Easter candy has a long and interesting history that can be traced back to ancient times. Giving and receiving candy during Easter originated from pagan celebrations of spring and fertility. “Easter” comes from “Ēastre,” an Old English term for a pagan festival honoring the goddess of spring.
During this festival, people exchanged eggs and sweets to symbolize new life and the end of winter. Christians later adopted the tradition of giving candy at Easter to celebrate Jesus Christ’s resurrection. In 17th-century Germany, the first Easter eggs were crafted from sugar and marzipan.
These sweet gifts eventually evolved into colorful chocolate eggs that are popular today. The first chocolate Easter eggs were produced in Europe during the 19th century, and by the early 20th century, they had also become a common Easter tradition in the United States. Modern Easter candy comes in many forms, but its origins can be traced to ancient pagan and Christian customs.
From traditional chocolate bunnies to contemporary jelly beans, Easter candy remains essential to the holiday celebrations.
Key Takeaways
- Easter candy has a long history dating back to the 19th century, with the first chocolate eggs being made in Europe.
- Popular Easter candy options include chocolate bunnies, marshmallow chicks, jelly beans, and candy-coated eggs.
- When choosing the best Easter candy, consider the recipient’s preferences, the quality of the ingredients, and any dietary restrictions.
- For a fun and festive twist, use Easter candy in recipes such as cookies, cakes, and trail mix.
- Healthier alternatives to traditional Easter candy include dark chocolate, fruit-flavored gummies, and naturally sweetened treats.
- The best places to shop for Easter candy are specialty chocolate shops, online retailers, and local grocery stores, which offer a wide selection.
- Engage the whole family in Easter candy crafts such as making candy-filled Easter eggs, creating edible Easter baskets, and decorating chocolate treats.
Popular Easter Candy Options
Timeless Favorites
The chocolate bunny is an iconic Easter candy in various sizes and styles. You can find solid milk chocolate bunnies or hollow ones with creamy centers. Another beloved treat is the classic Easter egg, made from solid chocolate, filled with caramel or nougat, or coated in a colorful candy shell.
Colorful and Fun
Jelly beans are a popular Easter candy, available in a rainbow of flavors and colors. These bite-sized treats are perfect for filling Easter baskets and can be enjoyed by candy lovers of all ages. Peeps, marshmallow chicks, and bunnies coated in colorful sugar are also staples of Easter candy offerings.
Gourmet Delights
Gourmet chocolates and truffles are popular choices for Easter for those who prefer something more sophisticated. These decadent treats come in various flavors, from classic milk chocolate to exotic fruit and nut combinations. Whether you prefer traditional favorites or more modern indulgences, there’s an Easter candy option to satisfy every sweet tooth.
How to Choose the Best Easter Candy
With so many options, it can be overwhelming to select the best Easter candy for your celebrations. When choosing Easter candy, it’s important to consider the preferences of your family and friends. If you’re shopping for children, colorful and playful candies like jelly beans and marshmallow treats are always a hit.
For a more sophisticated touch for adults, consider gourmet chocolates or artisanal confections. Another factor to consider when choosing Easter candy is dietary restrictions and allergies. Many people have food sensitivities or allergies to common ingredients like nuts, dairy, or gluten.
When selecting Easter candy, be sure to read the labels carefully and choose options that are safe for everyone to enjoy. Many allergy-friendly Easter candies are available, so no one has to miss out on the sweet treats. Finally, consider the presentation of your Easter candy.
Whether filling baskets for loved ones or hosting a festive gathering, displaying your candy can make a big impact. Consider arranging your candy in decorative jars or bowls or incorporating it into themed centerpieces or table settings. Considering these factors, you can choose the best Easter candy to make your holiday celebrations even sweeter.
Creative Ways to Use Easter Candy in Recipes
Recipe | Main Easter Candy Ingredient | Description |
---|---|---|
Easter Candy Bark | Chocolate eggs | A simple and delicious treat made by melting chocolate and adding chopped Easter candy on top |
Easter Candy Cookies | Mini chocolate bunnies | Classic cookie recipe with a twist by adding mini chocolate bunnies to the dough |
Easter Candy Milkshake | Jelly beans | A fun and colorful milkshake made with vanilla ice cream and blended with jelly beans. |
Easter Candy Trail Mix | Assorted Easter candy | A mix of nuts, pretzels, and assorted Easter candy for a sweet and salty snack |
Easter candy isn’t just for snacking—it can also be used in a variety of creative recipes to add a sweet touch to your holiday menu. One popular way to incorporate Easter candy into recipes is by using it as a topping for baked goods like cookies, brownies, and cupcakes. Chopped-up chocolate bunnies, jelly beans, or Peeps can add a pop of color and flavor to your favorite treats.
