Candy Types: Butterscotch, Bonbons, & More

Butterscotch, bonbons, bubble gum, and licorice are types of candy. These candies are a source of joy for kids and adults. Some candy that starts with ‘B’ is well-known for its unique flavors. Others are known for the way they are chewed. Butterscotch is a brittle, hard candy. Bonbons are small and multi-layered. Bubble gum has the property of elasticity. Licorice comes in a chewy form.

Ever wondered about the sweetest things that start with the letter “B”? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we’re about to embark on a delectable journey through the candy kingdom, exploring all the sugary sensations that begin with “B”! From classic bars to delightful brittles, the world of “B” candies is a bonanza of flavors and fun.

Think about it: how often do you reach for a candy that starts with “B”? Probably more than you realize! These treats aren’t just tasty; they’re often deeply ingrained in our childhood memories and cultural celebrations. Today, we’re diving headfirst into this delicious domain to uncover the most popular, interesting, and downright irresistible “B” candies out there.

Now, before we get buried in sweetness, let’s clarify what makes a candy worthy of our “B” list. We’re focusing on candies with high relevance and popularity – the ones you’re most likely to find on store shelves or reminisce about with friends. So, get ready to drool as we tease some of the goodies we’ll be exploring. Prepare yourself for the flaky, peanut buttery goodness of Butterfinger, the chewy delight of Bit-O-Honey, and the bubbly fun of good old Bubble Gum.

Butterfinger: The Crispy, Crunchy Classic

Let’s kick things off with a candy that’s got personality: the Butterfinger. Imagine layers of crispy, flaky peanut butter—not your smooth, creamy kind, but the kind that crunches between your teeth—all wrapped up in a chocolatey coating. It’s a texture explosion in every bite! The Butterfinger wasn’t always a household name. Created by Otto Schnering in 1923, it quickly rose to fame thanks to some clever marketing, including a sponsorship deal with the Simpsons. Who can forget Bart Simpson’s iconic “Nobody better lay a finger on my Butterfinger!” tagline? The Butterfinger has seen its share of changes, from ownership shifts to recipe tweaks, but it’s remained a beloved candy for generations, proving that sometimes, the classics are truly the best.

Baby Ruth: Peanuts, Caramel, and Nougat Delight

Next up, we’re diving into the Baby Ruth bar, a delightful mix of peanuts, chewy caramel, and soft nougat, all drenched in chocolate. This candy bar is a heavyweight contender in the candy aisle. The origin of its name is shrouded in a bit of mystery. Some say it was named after President Grover Cleveland’s daughter, Ruth, while others claim it was cleverly marketed to capitalize on the fame of baseball legend Babe Ruth—without having to pay royalties! Regardless, the Baby Ruth has secured its spot in candy history. How does it stack up against its rivals? Think of it as the older, wiser sibling to Snickers. While Snickers boasts a similar combination of nuts, caramel, and nougat, the Baby Ruth has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart.

Bit-O-Honey: A Chewy, Honey-Almond Treat

Prepare for a candy that’s uniquely delicious: the Bit-O-Honey. If you’re a fan of chewy treats with a hint of sweetness, this one’s for you. It’s packed with almond bits and infused with the unmistakable flavor of honey. The Bit-O-Honey first appeared in 1924 and has remained a nostalgic favorite ever since. While its recipe has seen some subtle tweaks over the years, its core appeal remains the same: that chewy, honey-almond goodness that keeps you coming back for more. You’ll often find it enjoyed by a wide range of people, from kids discovering it for the first time to adults reliving fond memories of their childhood.

Boston Baked Beans: A Savory-Sweet Surprise

Get ready for a candy that’s a little out there: the Boston Baked Beans. These aren’t your typical beans; they’re actually candy-coated peanuts, designed to resemble the famous Boston baked beans dish. It’s a quirky treat with a sweet and nutty flavor. The Boston Baked Beans have a history that’s as rich as the city they’re named after. They’ve been around for generations, offering a unique candy experience that stands out from the crowd. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but its quirky charm has made it a beloved novelty candy.

