The 1980s was a decade of big hair, neon colors, and iconic pop culture moments. For many, it was also a time of indulging in delicious candy treats that are still remembered fondly today. From fruity sweets to classic chocolate bars, the 80s had a wide range of popular candy that satisfied the sweet tooth of many.
One of the most popular 80s candies was Skittles. These colorful, chewy candies were first introduced in the United States in 1982 and quickly became a hit. With their fruity flavors and bright colors, Skittles were a staple in many households and continue to be popular today. Another beloved candy from the 80s was Nerds. These tiny, crunchy candies were a favorite among kids and adults alike, with their unique flavors and fun packaging.
Other popular 80s candies included Pop Rocks, Airheads, and Sour Patch Kids. Pop Rocks were a sensation when they were first introduced in 1975, but their popularity continued into the 80s. Airheads, which were first introduced in 1986, quickly became a favorite among candy lovers for their chewy texture and fruity flavors. Sour Patch Kids, which were first introduced in 1985, were a sour and sweet treat that many enjoyed. Overall, the 80s had a wide range of popular candy that brought joy to many.
Iconic Chocolate Bars
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups were first introduced in 1928, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that they really became a popular candy. The combination of sweet chocolate and salty peanut butter was irresistible to many people, and the cups were often found in Halloween candy bags and vending machines. The cups come in different sizes and variations, such as white chocolate, dark chocolate, and even with pieces of Reese’s Pieces candy inside.
Snickers
Snickers bars were first introduced in 1930, but they gained immense popularity in the 1980s. The bars consist of a nougat center, caramel, peanuts, and milk chocolate coating. They were often advertised as a satisfying snack that would help people get through their hunger pangs. Snickers also introduced different variations, such as Snickers Almond and Snickers Cruncher, to cater to different tastes.
Twix
Twix bars were introduced in the United States in 1979, but they became a hit in the 1980s. The bars consist of a biscuit base topped with caramel and coated in milk chocolate. Twix bars were often advertised as a perfect snack to share with a friend, as they come in two bars per pack. The brand also introduced different variations, such as Twix Peanut Butter and Twix White, to cater to different tastes.
Overall, these three chocolate bars were some of the most popular candies of the 1980s, and they continue to be popular today. Their unique combinations of flavors and textures have made them iconic in the candy world.
Chewy Delights
When it comes to candy, chewy treats have always been a popular choice. The 80s had no shortage of these deliciously chewy delights. Here are some of the most memorable chewy candies of the era.
Skittles
Skittles were first introduced in the late 70s but gained immense popularity in the 80s. These colorful and fruit-flavored candies were a hit with kids and adults alike. Skittles come in a variety of flavors, including strawberry, orange, lemon, grape, and lime. Their chewy texture and sweet taste make them a classic candy that is still enjoyed today.
Starburst
Starburst is another chewy candy that gained immense popularity in the 80s. These fruit-flavored chews come in a variety of flavors, including cherry, orange, lemon, and strawberry. Starburst was known for its catchy slogan “Share the Fruit Chews,” which encouraged people to share their candy with friends and family. The chewy texture and fruity taste of Starburst make them a delicious treat that is still enjoyed today.
Airheads
Airheads were introduced in the mid-80s and quickly became a fan favorite. These chewy candies come in a variety of flavors, including cherry, orange, grape, and watermelon. Airheads are known for their intense flavors and chewy texture. They are perfect for those who love fruity candy with a bit of a tangy kick.
Overall, the 80s had no shortage of chewy candy options. Skittles, Starburst, and Airheads were just a few of the many popular choices. These chewy delights continue to be enjoyed today and are a testament to the enduring popularity of candy that is both sweet and chewy.
Classic Bubble Gums
Bubble gum was a staple of the 80s candy scene, and there were a few brands that stood out as the most popular. These classic bubble gums were loved by kids and adults alike, and they remain popular to this day.
