Candy corn

What is Candy corn?

Candy corn is a small, cone-shaped sweet with three distinct colored bands, usually yellow, orange, and white, mimicking the look of a kernel of corn. Its texture is firm but slightly chewy, with a glossy finish from a coating of confectioner's glaze. The flavor is mild and sweet, with notes of vanilla and honey. It is most often seen in the fall, especially around Halloween, and is a familiar sight in North American candy bowls during this season.

Where does Candy corn come from?

Candy corn was first made in the United States in the late 1800s. George Renninger, working at Wunderle Candy Company, is credited with creating it in the 1880s, and the company began producing it in 1888. The Goelitz Confectionery Company, later known as Jelly Belly, started making it in 1898. Originally called 'Chicken Feed', it was one of several farm-themed candies popular with rural customers at the time. Its tri-color design helped it stand out among other sweets shaped like vegetables and plants.

How is Candy corn made?

The process for making candy corn starts by heating sugar and corn syrup with water to form a thick mixture. Fondant is added for a smooth texture, and marshmallow gives a softer bite. The mixture is poured into kernel-shaped molds in three stages, each with a different color. Once set, the candies are coated with a shiny glaze for a smooth finish. While the basic method remains similar to the original, machines now handle most of the work.

How and when is Candy corn eaten?

Candy corn is most often eaten as a snack during the fall, especially in the weeks leading up to Halloween. It is commonly handed out to trick-or-treaters, placed in bowls at parties, or used as decoration for baked goods. Although it was once available year-round, today it is closely tied to autumn and festive occasions. Some people enjoy it on its own, while others use it to decorate cakes and cookies.

Kinds of Candy corn

Several versions of candy corn appear throughout the year. 'Harvest corn' includes cocoa powder for a chocolate-colored base and is popular at Thanksgiving. Other holiday-themed varieties swap the classic colors for red and green at Christmas, pink and red at Valentine's Day, or blue, white, and red for Independence Day. There are also flavors like caramel apple, s'mores, and even savory-inspired mixes. Candy corn has inspired similar flavors in other snacks and candies.

What Candy corn means

Candy corn is a symbol of Halloween in the United States, with most sales happening in October. The National Confectioners Association marks October 30 as National Candy Corn Day. Its bright colors and seasonal ties make it a familiar part of autumn celebrations. The candy is known for sparking strong opinions, with some people loving it and others avoiding it. Brach's is the largest producer, making billions of pieces each year.

When Candy corn is on the table

Questions people ask about Candy corn

Good reading and sources

• Candy Corn Hasn't Changed Since the 19th CenturySmithsonian Magazine, Article

• Candy corn on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data