Bubble Gum: Blowing Away the Competition

No candy journey is complete without a stop at bubble gum. From its accidental invention to its modern formulations, bubble gum has a rich and bubbly history. This section traces bubble gum’s evolution, discussing different types and flavors available. From classic pink bubble gum to fruity variations, the options are endless. Brands like Bubble Yum, Dubble Bubble, and Bazooka have all contributed to the bubble gum legacy, each offering its unique twist on this chewy treat. Of course, we can’t forget the cultural phenomenon of bubble gum blowing contests. Who hasn’t tried to blow the biggest bubble, aiming to outdo their friends and family?

Bonkers!: A Burst of Fruity Fun

Let’s take a trip down memory lane with Bonkers!, the fruit-flavored chewy candy squares that were a burst of fruity fun in every bite. Each square was packed with intense flavor, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Alas, Bonkers! is no longer in production, its rise and fall in popularity is a tale of changing tastes and market dynamics. Although it’s no longer on store shelves, the memories of Bonkers! live on in the hearts of those who enjoyed them. If you have any fond memories of Bonkers!, feel free to share them!

Big Hunk: A Chewy, Peanutty Delight

Last but not least, we have the Big Hunk, a candy bar that truly lives up to its name. It’s a chewy combination of roasted peanuts and honey-sweetened nougat, delivering a satisfyingly sweet and nutty experience. The Big Hunk might not be as widely known as some other candies on this list, but it has a loyal following, particularly in certain regions. What sets it apart from other chewy nougat candies? Its generous peanut content and distinctive honey flavor. If you’re looking for a candy bar with a bit of substance and a whole lot of chew, the Big Hunk is definitely worth a try.

3. Brand Spotlight: “B” Brands Making a Difference

Let’s shine a spotlight on those big-name candy brands that kick off with a “B”! These aren’t just names; they’re titans of the sweet world, each with a story as rich as their chocolate and an impact that’s shaped how we’ve enjoyed treats for generations.

Brach’s: A Legacy of Variety and Flavor

Ah, Brach’s, the name that probably brings back childhood memories of trick-or-treating or holiday candy dishes overflowing with sugary goodness. Founded way back in 1904 by Emil J. Brach, this company started small but dreamed big. They weren’t just making candy; they were crafting an experience, a rainbow of flavors and textures designed to bring joy to every palate.

• Overview: Brach’s isn’t just about one candy; it’s about all the candies. Their incredible range spans from hard candies to chewy delights, offering something for everyone. They’ve built a reputation on variety and consistency, becoming a staple in households across the nation.
• Notable Products: Candy Corn and conversation hearts – need we say more? Candy Corn, with its distinctive tri-color layers, has become synonymous with Halloween, while conversation hearts are the go-to Valentine’s Day treat, complete with cheesy (and sometimes questionable) messages. These candies aren’t just popular; they’re iconic, playing a significant role in seasonal celebrations and driving a huge portion of the confectionery market.
• Brand Evolution: From humble beginnings to a confectionery powerhouse, Brach’s has weathered market changes, adapted to new consumer tastes, and remained a relevant player in the industry. While the brand has changed hands a few times (currently owned by Ferrara Candy Company, a subsidiary of Ferrero), its commitment to quality and variety has remained constant. They continue to innovate while honoring their classic recipes, ensuring that Brach’s candies remain a beloved part of our lives.

The Hershey Company (and its “B” Offerings)

It’s impossible to talk about candy without mentioning Hershey’s. This company isn’t just big; it’s a colossus in the candy world. While they might not be as known for “B” candies, their impact is undeniable, and there is the popular Brookside lineup!

• Hershey’s Significance: Milton Hershey’s vision wasn’t just about making candy; it was about making affordable candy for everyone. That’s the driving force that turned a small caramel business into a global empire. From the classic Hershey’s bar to Kisses, they’ve created some of the most recognizable and beloved candies in the world.

• “B” Candy Contributions (Brookside): While Hershey’s might not have a long list of candies starting with “B,” they do own Brookside, which uses unique flavor combinations to bring the sweetness. Think dark chocolate covering exotic fruit flavors: these candies may not fit the mold, but provide high antioxidant value to the body.

