The Best New Candy From 2024

Sour Patch Kids Cherry

Sour Patch Kids may not be a new concept, but the cherry flavor is a fresh addition that has captured the hearts of many. It combines the beloved sweet and sour elements with a nostalgic cherry taste that evokes memories of the past. Some enthusiasts even claim that these tangy treats have never been sweeter.

There's a certain charm in the simplicity of the classic cherry flavor, which truly hits the spot. This isn't the first time Sour Patch Kids have introduced it; a previous version was available in 2022. However, they've since refined the recipe and altered the shape to resemble two cherries topped with green leaves, although the new shape may not be immediately recognizable. While Sour Patch Kids Cherry Blasters can be found online, the new gummies are the real highlight.

Unlike many cherry-flavored products that can taste medicinal, Sour Patch Kids Cherry are delightfully sweet, reminiscent of maraschino cherries. The candies are juicy and vibrant, akin to a cherry-flavored Jolly Rancher, but with the added twist of Sour Patch Kids' signature sour coating. It was an obvious choice for one of the best treats of the year.

Skittles Pop'd

Skittles is celebrated for its delightful array of flavors, but in 2024, this beloved candy introduced fans to a completely new way to experience the rainbow: Skittles Pop'd, offered in Original and Sour varieties. As depicted on the packaging, these innovative candies share a resemblance to the classic ones we adore, but with a twist—the filling bursts from the center (hence the name). As you might infer from their look, Skittles Pop'd are freeze-dried, which significantly changes their texture.

These new treats are notably crispier and crunchier than traditional Skittles, likely due to the removal of water during the freeze-drying process. It feels as if they've been sent back to us from the future. Simply put, they are incredibly delicious, and in a surprisingly unique way. While Skittles Pop'd still deliver the brand's iconic flavor (especially the Original variety), the new format is so well-executed that some believe it may even surpass the original.

Jolly Rancher Ropes

A fresh addition to the candy landscape from a beloved brand is Jolly Rancher Ropes. These elongated, gummy treats are bursting with flavor. While they bear a resemblance to SweeTARTS Ropes, Jolly Rancher offers a standout feature that fans adore: each bag contains not one, but two delightful flavors. (Take that, SweeTARTS!) The first flavor duo features blue raspberry and cherry gummy ropes, while the second showcases green apple and watermelon candies.

No matter which flavor combination of Jolly Rancher Ropes you choose, you can anticipate the classic Jolly Rancher taste in a more playful, gummy format—especially with the green apple and watermelon variety. The blue raspberry and cherry mix stays true to its Jolly Rancher heritage but leans a bit sweeter. Additionally, the Ropes are infused with a fruity, sour paste that perfectly counterbalances the sweetness.

The texture of Jolly Rancher Ropes is exactly what you’d hope for in a gummy candy. They are pleasantly soft without being overly chewy or prone to sticking to your teeth, unlike many other similar confections. We’re thrilled to have this candy join us in 2024!

Kit Kat Vanilla

For countless chocolate enthusiasts, Kit Kat ranks among the finest candies available. Its delightful layers and, naturally, its chocolatey essence make it a standout. However, for those who aren't fans of excessive chocolate, Kit Kat may not have been very enticing—until the introduction of Kit Kat Vanilla.

It's important to distinguish this from the White Kit Kat, which is covered in white crème. Kit Kat Vanilla, on the other hand, is enveloped in a smooth vanilla-flavored crème. When executed well, vanilla is often regarded as a premier flavor, and this candy exemplifies that. Inside, Kit Kat Vanilla retains the signature crispy wafers layered with chocolate that the brand is famous for, but replacing the chocolate coating creates a wonderfully balanced treat that many find irresistibly tasty.

While chocolate aficionados might not be as fond of this version, we always value a thoughtfully crafted twist on a classic. Even if you don't consider yourself a devoted vanilla fan, this Kit Kat is definitely worth sampling the next time you're in the mood for something unique.

Ice Breakers Flavor Shifters

Ice Breakers has embraced 2024 as a year of creativity, introducing its groundbreaking Flavor Shifters gum. This product stands out from all other candies on the market, featuring what the brand describes as "a revolutionary technology that transforms the gum from one unique flavor to another while you chew." Sounds incredible, right? Just like in Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory, each piece of gum offers more than one flavor — specifically, two — which you experience at different moments. This flavor transition has even been playfully named the "Oh Shift!" moment.

The flavor combinations include Wild Berry transitioning to Coolmint and Wintergreen shifting to Coolmint. If you typically prefer minty gums, the Wintergreen to Coolmint option is a clear choice. However, for those who enjoy both fruity and minty flavors, the Wild Berry to Coolmint experience is sure to amaze you. With this gum, you'll never have to choose between refreshing and sweet again. It's essential to acknowledge candies (and gum) that are willing to innovate, and Flavor Shifters has certainly earned its place on this list.

M&M's Mega Peanut Butter

It's well-known that peanut butter and chocolate make a classic pair. This flavor combination is my absolute favorite when it comes to desserts, and I'm certainly not the only one who feels this way. The folks at Mars seem to share this sentiment, as they introduced two different versions of their famous candy featuring this duo just this year. The first was M&M's Peanut Butter Minis, which, while delightful and cute, don't quite deliver enough peanut butter flavor. But fear not — the company also launched M&M's Mega Peanut Butter, which offers all the peanut butter richness you could desire and then some. (And yes, there's also more chocolate shell involved.)

