1. Hard Candy
Hard candy is one of the oldest and most popular types of sweets, known for its long-lasting flavor and smooth, glossy texture. Made primarily from boiled sugar syrup, hard candies are heated until they reach a high temperature, then cooled to form a solid, glass-like consistency. They usually have a crisp snap and dissolve slowly in the mouth, delivering a satisfying sweetness over time.
1.1 Lollipops
Lollipops are a classic type of hard candy mounted on a stick, designed to be enjoyed slowly. They come in a wide range of flavors, colors, and shapes, making them a favorite treat for children and adults alike. The main ingredients—sugar, corn syrup, and flavoring—are boiled to a high temperature, poured into molds, and allowed to cool around the stick to form their signature shape.
Lollipops can be simple single-flavor sweets or complex multi-layered creations. Some versions include gum, chocolate, or powder-filled centers, while others feature unique swirl designs or novelty shapes. They’re often used for celebrations, party favors, and promotional giveaways because of their bright appearance and long shelf life.
Popular lollipop brands like Chupa Chups, Dum Dums, and Tootsie Pops have made this candy an international icon. Whether fruity, creamy, or sour, lollipops deliver a playful, nostalgic sweetness that never goes out of style.
Chupa Chups
1.2 Peppermints
Peppermints are a refreshing type of hard candy known for their cool, minty flavor and smooth, crisp texture. Made from a mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and peppermint oil, these candies are often molded into small discs or sticks, featuring distinctive red-and-white swirls that make them instantly recognizable.
Peppermints are widely enjoyed after meals for their ability to freshen breath and soothe digestion. They are also a common ingredient in holiday treats and decorative desserts, especially during the winter season. Depending on the formulation, they can be either crunchy and brittle or slightly chewy for a softer mouthfeel.
Popular varieties include Peppermint Starlights, Candy Canes, and Peppermint Drops. With their invigorating taste and timeless appeal, peppermints remain one of the most recognizable and enduring forms of hard candy worldwide.
1.3 Butterscotch
Butterscotch is a traditional type of hard candy prized for its rich, buttery flavor and golden color. Made by boiling brown sugar and butter together, sometimes with a hint of vanilla or cream, butterscotch delivers a warm, caramel-like sweetness that melts smoothly in the mouth. The name “butterscotch” is believed to come from the old English word “scotch,” meaning to cut or score, referring to how the candy was traditionally broken into pieces once cooled.
Butterscotch candies are often found in round, amber-colored discs with a glossy finish. They offer a comforting, nostalgic taste that appeals to both older generations and younger candy lovers. In addition to hard candies, butterscotch is also used in syrups, puddings, and dessert toppings, making it a versatile flavor in the confectionery world.
Brands such as Brach’s and Werther’s Original have popularized butterscotch candy globally, keeping its smooth, buttery sweetness a beloved classic among hard candy varieties.
Werther’s Original
2. Soft Candy
Soft candy is known for its smooth texture, delicate chew, and melt-in-the-mouth sweetness. Unlike hard candy, which is cooked to a high temperature for a glassy finish, soft candies are prepared with ingredients like butter, milk, gelatin, or corn syrup that keep them tender and pliable. This category includes a wide range of treats, from creamy caramels to fluffy marshmallows, each offering a unique mouthfeel and flavor profile.
Soft candies are often associated with comfort and indulgence. Their versatile texture allows them to be filled, coated, or layered with other ingredients such as chocolate, nuts, or fruit puree. They are especially popular in festive assortments, confectionery gifts, and homemade dessert recipes. Because they can be easily shaped and flavored, soft candies are also favorites among artisanal candy makers.
The most common types of soft candy include caramels, toffees, and marshmallows — each bringing its own signature sweetness and texture. Below are some of the most popular varieties.
2.1 Caramels
Caramels are soft, chewy candies made by slowly heating sugar, butter, and cream until they develop a rich golden-brown color and a deep, buttery flavor. Their texture ranges from firm and chewy to smooth and creamy, depending on the cooking temperature and ingredient ratio. Caramels are often enjoyed on their own, wrapped in wax paper, or used as a filling for chocolate candies, cakes, and ice cream toppings.
Well-known caramel varieties include salted caramel, vanilla caramel, and chocolate-covered caramel. Their delicate balance of sweetness and creaminess has made them a staple in both traditional and gourmet confectionery.