Bubble Yum
Bubble Yum was one of the most popular bubble gum brands of the 80s, known for its soft and chewy texture and delicious flavors. The gum came in a variety of flavors, including Original, Grape, and Cotton Candy, and was a favorite of many kids.
Hubba Bubba
Hubba Bubba was another popular bubble gum brand from the 80s, known for its large size and long-lasting flavor. The gum came in a variety of flavors, including Strawberry, Watermelon, and Grape, and was a favorite of many kids.
Big League Chew
Big League Chew was a unique bubble gum brand that was marketed towards baseball players and fans. The gum came in a shredded form, similar to chewing tobacco, and was designed to be a healthier alternative. The gum quickly became popular with kids as well, thanks to its fun packaging and delicious flavors.
Overall, these classic bubble gum brands were a big part of the 80s candy scene, and they remain popular to this day. Whether you prefer the soft and chewy texture of Bubble Yum, the long-lasting flavor of Hubba Bubba, or the unique shredded form of Big League Chew, there’s a classic bubble gum out there for everyone.
Hard Candy Favorites
Jolly Ranchers
Jolly Ranchers were a staple of 80s candy. These small, hard candies came in a variety of flavors, including cherry, grape, watermelon, and green apple. They were perfect for sucking on during long car rides or as a sweet treat after a meal. Jolly Ranchers were also a popular choice for Halloween candy.
Lifesavers
Lifesavers were another classic hard candy from the 80s. These ring-shaped candies came in a variety of flavors, including cherry, lemon, lime, orange, and grape. They were perfect for sharing with friends and family, and their small size made them easy to carry around in a pocket or purse. Lifesavers were also a popular choice for Christmas stockings.
Pop Rocks
Pop Rocks were a unique and exciting candy from the 80s. These small, hard candies exploded in your mouth, creating a fizzy sensation that kids loved. Pop Rocks came in a variety of flavors, including strawberry, watermelon, and grape. They were perfect for sharing with friends and trying out different flavors. Pop Rocks were also a popular choice for birthday parties.
Overall, these hard candy favorites were a hit with kids and adults alike in the 80s. They provided a sweet and satisfying treat that could be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.
Novelty and Fun Candies
Nerds
Nerds candy was introduced in the 1980s and quickly became a sensation among kids and adults alike. These small, crunchy candies come in a variety of flavors, including grape, strawberry, and watermelon. Nerds candy is known for its bright colors and unique texture, making it a fun and exciting treat to enjoy. Whether eaten by the handful or used as a topping for ice cream or cupcakes, Nerds candy is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Runts
Runts candy is another popular novelty candy from the 80s. These small, fruit-shaped candies come in a variety of flavors, including banana, cherry, and grape. Runts candy is known for its bright colors and fun shapes, which include bananas, cherries, and strawberries. Whether enjoyed as a snack or used as a decoration for cakes or cupcakes, Runts candy is a fun and playful addition to any candy collection.
Candy Necklaces
Candy necklaces were a staple of 80s candy culture. These colorful necklaces are made up of small, hard candies that are strung together on an elastic string. Candy necklaces come in a variety of flavors, including cherry, grape, and lemon. They are a fun and playful accessory that can be worn and enjoyed as a snack at the same time. Whether worn by kids or adults, candy necklaces are a timeless classic that will always be associated with the 80s.
Gummy and Jelly Sweets
Gummy Bears
Gummy bears were a staple candy of the 80s and continue to be popular today. These chewy, fruity candies were created in Germany in the 1920s, but it wasn’t until the 80s that they gained widespread popularity in the United States. Gummy bears come in a variety of flavors, including cherry, orange, lemon, and raspberry. They are often sold in small bags or in larger containers, making them a great snack to share with friends.
Swedish Fish
Swedish Fish are another popular gummy candy from the 80s. These fish-shaped candies are soft and chewy with a fruity flavor. They were originally created in Sweden in the 1950s, but they didn’t become popular in the United States until the 80s. Swedish Fish are often sold in small bags or in larger containers, making them a great snack to share with friends.
