Last updated 4 hours ago | Originally Published: December 22, 2024
Caramel candy bars rank among the most popular candies in the United States! Prized for their smooth, sweet, buttery signature flavors, they pair well with ingredients like chocolate, nuts, nougat, or crispy wafers, which appeal to millions of Americans. In this article, we’ve highlighted the best caramel candy bars in the US, focusing on factors like consumer demand, customer reviews, and sales performance. So, if you want to try something new or rediscover an old favorite, this list is the best place to begin, as we left nothing out. If you’d like to take it a step further, check out our list of the top 37 best candy bars ever made!
1. Snickers
Created by Mars, Incorporated in 1930, this candy bar combines nougat, caramel, and roasted peanuts coated in milk chocolate. It quickly became one of the most popular candy bars worldwide and has remained a leading product in the confectionery market. Snickers is recognized for its layered construction and association with hunger-satisfying branding campaigns. Variants include miniatures, seasonal versions, and spin-offs like Snickers ice cream bars, extending its presence across different markets. Its long-standing success reflects its role as a versatile and widely consumed product.
2. Milky Way
Released by Mars, Incorporated in 1923, this candy bar introduced nougat as a primary component, layered with caramel and covered in milk chocolate. Its name references a malted milkshake that was popular during its creation rather than the galaxy. Milky Way is a pioneering product combining nougat with chocolate and caramel in a single bar. Variants include Milky Way Midnight, which features dark chocolate and vanilla nougat. The product remains consistent in the candy market, demonstrating its enduring appeal through decades of sales.
3. Twix
Launched by Mars, Incorporated in 1967, Twix has a biscuit base topped with caramel and coated in milk chocolate. It is packaged as two individual bars, emphasizing its shareable nature. Initially introduced in the United Kingdom as “Raider,” the name was changed to Twix for global markets. Twix has expanded its lineup with variations like Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, and seasonal flavors. Combining crunchy biscuits and smooth caramel has made Twix a key player in the caramel candy bar category.
4. 100 Grand
Introduced by Nestlé in 1966, the 100 Grand Bar features a chewy caramel core surrounded by crisped rice and covered in milk chocolate and is now made by Ferrara Candy Company. Known initially as the “$100,000 Bar,” the name highlights its perceived luxurious quality, standing out for its textural contrast between the crunchy rice coating and soft caramel interior. While often marketed individually, 100 Grand is also popular in fun-size packaging, especially during holidays. The candy bar’s enduring presence reflects its distinct composition and appeal among caramel-based confections.
5. PayDay
Introduced by Frank Martoccio in 1932 and later acquired by The Hershey Company, PayDay features a nougat-like caramel center enrobed in a coating of salted peanuts. Unlike most candy bars, it does not contain a chocolate layer, which sets it apart in the confectionery market. Known for its sweet and salty combination, PayDay has inspired variations, including a chocolate-coated version introduced in recent years. The candy bar’s straightforward ingredient list and distinctive taste have contributed to its steady popularity over the decades.
6. Baby Ruth
Created in 1921 by the Curtiss Candy Company, Baby Ruth combines a nougat base, caramel, and roasted peanuts coated in milk chocolate. Named after President Grover Cleveland’s daughter Ruth, the candy bar became a widely recognized product. Ownership has changed over the years, with Ferrara Candy Company currently managing its production. Baby Ruth is noted for its dense texture and multi-layered composition. Variations, including fun-size options, have allowed the product to maintain a strong presence in the candy market for over a century.
7. Caramello
Introduced by Cadbury, Caramello features a creamy caramel filling encased in smooth milk chocolate. The bar is segmented into individual squares, making it easy to break apart and share. Popular for its soft texture and rich caramel flavor, Caramello has become a staple in Cadbury’s product lineup. The Hershey Company distributes it in the United States under license from Cadbury. The combination of silky caramel and chocolate has made it a notable choice among candy bars featuring caramel as a key ingredient.