2.2 Toffees
Toffees are a beloved type of soft candy characterized by their rich, buttery flavor and slightly chewy texture. Made by slowly heating sugar and butter together, sometimes with the addition of cream or molasses, toffee develops a deep caramelized taste and a glossy finish. The longer it’s cooked, the firmer it becomes, creating variations that range from soft and chewy to crisp and brittle.
Traditional toffee is often poured into sheets, cooled, and broken into irregular pieces. However, softer versions are molded into small, bite-sized candies that melt gradually on the tongue. Some varieties are coated with chocolate or sprinkled with nuts for added flavor and crunch. Toffee is especially popular in the UK, where classic brands like Walker’s Nonsuch and Thorntons have made it a national favorite.
With its smooth texture and comforting sweetness, toffee bridges the gap between caramel and hard candy, offering a timeless treat enjoyed worldwide.
2.3 Marshmallows
Marshmallows are light, fluffy soft candies made from a mixture of sugar, water, gelatin, and air, giving them their distinctive spongy texture. Originally derived from the sap of the marshmallow plant, modern marshmallows are created through aeration, where the sugar mixture is whipped until it forms a smooth, foamy consistency that sets as it cools.
These candies are often coated with a thin layer of cornstarch or powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Marshmallows are typically enjoyed on their own, roasted over a fire, or used in a wide range of desserts such as Rice Krispies treats, s’mores, and hot chocolate toppings. Their mild sweetness and melt-in-the-mouth feel make them a favorite comfort candy worldwide.
Available in various shapes, colors, and flavors, marshmallows are especially popular during holidays and celebrations. Whether enjoyed plain, toasted, or dipped in chocolate, they represent one of the most playful and versatile forms of soft candy.
3. Chewy Candy
Chewy candy is known for its elastic, satisfying texture that requires slow, deliberate chewing, allowing the flavor to unfold gradually. These candies often contain ingredients such as gelatin, pectin, starch, or taffy base to achieve their signature chewiness. Popular among both children and adults, chewy candies come in a variety of shapes, colors, and flavors — from fruity gummies to stretchy taffy and flavored licorice sticks.
Because of their texture and versatility, chewy candies are often used for fun, playful eating experiences and are a staple in candy assortments worldwide. They also tend to have longer-lasting flavors compared to soft or hard candies, making them a popular everyday treat.
The most well-known types of chewy candy include gummies, taffy, and licorice, each offering a distinct chew and flavor profile.
3.1 Gummies
Gummies are colorful, translucent candies made from a combination of sugar, gelatin, and fruit flavoring. Their soft, elastic texture makes them enjoyable to chew, and their wide variety of shapes — from bears and worms to rings and fruits — has made them a favorite among candy lovers of all ages.
Originally inspired by German “Gummibärchen” (gummy bears), gummies now come in countless flavors, including sweet, sour, and even vitamin-enriched varieties. Popular brands like Haribo, Trolli, and Albanese dominate the global gummy market. Gummies are also frequently used in novelty packaging and seasonal candy collections.
Whether fruity, tangy, or sweet, gummies combine visual appeal with a fun, chewy texture that makes them one of the most beloved candy types worldwide.
Haribo
3.2 Taffy
Taffy is a classic chewy candy known for its smooth, stretchy texture and vibrant flavors. It’s made by boiling sugar, corn syrup, butter, and flavorings together, then pulling and stretching the mixture repeatedly while it cools. This “pulling” process incorporates air, giving taffy its soft, light consistency and making it easy to bite and chew.
Traditional taffy originated in the late 19th century and became especially popular in seaside towns, where saltwater taffy gained fame as a coastal souvenir. Despite the name, saltwater taffy doesn’t actually contain seawater — the term simply refers to its light, briny sweetness and seaside heritage.
Taffy is available in countless flavors and colors, from fruity favorites like strawberry and banana to nostalgic varieties such as vanilla, butterscotch, and cotton candy. Each piece is typically wrapped in wax paper to preserve freshness and prevent sticking. Popular producers like Atlantic City Salt Water Taffy and Laffy Taffy continue to keep this chewy classic alive, blending tradition with modern flavor creativity.
3.3 Licorice
Licorice is a distinctive type of chewy candy made from the extract of the licorice root plant, which gives it a unique, mildly sweet, and slightly herbal flavor. Traditional black licorice is known for its bold, aromatic taste, often enhanced with anise oil, while red licorice — typically strawberry or cherry flavored — offers a fruitier and more approachable sweetness.
