Last updated 4 months ago | Originally Published: November 7, 2023

Learn Why Jolly Rancher Is America’s Favorite Hard Candy Brand

In today’s post, we’re peeling back the wrapper to reveal everything you’ve ever wanted to know about Jolly Rancher Candy! Imagine a resource so comprehensive; it’s like having a candy encyclopedia at your fingertips. That’s what we aim for in every post we publish! 

With half a century of candy expertise, we’re not just another candy store; we’re your go-to source for candy wisdom. From the origins of Jolly Rancher to the latest flavors hitting the shelves, we’ve got it all covered. 

So, if you’ve ever wondered about the story behind your favorite hard candy or how to get your hands on limited-edition flavors, you’re in the right place. We invite you to engage with us—share your candy stories, suggestions, or even corrections in the comments below. 

Your input enriches our community, and we’ll circle back to this at the end of the post. Let’s make this a sweet experience for everyone!

The History of Jolly Rancher

In 1949, Bill and Dorothy Harmsen set out to sweeten the lives of the residents of Golden, Colorado. By doing so, they opened an ice cream shop called ‘Jolly Rancher,’ capturing the spirit of the West in both name and flavor. 

But as the seasons changed, so did consumer preferences. Ice cream sales took a sharp dip during the colder months, prompting the Harmsens to think creatively.

Their solution? Hard candies. This wasn’t just a stopgap; it was a strategic pivot that would redefine the Jolly Rancher brand forever. The candies quickly gained popularity, becoming a local favorite that eventually overshadowed the ice cream. 

The Harmsens capitalized on this success by expanding distribution, first to local stores and then to larger retail outlets across the state and beyond.

The brand reached a significant milestone in 1996 when The Hershey Company acquired it. This acquisition did more than change the brand’s ownership; it expanded its reach and diversified its product offerings. 

Under Hershey’s stewardship, Jolly Rancher introduced new flavors and formats, from gummies to lollipops, solidifying its reputation as a versatile and beloved candy brand.

Today, Jolly Rancher stands as a testament to American ingenuity and the power of adaptability. From its humble beginnings in a small Colorado town to its current status as a national favorite, the brand has navigated challenges and seized opportunities, all while keeping America’s sweet tooth satisfied.

The Making of Jolly Rancher Candy

First and foremost, creating Jolly Rancher candies involves a blend of culinary skill and scientific precision. 

Starting with core ingredients like corn syrup for structure, sugar for sweetness, and a mix of natural and artificial flavorings for a distinct taste, the process is carefully calibrated. Food colorings are also added to give each candy its vibrant hue.

The manufacturing process begins with the boiling of corn syrup and sugar to form a syrupy base. This mixture is heated to a specific temperature to achieve the desired consistency. 

Once the boiling stage is complete, the mixture is cooled slightly before flavorings and colorings are added. Each flavor has its own unique recipe and requires precise timing for the addition of these elements.

Malic acid plays a dual role in the making of Jolly Rancher candies. First, it acts as a preservative, extending the shelf life of the product. Second, it enhances the flavor profile, adding a tangy note that complements the sweetness of the candy.

From the initial boiling of the syrup to the final packaging, each step is designed to produce a candy that is not only flavorful but also has a long shelf life. 

This intricate process ensures that Jolly Rancher candies continue to be a favorite, offering the same great taste and quality that consumers have come to expect. 

Jolly Rancher Hard Candy Flavors

When it comes to Jolly Rancher, the hard candies are the cornerstone of the brand. Originating as a solution to year-round sales, these candies have become synonymous with long-lasting flavor and vibrant colors. Available in a range of flavors and package sizes, they offer something for everyone. All prices listed below are average, oftentimes a lot less. 

From the classic Assorted variety to specialized flavors like Tropical and Awesome Reds, this section provides a detailed look at each type of Jolly Rancher hard candy flavor that you can buy here at Candy Retailer.

Jolly Rancher Assorted

This product offers a mix of classic flavors in a 1lb bag, with an average price of $5.79. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy a variety of tastes in one package.

Jolly Rancher Hard Candy Assorted

Available in a larger 3lb or 5lb bag, this product is priced at $14.69 and $18.29, respectively. It provides the same assortment of classic flavors but in a larger quantity, suitable for events or long-term enjoyment. Click the image or button below for the 3lb bag, or click this link for the 5lb bag.

Jolly Rancher Original

The Original 7oz bag is priced at $4.29 and features the classic flavors that made Jolly Rancher a household name.

Jolly Rancher Tropical

This 6.5oz bag, priced at $4.29, offers a unique set of tropical flavors, providing a different twist on the classic Jolly Rancher taste profile.