8. Rolo
First produced in 1937 by Mackintosh in the United Kingdom, Rolo consists of bite-sized milk chocolate cups filled with soft caramel. Currently manufactured by Nestlé outside the United States and licensed by The Hershey Company in the US, Rolo is recognized for its unique shape and portability. Packaged in a roll, the candy is often associated with sharing. Various limited-edition flavors and formats have been introduced over the years, reinforcing its popularity as a caramel-centric confection.
9. Zero Bar
Introduced in 1920 by the Hollywood Brands Company, Zero Bar features a nougat center flavored with peanut, almond, and caramel, coated in white fudge. The candy bar’s name likely reflects its original icy-white appearance, distinguishing it from other chocolate-covered confections. Now produced by The Hershey Company, Zero Bar remains unique due to its white fudge exterior. Over the decades, it has gained a niche following for its distinct combination of flavors and departure from traditional chocolate coatings.
10. Whatchamacallit
Launched by The Hershey Company in 1978, Whatchamacallit combines a crisp peanut-flavored rice center with a caramel layer, all covered in milk chocolate. The candy bar’s unusual name originated as a playful marketing choice to emphasize its distinctiveness. Over the years, Hershey has introduced variations, including limited-edition flavors and recipe adjustments. Known for its textured composition and blend of sweet and nutty elements, Whatchamacallit has maintained a dedicated customer base within the caramel and chocolate candy segment.
11. Zagnut
Introduced in 1930 by the D. L. Clark Company, Zagnut is a candy bar that combines a crunchy peanut butter center with a toasted coconut coating. Unlike most candy bars, it does not contain chocolate, setting it apart in the confectionery market. Now produced by The Hershey Company, Zagnut has maintained a niche presence, often appealing to those seeking a distinctive texture and flavor. Its unique combination of ingredients has ensured its continued availability despite changes in consumer trends.
12. Goo Goo Cluster
Created in 1912 by the Standard Candy Company in Nashville, Tennessee, Goo Goo Cluster was the first combination candy bar to include multiple ingredients. It features a mix of caramel, marshmallow nougat, roasted peanuts, and milk chocolate. Widely regarded as a Southern confectionery icon, Goo Goo Cluster is sold in its original form as well as in variations like pecan and peanut butter flavors. The candy’s innovative composition and enduring local popularity have cemented its status as a historic treat in the US.
13. Goetze’s Caramel Creams
First introduced in 1918 by the Goetze family in Baltimore, Maryland, Caramel Creams consist of a chewy caramel outer ring filled with a sweet, creamy center. Also known as “Bulls-Eyes,” these candies are distinct for their soft texture and unique flavors. Still manufactured by Goetze’s Candy Company, the product is available in original caramel and flavors such as chocolate and strawberry. The long-standing popularity of Caramel Creams reflects their nostalgic appeal and consistent presence in the US candy market.
What’s Your Favorite Caramel Candy Bar?
We’ve highlighted the top caramel candy bars in the United States, but now it’s your turn to share your favorites! Tell us about the brands you love, your go-to choices, or special memories connected to these treats. Your suggestions could inspire others to discover something new or rediscover a long-lost favorite. Join the conversation and let your favorite caramel candy bar take the spotlight! For your participation, we’ll send you a 10% discount code that you can use on anything here in our store!
About Candy Retailer
Based in Newport, Kentucky, Candy Retailer is a leading destination for candy lovers, offering thousands of products to suit every preference. Our extensive inventory includes caramel candy bars, bulk sweets, holiday treats, retro favorites, and more from top brands like Hershey’s, Ferrara, and Jelly Belly. Stored in a temperature-controlled facility to maintain freshness, every item is carefully curated to meet the highest quality standards. With competitive pricing and convenient online shopping, we ensure your favorite candies arrive in perfect condition. Follow us on Facebook for the latest deals and updates!
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