Licorice candy has a firm yet flexible texture, allowing it to be shaped into ropes, twists, wheels, or bite-sized pieces. Its chewy consistency makes it satisfying to eat slowly, while the range of flavors appeals to diverse tastes. Black licorice is particularly popular in Europe, especially in countries like the Netherlands, Finland, and Germany, where it’s often combined with salty or spicy notes.
Well-known licorice brands include Twizzlers, Red Vines, and Panda. Beyond its use as a sweet treat, licorice root has also been valued for centuries for its soothing and medicinal properties, making it one of the most historic and versatile candies in the confectionery world.
4. Chocolate Candy
Chocolate candy is one of the most beloved and indulgent categories in the confectionery world. Made primarily from cocoa solids, cocoa butter, milk, and sugar, these candies combine the rich, creamy taste of chocolate with various fillings, textures, and coatings. From silky milk chocolate bars to decadent truffles, chocolate candy appeals to virtually every palate and occasion.
The versatility of chocolate allows it to pair beautifully with nuts, caramel, fruit, wafers, or nougat. It can be molded into countless shapes, from simple squares to elaborate bonbons, and comes in multiple types — milk, dark, white, and ruby chocolate. Chocolate candy is also known for its ability to melt smoothly at body temperature, creating a luxurious mouthfeel that makes it irresistibly satisfying.
Below are some of the most popular types of chocolate candy found around the world.
4.1 Chocolate Bars
Chocolate bars are the most recognizable and widely consumed form of chocolate candy. They are made by blending cocoa, milk, sugar, and flavorings, then molding the mixture into solid rectangular shapes. Many chocolate bars also include nuts, caramel, wafers, or fruit fillings to enhance flavor and texture.
Popular brands such as Hershey’s, Cadbury, and Mars have made chocolate bars a global favorite. Whether simple milk chocolate or filled varieties like Snickers and Twix, these candies are convenient, portable, and perfect for everyday indulgence.
4.2 Truffles
Chocolate truffles are luxurious bite-sized confections known for their rich, creamy centers and smooth chocolate coatings. Traditionally made from a blend of chocolate and heavy cream (ganache), truffles are rolled into round shapes and often dusted with cocoa powder, giving them a rustic, artisanal appearance reminiscent of the rare fungi they’re named after.
Modern variations of truffles may include fillings such as liqueurs, caramel, fruit purées, nuts, or flavored creams. They can also be coated in milk, dark, or white chocolate for different levels of sweetness and intensity. Premium chocolatiers often experiment with unique flavor combinations, creating truffles infused with sea salt, espresso, or exotic spices.
Renowned brands like Lindt, Godiva, and Neuhaus have elevated truffles into symbols of elegance and fine craftsmanship. Whether given as gifts or enjoyed as personal treats, chocolate truffles remain one of the most decadent expressions of confectionery art.
4.3 Bonbons
Bonbons are elegant, bite-sized chocolate candies typically featuring a soft or creamy filling encased in a thin chocolate shell. The term “bonbon,” derived from the French word for “good,” reflects their reputation as small, delightful sweets often associated with luxury and fine confectionery.
The fillings inside bonbons can vary widely, including ganache, fruit jelly, caramel, nut pastes, liqueurs, or fondant. Each piece is usually coated with high-quality milk, dark, or white chocolate, then decorated with a glossy finish, drizzle, or colored design to enhance visual appeal. This combination of textures — a crisp outer shell and a smooth, flavorful center — makes bonbons a favorite among chocolate enthusiasts.
Famous chocolatiers such as La Maison du Chocolat, Godiva, and Leonidas are known for crafting exquisite bonbons with artistic precision. Often presented in decorative boxes, bonbons are popular as gifts during holidays and celebrations, symbolizing sophistication and indulgence in every bite.
5. Sugar-Coated Candy
Sugar-coated candy refers to sweets that have a hard, glossy outer shell made of crystallized sugar, enclosing a soft, chewy, or chocolatey center. The coating not only adds a pleasant crunch but also helps preserve freshness and prevent the candy from sticking together. These colorful candies are visually appealing and often associated with fun, festive occasions.