Jelly Belly
Jelly Belly jelly beans were first introduced in 1976, but they gained widespread popularity in the 80s. These small, bean-shaped candies come in a variety of flavors, including watermelon, cherry, and blueberry. Jelly Belly jelly beans are often sold in small bags or in larger containers, making them a great snack to share with friends. They are also often used in games, such as Jelly Belly roulette, where players spin a wheel to determine which flavor of jelly bean they must eat.
Minty Fresh Selections
When it comes to refreshing breath, the 80s had some great options. Here are some of the most popular minty fresh selections:
Mentos
Mentos were introduced in the United States in 1982 and quickly became a hit. These chewy mints were available in a variety of flavors, including peppermint, spearmint, and fruit flavors. Mentos were known for their catchy commercials, which often featured people performing impressive feats after eating the mints.
Tic Tac
Tic Tac mints were first introduced in Italy in 1969, but they didn’t become popular in the United States until the 80s. These small, hard mints were available in a variety of flavors, including mint, cinnamon, and fruit flavors. Tic Tac mints were known for their distinctive packaging, which made them easy to carry in a pocket or purse.
Junior Mints
Junior Mints were first introduced in 1949, but they remained popular throughout the 80s. These small, chocolate-covered mints were available in a variety of packages, including boxes and movie theater concessions. Junior Mints were known for their creamy, minty filling and their association with the classic movie theater experience.
Luscious Licorice Treats
Licorice is a classic candy that has been enjoyed for centuries. It comes in many different forms, from soft and chewy to hard and crunchy. In the 80s, licorice was a popular treat that could be found in many candy stores. Here are two of the most popular licorice treats from the 80s:
Twizzlers
Twizzlers are a type of licorice candy that was first introduced in 1845. They are made from twisted strands of soft, chewy candy that is flavored with licorice. Twizzlers come in a variety of flavors, including strawberry, cherry, and black licorice. They are also available in different sizes, from bite-sized pieces to long, twisted ropes.
Red Vines
Red Vines are another popular type of licorice candy from the 80s. They are made from a soft and chewy candy that is flavored with red licorice. Red Vines are known for their distinctive flavor and texture, which make them a favorite among licorice lovers. They are available in different sizes, from bite-sized pieces to long, twisted ropes.
Both Twizzlers and Red Vines are still popular today and can be found in most candy stores. They are a great choice for anyone who loves the sweet and tangy flavor of licorice. Whether you prefer soft and chewy or hard and crunchy, there is a licorice candy out there for everyone.
Seasonal and Holiday Specials
The 80s was a decade of festive cheer and indulgence, and candy played a significant role in it. From Halloween to Christmas, there was always a special candy to match the occasion. The following are some of the most popular seasonal and holiday specials that made the 80s so memorable.
Halloween
Halloween was a favorite holiday for many kids in the 80s, and it was all about the candy. Some of the most popular Halloween candies included Reese’s Pieces, Nerds, and Skittles. However, the one candy that stood out the most was the iconic candy corn. It was a staple of every Halloween candy bag and was loved by kids and adults alike.
Christmas
Christmas was another holiday that was not complete without candy. Candy canes were the most popular Christmas candy, and they were found everywhere, from Christmas trees to stockings. Other popular Christmas candies included chocolate Santas, M&Ms, and Hershey’s Kisses. However, the one candy that was unique to the 80s was the Lifesavers Storybook. It was a book-shaped container filled with various flavors of Lifesavers, making it a perfect stocking stuffer.
Easter
Easter was all about chocolate eggs and bunnies. Cadbury Creme Eggs were a popular Easter candy, and they were loved by many. Other popular Easter candies included Peeps, jelly beans, and chocolate bunnies. However, the one candy that was unique to the 80s was the Kinder Surprise Egg. It was a chocolate egg that contained a surprise toy inside, making it a favorite among kids.
In conclusion, the 80s was a decade of indulgence, and candy played a significant role in it. From Halloween to Christmas to Easter, there was always a special candy to match the occasion.