For generations, peanuts and chocolate have been an irresistible culinary pairing.
The salty, nutty taste of peanuts perfectly balances the sweetness of chocolate to create an irresistible combination that has won over hearts and taste buds alike.
Today, you can find a wide range of peanut chocolate candies to please everyone's sweet tooth - no matter their age or taste preference!
Over the years, peanut candy bars have transformed, with manufacturers exploring various flavors, textures, and combinations to satisfy their ever-expanding customer base.
From chocolate-covered peanuts to complicated combinations involving layers of peanuts, caramel, and nougat, today's range of peanut candy bars seems almost endless.
Classic Peanut Candy Bars
Classic peanut candy bars are a beloved treat enjoyed worldwide, featuring various forms of peanuts and chocolate.
1. Snickers
Mars Inc. first introduced Snickers in 1930; since then, it has become a beloved worldwide favorite.
Named after their beloved horse, Snickers quickly gained popularity due to its unique blend of nougat, caramel, peanuts, and milk chocolate.
Nowadays, Snickers is sold in over 70 countries - making it one of the top-selling candy bars globally.
Over the years, Snickers has evolved its product line to suit different preferences.
Popular varieties include Snickers Almond, Peanut Butter Squared, and Crisper; each offers an enjoyable twist on classic Snickers flavors and textures while staying true to its original formulations.
2. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, created in 1928 by Harry Burnett Reese as a product of the Hershey Company, have become one of America's beloved peanut candy bars ever since.
After leaving Hershey's, Reese developed his line of candies with peanut butter and chocolate in cup-shaped treats - an innovation that still delights today!
Reese's has always stayed ahead of consumer tastes by creating various products, such as Reese's Pieces, Miniatures, and Stuffed with Pieces.
3. Butterfinger
Butterfinger, a product of Ferrara Candy Company, made its debut on the market in 1923 and quickly gained notoriety for its crispy peanut butter core covered in milk chocolate.
To add an extra layer of mystery and anticipation for its launch, the name "Butterfinger" was selected through a public contest - adding an extra dimension to its launch.
Butterfinger's success can be attributed to its unique texture. Crafted through an exclusive process that pulls the peanut butter mixture until it reaches the desired consistency, Butterfinger stands apart from other peanut candy bars with its distinct crunch and decadent milk chocolate coating.
These qualities have kept it at the top of sales for years.
Less Known Nutty Alternatives
A range of less-known nutty alternatives of delicious candy bars offers an exciting alternative to classic chocolate-based peanut candy bars.
PayDay, Baby Ruth and Oh Henry! are three classic treats made with peanuts, caramel, and chocolate, making them favorites among peanut candy connoisseurs.
1. PayDay
PayDay, a product of the Hershey Company, is an unusual candy bar featuring a chewy caramel core surrounded by generous layers of salty peanuts.
Launched in 1932, PayDay offers an irresistible combination of sweet and salty flavors, making it one of the go-to alternatives to traditional chocolate-based peanut candy bars.
2. Baby Ruth
Baby Ruth, created by Ferrara Candy Company in 1921, has been a beloved American treat ever since.
This classic confection features peanuts, caramel, and chocolate-flavored nougat in an irresistibly creamy chocolate coating.
With its ideal balance of flavors and textures, Baby Ruth remains popular among peanut candy connoisseurs worldwide.
3. Nut Goodie
Nut Goodie, a unique treat in nutty candy bars, was first produced by Pearson's Candy Company in 1912 - making it one of America's oldest candies.
This underappreciated treat offers a delectable maple-flavored nougat center combined with crunchy peanuts, all enrobed in an indulgent milk chocolate coating.
Nut Goodie provides an intriguing flavor profile and compelling blend of textures, offering a refreshing take on classic peanut-based candy bars.
Healthier Peanut Candy Bars
There are several options if you're searching for a healthier alternative to traditional peanut candy bars.
1. KIND Bars
KIND Bars offer a healthier alternative to traditional candy bars by focusing on simple, wholesome ingredients.
These bars blend nuts, spices, and natural sweeteners into an enjoyable snack that's lower in sugar and higher in nutrients.
With varieties featuring peanuts, such as Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate, KIND Bars cater to health-conscious customers without sacrificing taste.
2. Larabar
Larabar is known for its minimally processed plant-based snack bars made from whole foods like fruits, nuts, and seeds.
Peanut-based flavors such as Peanut Butter Cookie and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip offer a healthier alternative for those seeking peanut candy without added sugars and artificial ingredients.
