Long Boys candy is a beloved treat that has been enjoyed by generations of Americans. This chewy caramel candy is known for its distinctive shape, which resembles a long stick or rod. The candy’s name is derived from its shape, and it has become a classic candy that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
The exact origins of Long Boys candy are not widely documented, but it is believed that they were introduced in the mid-20th century. Atkinson Candy Company, which was founded in 1932 by B.E. Atkinson, Sr. and his wife Mabel C. Atkinson, is the manufacturer of Long Boys candy. The company started when Basil E. Atkinson made two-day treks to Houston to purchase candy and tobacco, which he would then sell to mom-and-pop shops on the return trip.
Origins of Long Boys Candy
Long Boys candy is a type of chewy caramel candy that is shaped like a slender, elongated cylinder. The candy’s name is derived from its distinctive shape, resembling a “long boy.” The exact origins of Long Boys candy are not widely documented, but they are believed to have been introduced in the mid-20th century.
Long Boys candy is made by Atkinson Candy Company, a private company founded in 1932 by B.E. Atkinson, Sr., and his wife, Mabel C. Atkinson. The company started when Basil E. Atkinson made two-day treks to Houston to purchase candy and tobacco, then he would sell it to mom-and-pop shops on the return trip.
Long Boys candy comes in two flavors: coconut and chocolate. The coconut flavor has a more “roasted” than your average coconut-in-candy taste, and that’s good. The chocolate version is a chocolate caramel. The candy is a favorite of many and has been around for decades.
Evolution of the Recipe
Initial Ingredients and Flavors
Long Boys candy was first introduced in the mid-20th century as a type of chewy caramel candy that was shaped like a slender, elongated cylinder. The candy’s name is derived from its distinctive shape, resembling a long stick or rod. The initial recipe included simple ingredients such as sugar, corn syrup, cream, and butter. The flavor was primarily caramel with a hint of vanilla.
In the 1950s, Long Boys candy was further improved with the addition of real coconut flakes to the recipe. This addition gave the candy a unique texture and flavor that quickly made it a favorite among candy lovers.
Changes and Improvements Over Time
As the popularity of Long Boys candy grew, the recipe continued to evolve. In the 1960s, the Atkinson Candy Company, which had acquired the recipe, began producing Long Boys in a variety of flavors such as chocolate and peanut butter. However, the original coconut flavor remained the most popular.
In recent years, Long Boys candy has undergone further changes to cater to changing tastes and preferences. The candy is now available in sugar-free and gluten-free options, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Despite these changes, the original recipe for Long Boys candy remains largely unchanged. The candy is still made with simple, high-quality ingredients and continues to be a beloved treat among candy enthusiasts.
Brand History
Founding Company
Long Boys is a classic American candy that has been around for generations. The candy was first introduced in the 1950s and became an instant hit with candy lovers. The founding company of Long Boys Candy is the Atkinson Candy Company, which was established in 1932 by B.E. Atkinson and his wife, Mabel C. Atkinson. The company started by selling candy and tobacco to mom-and-pop shops on the return trip from Houston.
Ownership Transitions
Over the years, ownership of the Atkinson Candy Company has changed hands several times. In 2019, the company was acquired by Impact Confections, a leading manufacturer of innovative candy products. However, despite the change in ownership, the Atkinson Candy Company continues to manufacture and distribute Long Boys candy using the same recipe that has made it a favorite among candy lovers for generations.
Long Boys candy is a chewy caramel blended with flakes of real coconut, which gives it a unique and delicious taste. The candy has been produced by multiple confectionery companies over the years, but the Atkinson Candy Company is the most notable brand associated with Long Boys. Despite its long history, Long Boys candy remains a favorite among candy lovers of all ages.
Manufacturing Process
Early Production Techniques
Long Boys candy was first produced in the early 1900s by the Atkinson Candy Company. The candy was made using a simple recipe consisting of sugar, corn syrup, butter, and condensed milk. The ingredients were cooked together and then shaped into long, thin rolls. The candy was then wrapped in wax paper and sold to customers.
The early production techniques used to make Long Boys candy were simple and relied on manual labor. Workers would mix the ingredients together by hand and then shape the candy into rolls using molds. The candy was then wrapped by hand in wax paper.
Modern Manufacturing Advancements
Today, Long Boys candy is still made using the same basic recipe, but modern manufacturing techniques have made the process much more efficient. The ingredients are now mixed together using automated machinery, which ensures that the candy is consistent in texture and flavor.
The candy is then shaped using automated molding machines, which can produce hundreds of rolls per minute. The rolls are then wrapped in wax paper using automated wrapping machines, which can wrap thousands of rolls per hour.
Overall, the manufacturing process for Long Boys candy has evolved over the years, but the candy itself has remained a beloved treat for generations.
Cultural Impact
Long Boys in Popular Culture
Long Boys candy has been a popular treat in the United States since its creation in the 1950s. Over the years, it has made its way into popular culture in various ways. For example, in the 1994 movie “Pulp Fiction,” the character played by Samuel L. Jackson references Long Boys while discussing his love for candy. The candy has also been mentioned in songs, TV shows, and other movies.
