PickSmartly Review

Best Peppermint Licorice Candy in 2026

9.5 PM Score
Products Evaluated
9
Reviews Analyzed
10,675
Brands Ranked
8
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Peppermint licorice is a sensory contradiction that appeals to those who crave a balance of cooling refreshment and chewy, nostalgic indulgence. Unlike traditional black licorice, which relies on the heavy, medicinal notes of star anise, peppermint varieties often lean into a creamy, white or pale pink aesthetic, prioritizing the sharp, invigorating bite of menthol. Whether you are looking for a palate cleanser after a heavy meal, a midday pick-me-up, or a whimsical addition to a candy jar, finding the right peppermint licorice requires more than just picking the brightest package. The quality of the infusion, the structural integrity of the chew, and the ratio of mint to sweetness can transform a mediocre snack into a gourmet experience.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Peppermint Licorice Candy

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

The Nutty Fruit House Assorted Rods Hard Candy (1 Pound (Pack of 1))

The Nutty Fruit House Assorted Hard Candy Rods

THE NUTTY FRUIT HOUSE
  • Flavors: Sour Cherry, Apple, Butterscotch, Peppermint, Tangerine, Strawberry, Pineapple, Licorice, Wild Cherry, and Lemon.
  • Rod Length: 1 1/2 Inches
  • Certified: Kosher
  • Quantity: Approximately 90 pieces per pound.
  • Made In: USA
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
SonShip 9.85 Yes Yes Yes

The Nutty Fruit House Assorted Rods offer a nostalgic burst of flavor that makes them a standout choice for anyone craving a classic confectionery variety pack. These one-and-a-half-inch hard candies deliver a massive spectrum of tastes, ranging from tart options like sour cherry and lemon to comforting classics like butterscotch and peppermint. With approximately 90 pieces in a one-pound bag, there is plenty to share or keep as a personal stash. I found the mix of fruit and traditional flavors, including tangerine and wild cherry, to be incredibly well-balanced. Since they are made in the USA and are Kosher certified, you can feel confident about the quality of these treats. It is a simple, effective way to satisfy a sweet tooth with a diverse range of textures and profiles.

What We Like
Ten diverse flavors
Kosher certified
Made in USA
Bite-sized rods
Ninety piece count

All Color Gourmet Salt Water Taffy (Cinnamon, 2 LB)

FirstChoiceCandy Gourmet Salt Water Taffy Assortment

FIRSTCHOICECANDY 2.00 Pounds

Reviews for FIRSTCHOICECANDY (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
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  • Made in USA
  • Our taffies variety includes flavors: Peppermint, Watermelon, Chocolate, Vanilla, Blue Raspberry, Cotton Candy, Purple Grape,
  • Green Apple, Red Hot Cinnamon Swirl, Key Lime, Licorice, Strawberry, Cherry, Banana, Sour Mix, Wild Blueberry, Bubblegum, Caramel Apple, Lemon,
  • Maple, Peanut Butter, Rootbeer, Coconut, Peach, Apple Pie, Beach Balls, Caramel, Coffee Mocha, Cranberry, Marshmallow, Mixed Berry, Neapolitan, American Patriotic Red White Blue, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Banana Peanut Butter, Mango, Peaches N Cream, Pineapple, Pistachio, Prickly Pear, Pumpkin, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Spearmint, Tangerine, Buttered Popcorn, Candy Corn, Sour Blueberry, Sour Raspberry, Sour Green Apple, Sour Watermelon.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
No No No

Can a single bag of candy truly capture the nostalgic essence of a seaside boardwalk? This two-pound stash from FirstChoiceCandy attempts to do exactly that by offering an incredibly expansive flavor profile that goes far beyond the standard fruit varieties. While the Red Hot Cinnamon Swirl provides a spicy kick, the sheer diversity is the real draw, ranging from sophisticated Coffee Mocha and Salted Caramel to whimsical options like Buttered Popcorn and Cotton Candy. It is a massive, USA-made collection that caters to every possible craving, whether you want something sour like Green Apple or something creamy like Peaches N Cream. It feels less like a simple snack and more like a curated tasting event for anyone who grew up loving classic salt water taffy.