3. RXBAR
RXBAR uses natural food ingredients to craft its protein-packed snack bars.
Flavors like Peanut Butter and Peanut Butter Chocolate offer a nutritious choice for peanut candy enthusiasts seeking a healthy option free from added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives.
Less Known Peanut Candy Bars
Are you searching for some lesser-known peanut candy bars to try?
Hershey Company's Zagnut offers a crunchy peanut butter center with toasted coconut, while Clark Bar has an equally crispy peanut butter center coated in smooth milk chocolate.
Standard Candy Company's Goo Goo Cluster, a Southern specialty, features marshmallow nougat, caramel, and roasted peanuts all enrobed in milk chocolate - creating an irresistible treat!
1. Zagnut
Zagnut, a product of The Hershey Company, offers an innovative take on classic peanut candy bars with its crunchy peanut butter center coated in toasted coconut.
A refreshing and delectable alternative to chocolate-based peanut candy bars, Zagnut offers something special for everyone.
2. Clark Bar
First created by D.L. Clark Company in 1917 and now owned by Boyer Candy Company, the Clark Bar is a beloved classic candy bar for many candy connoisseurs. This classic treat boasts an irresistibly crispy peanut butter center encased in smooth milk chocolate for added crunch and an irresistible taste of nostalgia.
3. Goo Goo Cluster
Goo Goo Cluster, created in 1912 by Standard Candy Company in Nashville, Tennessee, is a Southern delicacy with marshmallow nougat, caramel, and roasted peanuts coated in milk chocolate.
With its one-of-a-kind texture and irresistible flavors, this candy bar stands as one of the few genuinely exceptional peanut candy bars out there.
International Peanut Candy Bars
International peanut candy bars are beloved treats found around the world.
Nestle's Lion Bar, for example, is a beloved treat in the UK made with caramel, crisped rice, peanuts, and milk chocolate.
Cadbury's Starbar offers peanut butter caramel nougat in milk chocolate.
Australia has the Cadbury Picnic bar containing peanuts, and caramel wafer puffed rice milk chocolate coating.
Each candy bar offers its distinct blend of flavors and textures that makes them irresistible treats for candy connoisseurs everywhere.
1. Lion Bar (UK)
Lion Bar, produced by Nestle, is a beloved peanut candy bar in the United Kingdom.
This delectable treat contains caramel, crisped rice, and peanuts, all coated in an elegant milk chocolate coating for maximum crunch and unique flavors that have made it a hit among candy connoisseurs around the UK and beyond.
With its satisfying crunch and intriguing combination of ingredients, Lion Bar has become an unstoppable force among confectionary lovers everywhere - not just in the UK but beyond too!
2. Starbar (UK)
Starbar, a Cadbury treat, is an overlooked gem among peanut candy bars.
This delicious bar combines peanut butter, caramel, and chewy nougat before being enrobed in Cadbury's signature milk chocolate.
Discovering Starbar has proven to be a delightful discovery for those who find its lovely blend of textures and flavors.
3. Picnic (Australia)
Picnic, produced by Cadbury, is a beloved peanut candy bar in Australia.
This unique bar features peanuts, caramel, wafer, and puffed rice, all coated in rich milk chocolate for an unforgettable taste of Australia's distinctive candy culture.
With its distinctive blend of ingredients and textures, Picnic offers something unique to all candy connoisseurs worldwide.
Vegan and Allergy Friendly Options
Vegans or those with food allergies have several options for peanut candy treats.
No Whey! Foods offer peanut-based chocolate bars free from dairy, nuts, soy, and gluten - allowing those with dietary restrictions to indulge without guilt.
Unreal's Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups use non-GMO ingredients and fair trade certified cocoa for a healthier and sustainable option.
Enjoy Life offers Ricemilk Chocolate Bars free from top allergens such as dairy, nuts, and soy; their Ricemilk Crunch combines chocolate with crispy rice for an indulgence that anyone with allergies can enjoy guilt-free.
1. NO Whey! Foods
No Whey! Foods is a brand that specializes in vegan and allergy-friendly confections.
Their line of chocolate bars includes peanut-based options like the No Whey! Chocolate No No's and Peanut Butter Cups are free from dairy, nuts, soy, or gluten - allowing those with dietary restrictions to indulge in their favorite peanut candy treats without worry.
2. Unreal Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Unreal offers a healthier and more sustainable alternative to traditional peanut butter cups.
Their Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are made with non-GMO ingredients and fair-trade certified cocoa, giving customers guilt-free choices when looking for vegan or ethically produced peanut candy options.