• Collaborations and Partnerships: Hershey’s has a knack for collaborations, often teaming up with other brands to create exciting new treats. These partnerships amplify the reach of their candies and introduce consumers to novel flavor combinations and product formats. Even without specifically pushing “B” candies, these collaborations keep Hershey’s at the forefront of the industry.

“B” is for Basic: Key Candy Ingredients

Candy making isn’t just about mixing things together; it’s a sweet science! And like any good science, it all starts with the right ingredients. Let’s unwrap the magic behind three fundamental “B” ingredients that give our favorite treats their signature zing: butterscotch, brown sugar, and that love-it-or-hate-it black licorice extract.

Butterscotch: The Rich and Buttery Base

Ever wondered what gives butterscotch that unmistakable warm, comforting flavor? Well, it’s all in the name! Butterscotch is basically a delightful concoction of butter and brown sugar (yes, brown sugar makes another appearance). It’s cooked until it reaches that perfect caramelized state, which results in a rich, buttery flavor that’s simply irresistible.

• What it is: Butterscotch is made by boiling butter and brown sugar, sometimes with corn syrup, water, cream, vanilla and salt. The butter and sugar mixture will undergo a Maillard reaction that produces the color, flavor and aroma.
• Diverse Forms: From hard candies to creamy caramels, even drizzled as a luscious sauce, butterscotch is a versatile player in the candy game. Think of those classic butterscotch discs your grandma always had or that gooey butterscotch topping on your sundae – pure bliss.
• Flavor Profile: It’s sweet, buttery, and has those caramel-like notes. The flavors complement the sweet flavors that we know.

Brown Sugar: Adding Depth and Moisture

Speaking of brown sugar, this isn’t your ordinary white granulated stuff! The molasses content in brown sugar is what sets it apart. That molasses is what gives it its distinct color, moisture, and a depth of flavor that white sugar just can’t match.

• Molasses Magic: The molasses in brown sugar brings a subtle caramel undertone, adding a complexity that makes candies taste richer and more satisfying.
• Texture and Taste: Brown sugar isn’t just about flavor; it also plays a crucial role in texture. It helps keep candies moist and chewy. Ever notice how fudges and caramels made with brown sugar have that soft, melt-in-your-mouth feel? That’s the brown sugar at work!
• Applications: From old-fashioned fudge recipes to chewy caramels, brown sugar is the secret ingredient for that extra touch of sweetness.

Black Licorice Extract: A Polarizing Potion

Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room – black licorice. It’s the Marmite of the candy world: people either adore it or can’t stand it. The flavor comes from black licorice extract, derived from the root of the licorice plant.

• Source and Properties: Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which is intensely sweet. The root can be boiled in water and then evaporated.
• Love It or Hate It: The polarizing taste comes from anethole, which has a licorice flavor. It’s a unique flavor that some find incredibly satisfying, while others… well, let’s just say it’s not their cup of tea.
• Health Considerations: It’s worth noting that excessive consumption of black licorice can lead to health issues due to glycyrrhizin. So, like with any good thing, moderation is key. Enjoy responsibly!

Behind the Scenes: Candy-Making Techniques Starting with “B”

Ever wondered what makes your favorite candies so darn delicious? It’s not just magic, folks, it’s science…and a whole lot of technique! Let’s peek behind the curtain and explore some crucial candy-making methods starting with the letter “B.” We’re talking about the basic building blocks of sweet treats!

Boiling: The Foundation of Many Candies

Ah, boiling: the cornerstone of so many candies. Think of it as the make-or-break moment. It’s where sugar transforms from a grainy mess into something spectacular. But it’s not as simple as just turning up the heat! It’s all about controlling the temperature and sugar concentration.

• First things first, understanding the science is vital. Boiling sugar is essentially evaporating water, increasing the sugar concentration. Different candy types require different sugar concentrations which correspond to specific temperatures. A candy thermometer becomes your best friend here! Soft candies like caramels are cooked to lower temperatures, resulting in less water evaporation and a softer texture. Hard candies, on the other hand, need higher temperatures for a glassy, brittle finish.