Each Mega Peanut Butter piece is three times the size of a regular M&M, ensuring that every bite is a substantial treat. While the Peanut Butter M&M's were already fantastic, what elevates M&M's Mega Peanut Butter to the next level — and earns it a spot on this list — is the perfect balance of chocolate to peanut butter. Once you've achieved that, you've truly succeeded. And while they are amazing on their own, just imagine adding these to your next batch of chocolate chip or peanut butter cookies... yes, please!

Hubba Bubba Mini Gum in Skittles Original Flavors

From tree sap to Hubba Bubba, the journey of chewing gum is truly remarkable—and it continues to evolve even in 2024. The creative minds behind Skittles and Hubba Bubba have teamed up to introduce an exciting new candy: Hubba Bubba Mini Gum in Skittles Original Flavors.

While this gum may not have the groundbreaking innovation of Flavor Shifters, the fusion of these two beloved candies results in a delightfully satisfying treat. It not only brings a wave of nostalgic, fruity flavor to your chewing experience but also lets you savor the rainbow for an extended period. Delicious! How could this combination not be a success? Online reviewers are raving about it, claiming the gum tastes just like Skittles. Although opinions vary on how long the flavor lasts, its popularity is soaring. It even clinched the top spot in the gum and mint category at the 2024 Most Innovative New Product Awards. If you’re someone who can’t resist the allure of Skittles, you’ll definitely want to grab a pack!

Hershey's Milk Chocolate with Crunchy Waffle Cone Pieces

Hershey's is arguably the most recognizable chocolate brand in the world. However, it may have surpassed itself with the introduction of Hershey's Milk Chocolate featuring Crunchy Waffle Cone Pieces. This 2024 offering combines the beloved chocolate flavor with an unexpected, delightful crunch.

When they debuted in August 2024, Hershey's Crunchy Waffle Cone Pieces generated significant excitement, primarily due to their intriguing name. If it brings to mind a solid version of a chocolate ice cream cone, you're on the right track. While it lacks the cold creaminess of ice cream, the other two components compensate beautifully. Plus, the waffle cone maintains its crispness. Reviews suggest that Hershey's has somehow crafted cone pieces that taste as if they were just baked. They are buttery, crunchy, and salty all at once. When paired with the rich milk chocolate, the combination is undeniably mouthwatering. Enjoying Hershey's Crunchy Waffle Cone Pieces on their own is a treat, but they can also serve as a secret ingredient for incredibly delicious s'mores and much more. Yum!

HI-CHEW Gummies

Were flavor combinations the highlight of 2024? It certainly appears that way, and HI-CHEW was right in the mix. The brand impressed consumers with gummies available in two distinct flavor combinations: Original and Sour. Each bag offers a delightful variety as well. The Original flavor features mango, peach, and strawberry gummies, while the Sour bag includes pineapple, watermelon, and green apple gummies. So not only do you get two exciting new products from the brand at once, but you also enjoy multiple flavors in each bag. A win-win!

Beyond the fun flavor selections, HI-CHEW Gummies are crafted to perfection. Reviews highlight their juicy, soft texture and vibrant fruity flavors and aromas. While they may stick together in warmer conditions, the taste is enough to keep fans coming back for more.

Sour candies haven't always been a favorite, but HI-CHEW strikes a great balance with the sour version of its new gummies. They won’t make you cringe like Warheads, but they do deliver a pleasant burst of the tartness that many enjoy. Think of them as sour candies for those just starting to explore the genre.

Reese's Spring Sprinkles Big Cup

Reese's is already anticipating warmer days with the introduction of its new Spring Sprinkles Big Cup. While it shares the same shape and size as other Reese's Big Cups, this version includes vibrant sprinkle candies inside, adding a delightful crunch to the treat.

As mentioned, we enjoy classic flavors with a twist, and this fits perfectly into that category. It remains rich and sweet, thanks to the creamy milk chocolate and generous peanut butter, but the sprinkles add a fun texture. Plus, they give it a festive look. While appearance isn't everything, it certainly adds to the appeal when it comes to candy. If the Big Cups feel a bit too hefty for you (the larger size isn't for everyone), there's talk of a mini version being released soon.

Although the Reese's Spring Sprinkles Big Cup is aimed at 2025, it is technically a 2024 launch and is already available in select stores, including Sheetz, Walmart, and King Soopers. While it may not be widely available just yet, expect to see more of it soon—likely just in time to make its way into Easter baskets.

Reese's Chocolate Lava Big Cup

In case you weren't aware, Hershey's is the parent company behind Reese's Cups, and they truly dominated the market in 2024. Several of their new offerings have already been recognized as the year's finest, but this latest one really takes the prize (pun intended). The Reese's Chocolate Lava Big Cup is just what you’d expect: a larger version of the beloved Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, featuring a delightful infusion of rich chocolate sauce nestled beneath the top layer of chocolate. If the standard Reese's Big Cups are too heavy on the peanut butter for your liking, this new variant might be the perfect solution.

Drawing inspiration from the classic chocolate lava cake, it delivers a gooey, chocolatey delight in every bite, making it fair to describe the Reese's Chocolate Lava Big Cup as a molten masterpiece. As a chocolate enthusiast and a fan of this treat, I wholeheartedly agree. The chocolate lava inside balances the peanut butter without overwhelming it. For those who seek a more harmonious — yet intricate! — peanut butter-chocolate experience, this Reese's creation is just for you.