Jolly Rancher Apple

Offered in a 160ct package for $10.09, this product focuses solely on the popular apple flavor, providing a consistent taste experience.

Jolly Rancher Watermelon

Similar to the Apple variant, this product is available in a 160ct package and is priced at $11.19. It offers the singular flavor of watermelon for fans of this particular taste.

Jolly Rancher Awesome Reds

Priced at $4.29 for a 6.5oz bag, Awesome Reds features a selection of red fruit flavors, including cherry and strawberry, among others.

Jolly Rancher Apple Stix

Available in a 36ct package for $9.39, Apple Stix is elongated hard candies that offer the same apple flavor in a different form factor.

Jolly Rancher Cherry Stix

Also available in a 36ct package, priced at $8.49, Cherry Stix provides the cherry flavor in an elongated shape, offering a different way to enjoy this popular flavor.

Jolly Rancher Lollipops

Jolly Rancher’s lollipop line offers a twist on their classic hard candies by adding the convenience of a stick. These lollipops come in a variety of flavors and special editions, making them a popular choice for holidays and events. Whether you’re interested in the Assorted Lolli Pops or the unique Lollipop Hearts Exchange, each product offers its own set of features that cater to different preferences.

Jolly Rancher Assorted Lolli Pops

This product comes in a 50ct Box, priced at $11.99. It’s a compilation of Jolly Rancher’s classic flavors presented in lollipop form. The 50-count box makes it a suitable option for parties or for those who enjoy having a stash of their favorite flavors at hand.

Jolly Rancher Assorted Lollipop Hearts Exchange

Priced at $6.39 for a 9.2oz Box, this product is designed for special occasions like Valentine’s Day. It features heart-shaped lollipops in an assortment of flavors, making it a festive choice for gift-giving or holiday celebrations.

Jolly Rancher Gummies

The gummy line from Jolly Rancher brings a softer texture to the brand’s signature flavors. 

These chewy treats come in a variety of themes, from the classic to the sour, and even a “Misfits” version that combines two flavors in one. Each type offers a unique experience, catering to those who prefer a chewable alternative to hard candies.

Jolly Rancher Gummies

Available in a 3.5oz Box for $2.49, these gummies offer the classic Jolly Rancher flavors in a chewy format. It’s a different way to enjoy the tastes you love without the long-lasting commitment of a hard candy.

Jolly Rancher Gummies Sour

Priced at $2.49 for a 3.5oz Box or $4.29 for a 6.5oz Peg Bag, these gummies bring a tangy twist to the traditional Jolly Rancher flavors. The sour coating adds an extra layer of excitement to each bite.

Jolly Rancher Gummies Sour Lemonade Stand

This 6.5oz Bag is priced at $4.29 and focuses on lemonade-inspired flavors with a sour kick. It’s a refreshing take on the gummy line, perfect for those who enjoy a tart edge to their sweets.

Jolly Rancher Gummies Very Berry

Offered in a 5oz Bag for $4.29, this product concentrates on berry flavors like strawberry and blueberry. It’s a fruity escape for those who prefer their gummies with a berry-centric focus.

Jolly Rancher Gummies Misfits

Available for $3.19 in a 5oz package, Misfits combine two flavors in one gummy. It’s a playful option for those who enjoy a bit of unpredictability in their snacking experience.

Jolly Rancher Chewy Candies

Jolly Rancher’s chewy candies offer a different texture and eating experience compared to their hard candies and gummies. 

These options are perfect for those who enjoy a more malleable chew without sacrificing the iconic flavors that Jolly Rancher is known for. From the Awesome Twosome Bites to the King Size Misfits, each product in this category has its own unique appeal.

Jolly Rancher Awesome Twosome Bites

Priced at $4.29 for a 6.5oz Bag, Awesome Twosome Bites feature two complementary flavors in one chewy bite. It’s a harmonious blend that offers a dual-flavor experience, making each bite twice as interesting.

Jolly Rancher Fruit Chews

Available in a 12ct box for $15.89, Fruit Chews are individually wrapped and offer a softer, chewier alternative to the classic hard candies. They come in an assortment of fruit flavors, providing a varied taste experience in a more tender form.

Jolly Rancher Misfits King Size

This product comes in a 12ct Box priced at $23.39 and takes the concept of the Gummies Misfits to a larger scale. Each King Size pack contains chewy candies that combine two different flavors, adding an element of surprise to each bite.  

Specialty Jolly Rancher Candy

In addition to hard candies, lollipops, gummies, and chewy candies, Jolly Rancher also offers specialty items that are often seasonal or event-specific. 