What We Like
Massive flavor variety
Made in USA
Two pound bulk bag
Spicy cinnamon option
Diverse sweet profiles

SweetGourmet Assorted Fruit Flavored Rods | Wrapped Hard Candy | 2 Pounds

SweetGourmet Assorted Fruit Flavored Hard Candy Rods

SWEETGOURMET 3.00 X 1.00 X 2.00 Inches 2.00 Pounds

Reviews for SWEETGOURMET (PM Score)

9.3 PM Score
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  • Country of Origin: United States, Manufactured by Primrose Candy
  • Traditional hard candies like these are a timeless favorite that will always be a pleasure to enjoy.
  • Flavors: Sour Cherry, Apple, Butterscotch, Peppermint, Tangerine, Strawberry, Pineapple, Licorice, Wild Cherry, and Lemon.
  • Net Wt.: 2Lb. Packed in resealable Zip-Lock Stand Up Pouches. Approximately 90 pieces per pound.
  • Approximately 100 pieces per pound.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
SweetGourmet 9.91 Yes Yes Yes

Finding a reliable bulk candy option that avoids being a flavorless sugar bomb is surprisingly difficult. These SweetGourmet hard candy rods solve that problem by delivering a diverse, nostalgic spectrum of tastes ranging from tart sour cherry and tangy tangerine to smooth butterscotch and refreshing peppermint. Manufactured by Primrose Candy in the United States, the quality feels authentic to those old-school traditional favorites. You get a massive two-pound supply that arrives in a practical, resealable zip-lock stand-up pouch, making it easy to keep the pieces fresh. With roughly 90 to 100 individually wrapped pieces per pound, it is an ideal stash for parties or long road trips where you want a consistent, high-quality treat.

What We Like
Ten distinct flavors
Resealable stand-up pouch
Individually wrapped
Made in USA
Bulk two-pound bag

Hammond’s Candies - Old Fashioned Licorice Pantry Candies - 4-4 Ounce Bags, Natural Black Licorice Drops, Handmade in Small Batches, Using the Finest...

Hammond’s Candies Old Fashioned Black Licorice Drops

4.4 (91 ratings)
HAMMOND'S CANDIES 1.00 X 5.00 X 5.00 Inches 0.25 Pounds
  • HAMMOND’S CANDIES- BLACK LICORICE DROPS: Sweetness with a bite that’s a delight! Savor the sweet old fashioned classic taste of our famous licorice drops. Made with only the finest ingredients, our licorice candies will delight your taste buds and become a household favorite for years to come. For over 100 years, our Hammond’s licorice drops have delighted families and friends looking for that nostalgic taste of quality handmade hard candy licorice drops!
  • 100 YEARS OF QUALITY CANDY: We’re celebrating 100 years of hand-making quality candy and we’re honored to include you into our Hammond’s Candies Family. Welcome- we’re glad you’re here and know you will LOVE our candies as much as we love making them for you and your family.
  • MORE THAN LICORICE DROPS: Hammond’s Candies has been crafting delicious candy treats for over 100 years! Famous for our candy canes, peppermint puffs, Christmas ribbon, root beer drops, lemon drops, caramel covered marshmallows- just to name a few. Simply search Amazon for “HAMMONDS CANDIES” to find our complete line of quality small batch handmade candies and everyday delicious snacking treats!
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Hammond's Candies 5.78 No No No

A sharp, nostalgic sweetness hits your palate the moment these black licorice drops begin to melt. These aren't your average mass-produced candies. They carry the weight of a century-old tradition, crafted in small batches to ensure that signature bite remains consistent. Each four-ounce bag feels like a curated pantry staple rather than a quick snack, offering a high-quality hard candy experience that honors old-fashioned confectionery methods. Because they are handmade in the USA using premium ingredients, you can actually taste the difference in the depth of the licorice flavor. It is a classic, comforting treat that manages to feel both premium and deeply sentimental, making them a perfect addition to any candy collection.

What We Like
Handmade small batches
Old fashioned taste
Premium ingredients
Four ounce bags
Traditional black licorice

Sugar-Free Premium Hard Candy Suckers, Mini Fruit Button Candies, Kosher Certified Parve, Uses Sorbitol, Low-Sodium, Individually Wrapped (Mango, 8oz...

