Did you know jawbreakers, those hard candies from childhood, started in the 19th century? The term “gobstopper” was first used early in the 20th century1. These candies have been loved for generations, mixing nostalgia with adventure. They have a hard shell and colorful layers that challenge you and burst with fruity flavors.
As you explore jawbreakers, you’ll see they capture the heart of classic candy. They turn simple moments into cherished memories with every bite. Whether you had them as a kid or now find them in specialty shops, they are a key part of candy culture. They continue to draw candy lovers worldwide2
Key Takeaways
- They have a rich history dating back to the 19th century.
- They come in various sizes, including mini, 1-inch, and 2.25-inch options.
- The manufacturing process involves adding multiple layers of sugar.
- Jawbreakers can be found in different varieties, including classic, sour, and novelty designs.
- This nostalgic candy is known for its long-lasting fruity flavors.
- There are emerging sugar-free alternatives to cater to health-conscious consumers.
The History of Jawbreakers
The story of jawbreakers is as intriguing as their flavor. These candies, once known as gobstoppers, have a long history. They started in the United Kingdom. The name comes from ‘gob,’ meaning mouth, and ‘stopper,’ showing they can fill your mouth for a long time.
Local confectioners made these sweets by hand at first. They tried out different flavors and sizes. Later, they began making them on a large scale.
Origins of Jawbreakers
They have a rich history. They come in various sizes, from a hazelnut to a golf ball in diameter. They also come in many colors and flavors. Kids love them, which is why you often find them in vending machines.
The Ferrara Pan Candy Company, started in Illinois in 1919, helped make jawbreakers popular. Salvatore Ferrara founded this company. It’s a big name in candy history. Jawbreakers are made with sugar, natural colors, and different flavors3.
Industrialization and Popularity
The candy industry changed a lot in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. New technologies made it possible to make more candies for more people.
Gobstoppers have been a favorite for over a hundred years. They dissolve slowly in your mouth. Making them involves creating layers of liquid sugar, a process that takes weeks4.
The Everlasting Gobstopper, once introduced in 1976, was deeply inspired by “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” A lawsuit about an exploding Wonka Everlasting Gobstopper was filed in 20034.
How Jawbreakers Are Made
Exploring how these are made shows a detailed and careful process. This process makes these hard candies not just look good but also taste great and have a special texture.
The Manufacturing Process
Their making starts with a small sugar core. Then, a special layering process called the panning process adds more layers. This process takes 14 to 19 days, making the candy hard and crunchy5.
During this time, colors and flavors are added, making the jawbreakers look colorful and taste good5. After reaching the right size, wax is used to make them shiny and attractive5.
Then, machines package them quickly and efficiently. Quality checks are key to making sure each one is perfect5.
Size and Hardness
They vary in size, from small to as big as golf balls. The bigger ones last longer and are a fun challenge. They get harder as they’re made, which is why people love them so much6.
It takes about two to three weeks to make these candies, showing how detailed the process is7. These candies have been around for over a hundred years, proving their lasting popularity7.
Varieties of Jawbreakers
Exploring their different kinds shows why they’re loved by many. From classic tastes that remind us of childhood to new and exciting flavors, there’s a jawbreaker for everyone. Let’s look at the main types of jawbreakers.
Classic Jawbreakers
They are a must-have in candy shops, known for their eye-catching looks and layered design. They come in sizes from small to as big as a golf ball8. Each one has many sugar layers, offering a mix of flavors like cherry and grape8. Their bright colors and lasting taste make them a favorite, bringing back nostalgic flavors of childhood.
Sour and Hot Jawbreakers
Sour jawbreakers add a zesty kick that excites your taste buds. They can have sour parts inside or a sour coating for an exciting taste. Hot jawbreakers, also known as “atomic fireballs,” bring spicy candy flavors for the bold. These candies are meant to be enjoyed slowly, as the hard shell melts away to reveal new tastes8.
Novelty Jawbreakers
These stand out with their unique shapes and sizes. They can look like skulls or planets and have unique flavors and colors. These jawbreakers, about 2.25 inches big and sold in packs of four9, come in colors like yellow, green, and red9. Their fun designs and bold tastes make them great for gifts or party treats.
Conclusion
They are more than just sweets; they are cultural icons with a deep history and flavor. They started in local stands and now dominate the candy market. Their lasting appeal spans across generations, thanks to childhood memories of enjoying these candies.
Each jawbreaker is a symbol of joy, with its complex layers and big size. They invite you to enjoy the fun of eating them. With new flavors and designs, the candy industry keeps evolving, to meet modern tastes. This shows jawbreakers will stay favorites for many years, creating sweet moments.
Exploring them, whether classic or new, brings endless joy. They’re not just candy; they’re a key part of our culture and tradition. Sharing and enjoying jawbreakers shows the beauty of candy adventures, making every bite special10.
FAQ
What are jawbreakers?
They are classic candies known for their colorful layers and big size. They have long-lasting fruity flavors. They offer a visual treat and bring back nostalgic memories.
What is the history behind jawbreakers?
Jawbreakers, once called gobstoppers, started in the 19th century in the UK. They became popular thanks to mass production. The Ferrara Pan Candy Company in the US played a big role in their success.
How are jawbreakers made?
Making them involves several steps. First, a core is created. Then, it’s layered with liquid sugar. Next, they’re colored and flavored. Finally, they’re polished and packaged. The panning process gives them their hard texture and bright colors.
What varieties of jawbreakers are available?
You can find classic jawbreakers, sour ones for a tangy taste, hot ones for a spicy flavor, and novelty ones with unique shapes and flavors. They’re perfect for different themes.
Where can I buy jawbreakers?
You can buy jawbreakers at candy stores, online, or in bulk. Specialty candy shops also have a wide selection of flavors and sizes.
What makes jawbreakers nostalgic candy?
Jawbreakers remind people of their childhood. Their bright colors and fruity flavors bring back happy memories. They’re a favorite across generations.
What’s the jawbreaker challenge?
The jawbreaker challenge is trying to eat a big jawbreaker in a set time or in a fun way. It’s a fun activity with friends that highlights the candy’s unique texture and taste.