3. Enjoy Life Ricemilk Chocolate Bars
Enjoy Life is a company dedicated to creating allergy- and gluten-free snacks. Their Ricemilk Chocolate Bars are made with rice milk and free from allergens like dairy, nuts, and soy.
With options like Ricemilk Crunch, which combines chocolate with crispy rice, they allow those with allergies or dietary restrictions an enjoyable peanut-free candy bar experience without the guilt.
DIY Peanut Candy Bars
Create your peanut candy bars for a fun and creative twist! From recreating classic Snickers or Reese's Peanut Butter Cups to crafting healthier alternatives, there are endless possibilities for flavor combinations and ingredients.
Homemade Snickers Bars
Making homemade Snickers bars allows you to control the ingredients and customize flavors according to your preference.
You can recreate the classic Snickers flavor by layering layers of nougat, caramel, and peanuts before coating them in chocolate.
You can also add your flair, like using dark chocolate or unique mix-ins like pretzels or dried fruit.
Crafting Your Own Reese's
Making Reese's Peanut Butter Cups from scratch can be fun and rewarding.
Mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and melted butter, then pour the mixture into chocolate-lined molds.
Experiment with different chocolate types or add crushed cookies for a touch that stands out.
Creating a Healthier Peanut Candy Bar
A healthier peanut candy bar can be made using natural sweeteners, whole-food ingredients, and dark chocolate.
Adding nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to the mix will create a snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt associated with traditional candy bars.
Pairing Peanut Candy Bars with Beverages
Combining peanut candy bars with beverages can be a delightful way to enhance your snacking experience.
From wine and beer to non-alcoholic options like milk and coffee, plenty of choices will enhance or complement the flavors of your beloved candy bars.
Wine pairings
Peanut candy bars can be enjoyed with various wines to enhance their flavors.
A Snickers bar would pair nicely with an intense red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon, while Reese's Peanut Butter Cups work best when paired with either Moscato or late-harvest Riesling.
Beer and peanut candy bars
Craft beers, particularly stouts, and porters, make for a delicious pairing with peanut candy bars.
Their robust flavors often have subtle hints of chocolate, coffee, or caramel, which lend them an ideal complement to the rich, nutty taste of these confections.
Non-alcoholic beverage options
Non-alcoholic pairings for peanut candy bars should consider beverages that enhance or complement its flavors.
A cold glass of milk is a classic choice, while hot coffee can bring out the depth of flavors from Butterfinger or Baby Ruth candy bars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are peanuts in candy bars healthy?
Peanuts are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
Unfortunately, the added ingredients in candy bars - such as sugar - may negate these advantages.
For healthier options or to enjoy traditional peanut candy bars in moderation, choose healthier alternatives or add them to your meals on occasion.
What is the difference between natural and artificial peanut flavors?
The natural peanut flavor is derived from real peanuts, while artificial flavors are chemically synthesized to replicate its taste.
Natural flavors tend to be healthier and more authentic in taste compared to their synthetic counterparts.
Where can I find sugar-free or low-sugar peanut candy bars?
Yes, there are sugar-free and low-sugar peanut candy bars on the market.
Brands like KIND Bars and RXBAR offer options with less sugar than traditional candy bars.
How can I store peanut candy bars to ensure their freshness?
Store peanut candy bars in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve freshness. This will help ensure the bars last longer.
To store opened peanut candy bars, wrap them in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
If your climate is hot, keep your bars in the refrigerator to prevent melting. However, make sure they come to room temperature before enjoying for optimal flavor and texture experience.
Can I make peanut candy bars at home using alternative nut butter?
Absolutely! When making homemade peanut candy bars, you can experiment with other nut butter such as almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter.
This is an excellent option for those with peanut allergies or who want a different flavor profile.
Are there organic peanut candy bars available?
Yes, organic peanut candy bars exist.
Brands like Unreal and OCHO Candy offer organic alternatives for peanut butter cups, while some health-oriented companies may provide such options.
Always check the product packaging for an organic label to guarantee its ingredients meet organic standards.
Conclusion
Peanut candy bars remain a beloved treat due to their irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
From classic favorites to healthier alternatives and international delights, there is a peanut candy bar for everyone's tastes and preferences.
With so many peanut candy bars, finding your ideal match may take some effort.
Whether you prefer classic Snickers, Larabar's natural ingredients, or No Whey! Foods' vegan-friendly selection, there is sure to be a peanut candy bar ideal for your taste preferences.