What Candy Is Michigan Known For

What Candy is Michigan Known For?

Let me take you back to a warm summer afternoon. I was visiting Michigan, exploring its endless beauty and vibrant culture. As I walked down the streets of a small town, the sweet smell of something familiar wafted through the air. It was none other than good old fashioned fudge! The shop windows were gleaming with rich, creamy confections, promising a taste of Michigan's sweet history. It sparked my curiosity. What is it about Michigan and its candy that makes it so special? Join me as we dive into the world of Michigan's famous sweets. ### 1. Michigan’s Iconic Fudge Let's start with the "King of Candy" in Michigan, the fudge! Particularly famous in places like Mackinac Island, this homemade treat is a staple that attracts thousands of visitors each year. According to the Mackinac Island tourism board, over 1 million visitors flock to the island every summer just to indulge in its rich, creamy fudge. The intriguing history behind this candy dates back to the late 19th century. Legend has it that fudge was first made by a group of female college students at Vassar College who were trying to replicate a batch of French candy known as "fudge." That's how it made its way to Michigan, where it took on its own unique flair. ### 2. Sanders Candy and the Sea Salt Caramel Now, if we shift gears a bit, we can’t overlook Sanders Candy, a brand that has held a special place in the hearts of Michiganders since 1875. Their sea salt caramel is a marvel of sweet and salty that has captured taste buds not just locally, but around the nation. The company has even expanded, supplying its goodies to retail stores all over the U.S. Statistics show that Sanders has produced more than 25 million pounds of candy each year! Amazing, right? What’s really fascinating is the emotional connection people have with Sanders. Many Michiganders recall their childhood memories of visiting Sanders shops, which makes these treats more than just candy; they are a piece of their childhood. ### 3. The Charm of Cherry Candy Now, let’s not forget cherries! Michigan is one of the largest cherry producers in the country, contributing nearly 75% of the nation’s tart cherries. This abundance translates into delicious cherry-infused candies. From chocolate-covered cherries to cherry cordials, you'll find these delightful treats almost everywhere in the state. The mystery lies in why cherries became such a staple in Michigan’s candy culture. The answer? The rich soil and perfect climate make it a cherry paradise. ### 4. Hudsonville Ice Cream - Beyond Candy While primarily known for its ice cream, Hudsonville has cleverly delved into the candy realm with their creative flavor combinations. When you think of Michigan candy, Hudsonville’s delightful creations should also come to mind. Their ice cream bars—like chocolate-covered vanilla with crushed Oreos—remind us that candy is all about delightful surprises. ### 5. Little Dutch Girl - Old-fashioned Goodness Michigan's Little Dutch Girl candy brand holds a nostalgic charm. Known for its old-fashioned approach, the company specializes in classic candies like saltwater taffy and peanut brittle. Just stroll through any small-town Michigan shop, and you’ll likely find a colorful display of these sweet delights. Interestingly, artisans often use recipes that date back decades, keeping a window open to Michigan's candy-making past. ### Conclusion: Your Sweet Adventure Awaits If you ever find yourself in Michigan, you’re in for a treasure trove of sweet delights. Fudge, cherry-infused treats, the famed sea salt caramels from Sanders, and so much more—each candy holds a story. You might even find yourself pondering over the mystery of how these treats became so iconic. As you plan your visit, make sure to include a stop at one (or more) of Michigan's plethora of candy shops. Taste the fudge from Mackinac Island, savor the chocolates from Sanders, and bite into a cherry candy that speaks of Michigan's heart and soul. The journey into Michigan's candy landscape is about more than just flavor; it's about experiencing a slice of the state's culture, traditions, and sweet history. So, what candy is Michigan known for? Well, it’s not just one; it’s a tapestry of flavors waiting to be explored. Are you ready for your sweet adventure?

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

Search Posts

Latest posts

Popular posts