Sugar-coated candies come in a wide variety of types, including jelly beans, candy-coated chocolates, and nut-based sweets. The coating process, known as panning, involves tumbling candies in a rotating drum while gradually adding layers of syrup and polish to achieve the perfect texture and shine.
Below are some of the most popular varieties of sugar-coated candy enjoyed around the world.
5.1 Jelly Beans
Jelly beans are small, bean-shaped candies with a soft, chewy interior and a shiny sugar shell. Made from sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin, they come in a dazzling array of colors and flavors — from fruity classics to novelty options like popcorn or cinnamon. Their bright appearance makes them especially popular during Easter and festive celebrations.
Iconic brands such as Jelly Belly and The Jelly Bean Factory have transformed these candies into gourmet treats by offering unique flavor assortments. With their bite-sized shape, smooth texture, and vibrant hues, jelly beans continue to be a symbol of playful sweetness and creativity.
5.2 Candy-Coated Chocolates
Candy-coated chocolates feature a smooth, colorful sugar shell surrounding a rich chocolate center. This combination provides both a satisfying crunch and a melt-in-the-mouth experience, making them one of the most popular confectionery items worldwide. The sugar coating prevents the chocolate from melting easily, which makes these candies ideal for packaging, snacking, and sharing.
These candies are typically created through a process called panning, where chocolate pieces are tumbled in rotating drums while thin layers of sugar syrup and color are gradually added. The result is a glossy, durable finish that gives each piece its signature shine and vibrant appearance.
Famous examples include M&M’s, Smarties, and Reese’s Pieces, each offering a slightly different flavor and texture. Whether used for baking, party decorations, or simple enjoyment, candy-coated chocolates perfectly balance fun, flavor, and practicality — making them a universal favorite.
5.3 Candy-Coated Nuts
Candy-coated nuts combine the rich, nutty flavor of almonds, peanuts, or cashews with a crisp, sugary shell for a satisfying contrast of textures. The coating process typically involves roasting the nuts and then layering them with caramelized sugar or colored syrup, resulting in a crunchy exterior that locks in freshness and enhances sweetness.
These treats are available in various styles — from classic Jordan almonds often used at weddings and celebrations, to modern versions featuring chocolate or cinnamon coatings. The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes candy-coated nuts appealing to both candy lovers and snack enthusiasts alike.
Popular varieties include chocolate-covered almonds, sugar-glazed peanuts, and praline-coated pecans. Beyond their taste, candy-coated nuts are valued for their elegant appearance and long shelf life, making them ideal for gifting, events, and festive occasions.
6. Powdered and Compressed Candy
Powdered and compressed candies are unique sweets created by blending sugar, flavoring, and binders, then forming them into fine powders or compact shapes without using heat. These candies often have a light, chalky texture and dissolve quickly in the mouth, delivering a burst of sweetness or tangy flavor. Because they’re easy to mold and package, powdered and compressed candies are especially popular among children and novelty candy fans.
This candy category includes both powder-filled treats and tablet-style sweets, offering a fun, playful eating experience. Below are two common types that define this category.
6.1 Candy Tablets
Candy tablets are small, firm candies made by compressing flavored sugar and starch into flat, disc-shaped pieces. They often have a crisp, chalky texture that melts easily on the tongue. Popular flavors include fruity, minty, or tangy varieties, and they’re frequently shaped into hearts, circles, or novelty forms.
Brands such as Smarties, SweeTARTS, and NECCO Wafers are classic examples of compressed candy. Their portability, bright colors, and long shelf life make them a favorite choice for parties, Halloween treats, and on-the-go snacking.
6.2 Sherbet and Powder Candy
Sherbet and powder candies are light, fizzy sweets made from finely ground sugar, citric acid, and flavoring. Unlike solid candies, they come in powder form and dissolve instantly on the tongue, creating a refreshing, effervescent sensation. This fun, tangy effect makes them especially popular among children and nostalgic candy lovers.
These candies are often packaged in small pouches, tubes, or straws, allowing consumers to pour the powder directly into their mouths. Some varieties, such as Pixy Stix, Fun Dip, and Sherbet Fountains, include dipping sticks or lollipops for an interactive eating experience. The combination of sweetness and mild sourness delivers a lively, playful flavor burst with every taste.
Powdered candies are a staple of vintage candy collections and remain a favorite for their simplicity, affordability, and sensory appeal — offering a quick hit of sweetness with a nostalgic twist.
