Last updated 1 month ago | Originally Published: October 5, 2024

Despite the economic hardship of the Great Depression, the 1930s gave rise to some of the most beloved candy brands still available today. Candy provided an affordable escape during difficult times, offering small moments of joy when luxuries were rare. Many iconic confections were launched during this period, designed to be delicious and inexpensive. This article highlights the best 1930s candies that have stood the test of time, bringing a taste of history and resilience to today’s shelves. Read on to discover and enjoy the best of 1930s candy, even during some of the darkest days in American history. So, without further delay, here are the best candy brands from the 30s, all of which are still relevant today! 

Challenge: If you can think of only one brand of 1930s candy we didn’t list, let us know in the comments. If it’s confirmed to be correct, we’ll give you all the credit, add the brand to our list, and send you a 10% discount code that you can use for anything in our store!

Candy by Decades:

Snickers (1930)

Introduced by Mars, Incorporated in 1930, Snickers was named after the Mars family’s beloved horse. The bar combines nougat, caramel, and peanuts coated in milk chocolate, offering a satisfying balance of sweet and salty. It quickly became one of the most popular candy bars worldwide and remains a top-selling brand today. Snickers continues to be enjoyed by millions, with various flavors and product lines expanding its reach globally. Click here to learn more about Snickers, and order yours today!

3 Musketeers (1932)

Launched in 1932 by Mars, Incorporated, 3 Musketeers originally featured three different flavored nougats—vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry—in one package, which inspired its name. During World War II, the candy was simplified to just the chocolate nougat bar we know today. Despite the change, 3 Musketeers became famous for its light, whipped texture and continues to be a favorite across the U.S. Learn more about 3 Musketeers and get yours here!

Atkinson’s Candy (1932)

Founded in 1932 by B.E. Atkinson in Lufkin, Texas, Atkinson Candy Company started with simple confections and grew into a well-known brand famous for products like Chick-O-Stick and Peanut Butter Bars. Atkinson’s commitment to quality and using all-natural ingredients helped it become a household name. The company continues to produce its original products while expanding its lineup with sugar-free and vegan options. Click here to explore more about Atkinson’s Candy and order today!

Mentos (1932)

Mentos were introduced in 1932 by the Van Melle company in the Netherlands as a peppermint-flavored chewy candy. Over the decades, Mentos expanded into various flavors and formats, including fruit-flavored chewy candies and breath mints. Today, Mentos are sold in more than 130 countries and are well-known for their refreshing taste and distinctive chewy texture. Find out more about Mentos and where to buy them today by clicking here!

Red Hots (1932)

Red Hots were introduced in 1932 by the Ferrara Candy Company. These small, cinnamon-flavored candies, known for their intense heat and vibrant red color, quickly became a popular spicy treat. Red Hots are still produced and enjoyed by those who love bold, fiery flavors. Click here to learn more about Red Hots and buy a pack today!

PayDay (1932)

Introduced in 1932 by the Hollywood Candy Company, PayDay features a caramel core rolled in salted peanuts, offering a salty-sweet flavor profile. Unlike most candy bars of the time, PayDay did not use chocolate, which helped set it apart in the market. Today, PayDay is produced by The Hershey Company and continues to be a favorite snack for peanut lovers. Discover more about PayDay and order one today!

Kit Kat (1935)

Kit Kat was introduced in 1935 by Rowntree’s of York, England, under the name “Rowntree’s Chocolate Crisp.” The bar became known as Kit Kat in 1937 and grew popular due to its unique combination of crispy wafer layers covered in milk chocolate. Now owned by Nestlé (except in the U.S., where Hershey produces it), Kit Kat is one of the world’s most recognizable candy bars. Click here to explore Kit Kat more and get yours today!

Dove Chocolate (1939)

Dove Chocolate was first introduced in 1939 by Leo Stefanos in Chicago, initially as a premium ice cream bar. The brand expanded into chocolate bars and was later acquired by Mars, Incorporated. Known for its smooth, creamy texture, Dove Chocolate offers a high-quality experience in both dark and milk chocolate varieties. Click here to discover more about Dove Chocolate and enjoy a taste today!

Sconza Candy (1939)

Founded in 1939 by Vincenzo Sconza, Sconza Candy started as a small family business making chocolate and candy-coated nuts. Based in California, the company has become a prominent confectioner known for its high-quality treats, including Jordan almonds and other candy-coated goods. Sconza continues to be family-owned, maintaining its tradition of quality for over 80 years. Click here to learn more about Sconza Candy and shop today!

About Candy Retailer

Candy Retailer is an American, family-owned online candy store that proudly offers a wide selection of modern and retro confections. Our love for sweets spans decades, with a special focus on classic 1930s candy that brought joy during the Great Depression, such as Snickers, 3 Musketeers, and PayDay. Located in Newport, Kentucky, we ensure freshness with our state-of-the-art temperature-controlled facility. Whether you’re looking to revisit nostalgic favorites or try something new, Candy Retailer has something for everyone. Explore our collection today and enjoy the timeless candy brands of the 1930s! You can also view all our other candy-by-decade articles here.

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