These unique products, such as Assorted Jelly Beans and Jelly Hearts, provide a different way to enjoy Jolly Rancher flavors, often aligning with holidays or special occasions.

Jolly Rancher Assorted Jelly Beans

Available in a 14oz Bag for $5.29, these Assorted Jelly Beans bring the classic Jolly Rancher flavors into a jelly bean format. They’re a popular choice for seasonal events like Easter, offering a twist on a traditional candy type.

Jolly Rancher Jelly Hearts

Priced at $5.19 for an 11oz package, Jelly Hearts are heart-shaped jelly candies that are often available around Valentine’s Day. They offer a softer, jelly-like texture and come in a variety of fruit flavors, making them a romantic and flavorful option for the holiday.

Unique Uses of Jolly Rancher

Jolly Rancher candies are versatile treats that extend beyond simple snacking. They can be ingeniously used in various recipes and crafts, offering a fun twist to traditional dishes and activities. Below, we explore some unique ways to use Jolly Rancher candies, including an exclusive recipe that you won’t find anywhere else online.

Stained Glass Cookies

Create eye-catching cookies by using Jolly Rancher candies as the “glass” filling. This adds vibrant colors and a burst of flavor to your regular sugar cookies.

Candied Grapes

Transform fresh grapes into a delightful snack by coating them with melted Jolly Rancher candies. This two-ingredient recipe is both simple and delicious.

Exclusive Recipe: Jolly Rancher Fruit Pops

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why this is a standout creation. Jolly Rancher Fruit Pops combine the best of both worlds: the iconic flavors of Jolly Rancher candies and the natural sweetness of fresh fruits. 

These popsicles aren’t only visually appealing with their colorful layers but also offer a multi-textured eating experience. The crushed Jolly Rancher pieces provide a crunchy contrast to the soft, frozen fruit slices, making each bite a delightful surprise.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 10 Jolly Rancher candies (assorted flavors)
• Fresh fruit slices (e.g., strawberries, kiwi, and blueberries)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat water and sugar over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Unwrap Jolly Rancher candies and place them in a ziplock bag. Crush them into small pieces using a rolling pin.

3. Distribute the crushed Jolly Rancher pieces evenly into popsicle molds.

4. Add slices of fresh fruit into each mold.

5. Pour the sugar-water mixture into the molds, filling them up to the top.

6. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.

7. To serve, run warm water over the molds to loosen the popsicles, and enjoy!

In brief, Jolly Rancher candies offer a versatile canvas for culinary creativity. From cookies to candied fruits and even our exclusive Fruit Pops, the possibilities are both exciting and endless. 

These ideas are perfect for family activities, parties, or simply when you’re in the mood for something a little different. With Jolly Rancher candies, you’re limited only by your imagination.

Top 8 FAQs About Jolly Rancher Candy

When it comes to Jolly Rancher Candy, there are several questions that consumers often ask. From nutritional content to dietary restrictions, we’ve gathered the top 8 frequently asked questions to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information.

1. How Many Calories Are in a Jolly Rancher?

A single piece of Jolly Rancher Hard Candy contains 23 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie treat.

2. How Much Sugar is in Jolly Rancher Candy?

If you consume three pieces of Jolly Rancher hard candies, you’ll be taking in 11 grams of sugar.

3. Is Jolly Rancher Halal?

While the hard candy version of Jolly Rancher may seem to have Halal-friendly ingredients, it’s important to note that it lacks Halal certification. The gummies and chews are also not Halal.

4. Is Jolly Rancher Kosher?

Jolly Rancher candies do not carry the OU symbol on their packaging, indicating that they are not Kosher-certified.

5. Are Jolly Rancher Chews Gluten-Free?

Although some sources may suggest otherwise, Hershey, the manufacturer of Jolly Rancher, states that the chews have not met FDA standards for gluten-free labeling.

6. Are Jolly Rancher Gummies Vegan?

None of the Jolly Rancher candies, including the gummies, meet vegan criteria.

7. Are Jolly Rancher Chews Vegan?

Just like the gummies, the chews also fall short of vegan standards.

8. Do Jolly Rancher Gummies Have Gelatin?

Yes, they do contain gelatin. According to Hershey, the gelatin used is derived from horse hooves.

Our Final Thoughts About Jolly Rancher Candy

In closing, we’ve explored various aspects of Jolly Rancher candies, from their history and manufacturing process to the different types of products and their nutritional information. 

We’ve also shared some unique ways to enjoy these candies and answered some of the most frequently asked questions about them. Our goal has been to provide you with accurate and useful information about Jolly Rancher products. 

We invite you to share your thoughts or any additional questions you may have in the comments below. Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post.