As an expert in the confectionery industry, I have had the pleasure of exploring the sweet shops of Philadelphia, PA and discovering the most popular candies that fly off the shelves. From traditional favorites to unique and modern creations, Philadelphia's sweet shops offer a wide variety of treats for every palate. Philadelphia, also known as the City of Brotherly Love, has a rich history when it comes to candy. In the early 1800s, Philadelphia was home to some of the first candy makers in America. The city's location along the Delaware River made it a prime location for importing sugar and other ingredients needed for candy making. One of the most iconic candies to come out of Philadelphia is the Butterfinger.
In 1923, a young candy maker named Otto Schnering created this crispy peanut butter and chocolate bar in his kitchen in Chicago. However, it wasn't until 1932 that Schnering moved his company to Philadelphia and began mass producing Butterfingers.
The Most Popular Candies Sold at Sweet Shops in Philadelphia
Now, let's take a look at the most popular candies sold at sweet shops in Philadelphia. After conducting extensive research and speaking with local shop owners, I have compiled a list of the top three treats that are consistently flying off the shelves.1.Peanut Chews
First on our list is a classic Philadelphia treat - Peanut Chews. These bite-sized candies were first created in 1917 by Goldenberg's Peanut Chews Company, which was founded in Philadelphia.The original recipe consisted of roasted peanuts and molasses covered in dark chocolate, making for a sweet and salty combination that is hard to resist. Today, Peanut Chews are still made in Philadelphia and are a staple in many sweet shops throughout the city. They have even expanded their flavors to include milk chocolate and white chocolate varieties, but the original dark chocolate remains the most popular.
2.Salt Water Taffy
Next up on our list is a classic boardwalk treat that has made its way into Philadelphia's sweet shops - Salt Water Taffy. This chewy candy was first created in Atlantic City, New Jersey in the late 1800s, but it has become a popular treat in Philadelphia as well. Salt Water Taffy comes in a variety of flavors, from traditional fruit flavors to more unique options like cotton candy and root beer. Many sweet shops in Philadelphia offer a mix-and-match option, allowing customers to create their own custom bag of taffy.3.Chocolate Covered Pretzels
Last but certainly not least on our list is another classic Philadelphia treat - Chocolate Covered Pretzels.These salty and sweet treats have been a staple in the city for decades and can be found in almost every sweet shop. The combination of crunchy pretzels and creamy chocolate is irresistible, making these treats a fan favorite. Some sweet shops even offer unique variations, such as white chocolate or peanut butter covered pretzels.
The Rise of Unique and Modern Candies
While traditional candies like Peanut Chews and Salt Water Taffy remain popular in Philadelphia's sweet shops, there has been a rise in unique and modern candies in recent years. These new treats offer a twist on classic flavors and are often made with high-quality, natural ingredients. One example of this is Maple Bacon Lollipops, which can be found in several sweet shops throughout Philadelphia. These lollipops combine the smoky and savory flavor of bacon with the sweetness of maple syrup, creating a unique and delicious treat. Another popular modern candy is Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels.These rich and indulgent caramels are made with high-quality dark chocolate and sprinkled with sea salt, creating a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