Nostalgia Factor
Long Boys candy has a strong nostalgia factor for many people. Those who grew up eating the candy often associate it with happy memories of childhood. The candy’s unique flavor and texture also make it stand out from other treats, which adds to its nostalgic appeal. Many people continue to enjoy Long Boys as adults, both for the taste and the memories it brings back.
Overall, Long Boys candy has had a significant cultural impact in the United States. Its presence in popular culture and its nostalgic appeal have helped it remain a beloved treat for generations.
Variations and Products
Different Long Boys Varieties
Long Boys candy has been enjoyed for decades and has become a classic treat for many. Over the years, Atkinson Candy Company has introduced different varieties of Long Boys to cater to different tastes. The original Long Boys candy flavor is coconut, but the company has since expanded its offerings to include other flavors such as chocolate and peanut butter.
Long Boys are also available in different sizes, including bite-sized pieces and larger bars. The bite-sized pieces are perfect for snacking on the go, while the larger bars are great for sharing with friends and family.
Seasonal and Limited Editions
In addition to its regular lineup of Long Boys candy, Atkinson Candy Company also releases seasonal and limited edition flavors. These flavors are often inspired by holidays or special occasions and are only available for a limited time.
Some of the seasonal and limited edition flavors that have been released in the past include pumpkin spice, peppermint, and eggnog. These flavors are a great way to add some variety to your Long Boys candy collection and make great gifts for candy lovers.
Overall, Long Boys candy offers a wide range of flavors and sizes to suit different tastes and occasions. Whether you prefer the classic coconut flavor or are looking to try something new, there is a Long Boys candy variety for everyone.
Marketing and Advertising
Historic Marketing Campaigns
Long Boys Coconut candy has been around since the early 1900s and has been a regional favorite for generations. The candy was initially sold in New Orleans and became popular in the southern states. Atkinson Candy Company, the makers of Long Boys Coconut, used various marketing campaigns to promote the candy, which helped to increase its popularity.
One of the earliest marketing campaigns for Long Boys Coconut was in the 1950s. The company used billboards and radio advertisements to promote the candy. The advertisements featured catchy jingles and slogans that helped to create brand awareness. The company also used product placement in movies and television shows to promote the candy.
Another marketing campaign that helped to boost the popularity of Long Boys Coconut was in the 1970s. The company used television commercials to promote the candy. The commercials featured children enjoying the candy and the catchy slogan, “Long Boys Coconut, the candy that lasts a long time.”
Role of Social Media
In recent years, social media has become an essential tool for marketing and advertising. Atkinson Candy Company has also used social media to promote Long Boys Coconut. The company has a Facebook page where it posts updates about the candy and engages with its customers. The company also uses Instagram to showcase photos of the candy and interact with its followers.
Social media has allowed Atkinson Candy Company to reach a wider audience and connect with its customers. The company can also receive feedback from its customers, which helps to improve the candy and the overall customer experience.
Overall, Atkinson Candy Company has used various marketing campaigns over the years to promote Long Boys Coconut candy. From billboards and radio advertisements to social media, the company has adapted to changing marketing trends to ensure the continued success of the candy.
Distribution and Availability
Domestic Distribution
Long Boys candy has been a beloved treat in the United States since the mid-20th century. The candy is distributed domestically across the country, and it is readily available in most grocery stores, convenience stores, and candy shops. Long Boys candy is produced by Atkinson Candy Company, which is based in Lufkin, Texas.
Atkinson Candy Company is a family-owned business that has been producing candy for over 90 years. Long Boys candy is one of the company’s signature products, and it is widely distributed across the country. The candy is available in a variety of sizes, including fun-size caramels, 1.5 oz bars, and bulk packages.
International Presence
While Long Boys candy is primarily distributed domestically, it has also gained popularity in other parts of the world. The candy is exported to several countries, including Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom.
Long Boys candy is known for its unique shape and delicious flavor, which has made it a favorite among candy lovers around the world. The candy’s popularity has led to increased demand, and Atkinson Candy Company has expanded its production to meet the needs of customers both domestically and internationally.
In summary, Long Boys candy is a popular treat that is widely distributed across the United States and exported to several other countries. Atkinson Candy Company has been producing this beloved candy for over 90 years, and its unique shape and delicious flavor have made it a favorite among candy lovers around the world.
Consumer Reception and Reviews
Long Boys Candy has been a favorite among candy lovers for over half a century. The chewy, caramel-like texture combined with the sweet, buttery, coconut flavor has been a hit with consumers since its inception.
Many consumers have praised Long Boys for their unique texture and flavor. Some have even compared them to other popular candies like Chick-O-Stick, also made by Atkinson Candy Company.
According to reviews, Long Boys are easy to eat and have a more “roasted” coconut flavor than other coconut candies. The packaging, which has remained the same for years, is also a nostalgic factor for many consumers.
Overall, Long Boys Candy has received positive reviews and continues to be a beloved treat for those who enjoy a sweet, chewy snack.