• There are different stages and techniques, each leading to a unique candy experience. Knowing the difference between the thread stage, soft-ball stage, hard-crack stage, and so on is critical. Overcook it, and you’ll end up with a burnt, crystallized disaster. Under-cook it, and your candy will be sticky and sad.

• And while all this sugar science is fascinating, remember this: safety first! Molten sugar is essentially lava. Wear oven mitts, use long-handled spoons, and keep a bowl of ice water nearby in case of burns. Trust me, you don’t want to learn this lesson the hard way.

Blending: Achieving Harmony in Flavors

Imagine an orchestra where some instruments are louder than others – sounds awful, right? The same applies to candy! That’s where blending swoops in as a flavor conductor. Getting all your ingredients to play nicely together is crucial for consistent flavor and texture.

• Achieving a consistent flavor and texture starts with blending ingredients evenly. A lopsided blend can result in a candy that tastes completely different from bite to bite. No one wants a caramel with a surprise salt explosion in one corner!

• When it comes to equipment and methods for blending, there are several options. In a home kitchen, this may mean using a sturdy stand mixer, or even just some good old elbow grease with a spatula. Commercial candy manufacturers will use a variety of specialized blending equipment, like ribbon blenders or planetary mixers.

• Proper blending significantly elevates the quality of the candy to the next level. Perfectly blended ingredients ensure the taste, texture, and appearance are consistent in every single bite.

Beyond the Bite: Related Candy Terms Starting with “B”

Candy isn’t just about the specific treats themselves, it’s also about the broader sweet landscape! Let’s take a look at some related terms that start with “B” and add to the fun of the confectionery world.

Bars: Convenient and Portable Treats

Think about it: What’s the one thing you can easily shove in your pocket for a sweet emergency? A candy bar! But what exactly is a candy bar?

• A candy bar is essentially a single-serving confection that’s, well, bar-shaped. They come in all sorts of delicious forms, from the classic chocolate bar (think Hershey’s or Cadbury) to dreamy nougat bars packed with nuts and caramel (like Snickers or Milky Way).
• The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to candy bars. There are chocolate bars, nut bars, caramel bars, nougat bars, and even bars filled with crisped rice or wafers. Popular examples include Snickers, Twix, Kit Kat, and many, many more! Each offers a unique blend of flavors and textures. The candy bar is a study in delicious architecture!
• The history of the candy bar is actually pretty fascinating. It started gaining serious traction in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as chocolate-making technology advanced and companies figured out how to mass-produce these portable treats. They quickly became a cultural phenomenon, offering a quick and affordable indulgence.

Brittles: Crunchy and Sweet Delights

Next up: prepare for something crispy! Have you ever had a piece of candy that shatters perfectly in your mouth with an amazing sweet and nutty flavor? Then you’ve had brittle!

• Brittles are characterized by their thin, crispy, and often glass-like texture. They’re usually made with sugar, butter, and nuts (most commonly peanuts), creating a delightful combination of sweetness and crunch.
• Making brittle involves cooking sugar to a high temperature, then adding butter and nuts. The mixture is spread thinly on a surface to cool and harden. As it cools, it becomes incredibly brittle, hence the name!
• Peanut brittle is the most common type, but you can find all sorts of delicious variations, including cashew brittle, almond brittle, and even brittles made with sesame seeds or pretzels. Each type of nut or addition brings a unique flavor profile to the party.

Bulk Candy: Stocking Up for Sweet Occasions

Now, let’s talk strategy! What if you need a LOT of candy? Then bulk candy is your best friend!

• Bulk candy simply means buying candy in large quantities, often from wholesalers or specialty stores. It’s perfect for parties, events, or when you just want to make sure you never run out of your favorite treats.
• The advantages of buying in bulk are obvious: you get more candy for your money and you’re always prepared for a sweet craving. However, there are downsides, like needing storage space and resisting the temptation to eat it all at once! Popular bulk options include hard candies, gummy candies, chocolates, and individually wrapped treats.
• To keep your bulk candy fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. And, most importantly, keep it out of reach of hungry candy monsters (including yourself)!

So, next time you’re at the store, keep an eye out for these ‘b’ candies. Whether you’re a butterscotch lover or a bonbon enthusiast, there’s a sweet treat out there with your name on it! Happy snacking!