3CkV_SvVEC-BK4

https://www.life-savers.com/

https://www.werthers-original.us/en/products/hard-caramels/caramel-filled

https://www.trolli.com/

https://www.albanesecandy.com/gummies/individual-flavors/?srsltid=AfmBOoovCRrAaaNYOze1GSeaWSAXJy-VBaaFcAOMUDBFRpn7rKmkgh3Z

https://www.albanesecandy.com/gummies/individual-flavors/?srsltid=AfmBOor9aUtwcHQx1Y3XE_Z7I-5e2bJqzDwo-3R483lA5lneIpwL4fy-

https://www.theleangreenbean.com/healthy-fruit-snacks/ (2023-06-21)

https://www.actiononsugar.org/surveys/2020/fruit-snacks-/

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Crystal

I'm Crystal. I'm married to Dale, and mother to Johnny. Some might say that my life is perfect because I get to do all the cliché wife things like cooking, cleaning, and decorating - but there's more! I also have many hobbies including needlework (crochet), sewing, and reading. My son's education is important, so we homeschool him together.

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