7. Nougat and Fudge Candy
Nougat and fudge candies represent the creamy, rich side of the confectionery world. Both are soft and smooth, yet they differ in texture and preparation. Nougat is light and airy, made by whipping sugar, honey, and egg whites together with nuts or fruit pieces, while fudge is denser and creamier, created by cooking sugar, butter, and milk until it crystallizes into a soft, melt-in-the-mouth consistency.
These traditional sweets are often enjoyed on their own or used as fillings in chocolate bars and boxed assortments. Their sweetness, combined with nutty or chocolatey notes, makes them timeless favorites across generations.
7.1 Nougat
Nougat is a chewy, aerated candy known for its light texture and nutty sweetness. It’s made by whipping egg whites with boiled sugar or honey syrup, then blending in ingredients such as almonds, pistachios, or dried fruits. The result is a candy that’s both soft and chewy, often enjoyed in thin slices or as part of chocolate-covered bars.
There are two main types of nougat: white nougat (made with egg whites for a fluffy consistency) and brown nougat (made without eggs for a firmer, crunchier texture). Famous varieties include Torrone from Italy and Nougat de Montélimar from France, both celebrated for their delicate balance of sweetness and roasted nut flavor.
7.2 Fudge
Fudge is a rich, creamy candy made by slowly cooking sugar, butter, and milk until it reaches a soft, thick consistency, then beating it to create a smooth, velvety texture. Its dense, melt-in-the-mouth quality makes it a favorite for chocolate lovers and those who enjoy indulgent sweets.
Fudge comes in a variety of flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, peanut butter, maple, and salted caramel. Additional ingredients such as nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips are often mixed in to enhance both flavor and texture. Fudge is typically cut into squares or rectangles and individually wrapped for easy sharing.
Classic brands like Sees Candies and homemade artisanal versions showcase fudge as a timeless treat that combines simplicity with decadence. Its smooth, creamy richness ensures it remains a staple in candy shops, gift boxes, and holiday assortments worldwide.
8. Specialty and Regional Candies
Specialty and regional candies highlight the cultural and geographic diversity of confectionery. These candies are often unique to a specific country or region, featuring local ingredients, traditional recipes, and distinct flavors that reflect the culinary heritage of the area. Exploring these sweets offers a delicious way to experience global cultures through candy.
8.1 Asian Candies
Asian candies often emphasize delicate flavors, innovative textures, and creative packaging. Popular varieties include mochi candies, Pocky sticks, and milk-flavored chews. Japanese, Korean, and Chinese confectioneries are known for combining fruit, tea, or yogurt flavors with soft, chewy, or melt-in-the-mouth textures. Many Asian candies also feature visually appealing designs and seasonal editions, making them popular as gifts or collectibles.
8.2 European Candies
European candies are celebrated for their quality ingredients and craftsmanship. Classic examples include Belgian pralines, Swiss chocolate bars, Italian torrone, and German marzipan. These candies often emphasize natural flavors, such as nuts, fruits, and high-quality chocolate, and are frequently associated with holidays, festivals, and artisanal production methods.
8.3 American Classics
American candies are diverse, colorful, and often nostalgic, reflecting both innovation and mass production. Iconic treats include Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Hershey’s chocolate bars, candy corn, and Twizzlers. Many American candies focus on bold flavors, sweet combinations, and convenience packaging, making them a staple of celebrations like Halloween, Christmas, and Independence Day.
Specialty and regional candies showcase the global variety of sweets, offering a window into the tastes, traditions, and creativity of different cultures. Sampling these candies allows enthusiasts to enjoy unique flavors that can’t always be found in mainstream confectionery.
Conclusion
Candy comes in an incredible variety of types, textures, and flavors — from hard and soft candies to chewy, chocolate, sugar-coated, powdered, and fudge treats. Each type offers a unique sensory experience, whether it’s the slow-melting sweetness of hard candy, the creamy richness of chocolate, or the playful fizz of powder candy. Exploring specialty and regional candies further highlights the global creativity and cultural diversity in confectionery.
For businesses and confectionery enthusiasts looking to produce high-quality candies, Junyu is a leading Chinese candy production line manufacturer, offering advanced equipment and complete solutions for various types of candy. With Junyu’s expertise, manufacturers can achieve stable quality, efficient production, and innovative candy designs, making it easier to bring sweet creations to the global market.