Another fun way to use Easter candy in recipes is to incorporate it into homemade ice cream or milkshakes. Mix your favorite candies into your ice cream base or blend them into a creamy milkshake for a deliciously indulgent dessert. You can also use Easter candy as a decorative element for cakes and other baked goods by arranging it on top or using it to create fun designs.
For those who enjoy getting creative in the kitchen, making homemade candy with Easter-themed molds can be a fun and rewarding activity. You can use chocolate or candy melts to create your custom treats in shapes like bunnies, eggs, and chicks. This is a great way to personalize your Easter candy and impress your friends and family with culinary skills.
Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Easter Candy
While traditional Easter candy is undeniably delicious, it’s no secret that many options are high in sugar and calories. There are plenty of options if you’re looking for healthier alternatives to traditional Easter candy. One popular choice is dark chocolate, which contains antioxidants and has less sugar than milk chocolate.
Look for dark chocolate bars or truffles with at least 70% cocoa content for a rich and satisfying treat. Dried fruit is another healthier alternative to traditional Easter candy. Sweet and chewy dried fruits like apricots, mangoes, and cranberries make for a naturally sweet snack packed with vitamins and fiber.
You can also find dried fruit covered in dark chocolate for a sweet and satisfying indulgence lower in sugar than traditional candies. For those who prefer savory snacks, consider giving nuts as an alternative to sugary treats. Nuts are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them a satisfying and nutritious option for snacking.
You can find nuts coated in dark chocolate or other flavorful seasonings for a tasty twist on traditional Easter candy.
The Best Places to Shop for Easter Candy
In-Store Shopping
When shopping in-store, you can find a variety of Easter candies at grocery stores and supermarkets. These retailers typically carry a range of classic favorites and modern indulgences. For a more unique shopping experience, consider visiting specialty candy shops that offer handmade and artisanal confections.
Online Shopping
If you prefer the convenience of online shopping, many websites specialize in selling Easter candy and other holiday treats. Online retailers often offer a wider selection than traditional stores and may carry hard-to-find or specialty items you won’t find elsewhere. This is especially helpful when searching for allergy-friendly or gourmet options.
Supporting Local Businesses
Local bakeries and confectioners are great places to shop for Easter candy for those who enjoy supporting small businesses. Many small companies offer handmade chocolates, sweets, and baked goods perfect for celebrating the holiday season. By shopping locally, you can find unique, high-quality treats while supporting your community.
Fun Easter Candy Crafts for the Whole Family
Easter candy isn’t just for eating – it can also be used in fun and creative crafts for the whole family. One popular craft idea is making edible Easter nests using chow mein noodles or pretzel sticks coated in melted chocolate. Once the nests have hardened, you can fill them with colorful jelly beans or chocolate eggs for a festive and delicious treat.
Another fun craft idea is making edible jewelry using licorice laces or stringing together colorful candies on thread or dental floss. Kids will love creating their wearable art while snacking on their sweet creations. You can also use Peeps marshmallow treats to create fun dioramas or scenes inside plastic eggs for a playful and imaginative craft activity.
Making homemade lollipops or chocolate-covered pretzels with Easter-themed decorations can be fun and rewarding for those who enjoy getting creative with food. You can use molds to create custom shapes like bunnies or eggs and then decorate them with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter for an extra special touch. In conclusion, Easter candy has a rich history spanning centuries and is an integral part of today’s holiday traditions.
With so many options, there’s an Easter candy option to satisfy every sweet tooth, whether you prefer classic favorites or more modern indulgences. You can choose the best Easter candy for your celebrations by considering factors like dietary restrictions and presentation. Additionally, there are plenty of creative ways to use Easter candy in recipes and crafts that the whole family can enjoy together.
Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, there are many places to find high-quality Easter candy perfect for gifting or indulging during the holiday season.
FAQs
What types of Easter candy can I find in a shop?
The shop offers a variety of Easter candies, including chocolate bunnies, marshmallow chicks, jelly beans, candy-coated eggs, and other seasonal treats.
Are there any dietary options for Easter candy in shops?
Many shops offer dietary options for Easter candy, including sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan options to accommodate various dietary restrictions.
Can I find Easter candy in different sizes and packaging in shops?
Yes, shops typically offer Easter candy in various sizes and packaging options, including individual pieces, small bags, large bags, and gift baskets.
Do shops offer seasonal discounts or promotions on Easter candy?
Many shops offer seasonal discounts and promotions on Easter candy, especially closer to the holiday. It’s common to find sales, buy-one-get-one deals, and other special offers.
Can I purchase Easter candy online from shops?
Yes, many shops offer the option to purchase Easter candy online, allowing you to browse and buy from the comfort of your home and have it delivered to your doorstep.