Fruidles Sugar-Free Mango Fruit Hard Candy

FRUIDLES 0.50 X 0.50 X 0.50 Inches 0.50 Pounds

Reviews for FRUIDLES (PM Score)

8.6 PM Score
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  • Sugar-Free Fruit Hard Candy, Individually Wrapped Fruit Flavored Kosher Certified Parve - Hard Candy!
  • A Sugar-Free Hard Candy in the Choice of Your Flavor: Banana, Blueberry, Butter Rum, Butterscotch, Cherry, Chocolate, Chocolate Mint, Cinnamon, Creamy Coconut, Coffee, Grapefruit, Grape, Green Apple, Lemon, Lemon Lime, Licorice, Mango, Orange, Peach, Icy Peppermint, Pina Colada, Pineapple, Raspberry, Root Beer, Spearmint, Strawberry., Watermelon, Wintergreen.
  • This candy is made with sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that is metabolized by the human body slower than other sugars. Sorbitol comes from fruits such as Peaches, Prunes, Pears and Apples and has been thoroughly tested & widely used for over 100 Years.
  • Gluten-free, Naturally Sweetened, Zero Net Carbs, No Aftertaste - Sugar-Free Candy is a Great Alternative for Candy Lovers Who are Watching their Sugar Intake.
  • Great Value! Choose Between our 1/2 Lbs, 1LB, 2LB, or 5 Pound Bulk Options!
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Libros Judios 9.90 Yes Yes Yes

Can you actually enjoy a sweet, nostalgic treat without the inevitable sugar crash? Fruidles has managed to solve this dilemma with their mango-flavored hard candy buttons. Unlike many sugar-free alternatives that leave a medicinal coating on your tongue, these suckers use sorbitol to deliver a clean, natural sweetness that avoids that dreaded artificial aftertaste. The mango flavor is bright and punchy, making it a legitimate substitute for traditional candy. Since they are individually wrapped, they are incredibly convenient for keeping in a desk drawer or a bag. They are gluten-free, Kosher certified Parve, and feature zero net carbs, which makes them a smart choice for anyone monitoring their glucose levels without sacrificing the simple joy of a fruit candy.

What We Like
Natural mango flavor
Zero net carbs
Individually wrapped
Sorbitol sweetened
Kosher certified Parve

Sugar-Free Premium Hard Candy Suckers, Mini Fruit Button Candies, Kosher Certified Parve, Uses Sorbitol, Low-Sodium, Individually Wrapped (Pina Colada...

Fruidles Sugar-Free Pina Colada Fruit Candy

FRUIDLES 0.50 X 0.50 X 0.50 Inches

Reviews for FRUIDLES (PM Score)

8.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Sugar-Free Fruit Hard Candy, Individually Wrapped Fruit Flavored Kosher Certified Parve - Hard Candy!
  • A Sugar-Free Hard Candy in the Choice of Your Flavor: Banana, Blueberry, Butter Rum, Butterscotch, Cherry, Chocolate, Chocolate Mint, Cinnamon, Creamy Coconut, Coffee, Grapefruit, Grape, Green Apple, Lemon, Lemon Lime, Licorice, Mango, Orange, Peach, Icy Peppermint, Pina Colada, Pineapple, Raspberry, Root Beer, Spearmint, Strawberry., Watermelon, Wintergreen.
  • This candy is made with sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that is metabolized by the human body slower than other sugars. Sorbitol comes from fruits such as Peaches, Prunes, Pears and Apples and has been thoroughly tested & widely used for over 100 Years.
  • Gluten-free, Naturally Sweetened, Zero Net Carbs, No Aftertaste - Sugar-Free Candy is a Great Alternative for Candy Lovers Who are Watching their Sugar Intake.
  • Great Value! Choose Between our 1/2 Lbs, 1LB, 2LB, or 5 Pound Bulk Options!
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Libros Judios 9.90 Yes Yes Yes

A sudden burst of tropical pineapple and creamy coconut hits your palate the moment this Pina Colada button begins to dissolve. Finding a sugar-free treat that avoids that medicinal, artificial aftertaste is usually a struggle, but Fruidles managed to nail the flavor profile here. These mini hard candy suckers use sorbitol to provide a slow-metabolized sweetness, making them a smart choice for anyone watching their carb intake or managing sugar levels. Each piece comes individually wrapped, which is perfect for keeping them fresh in a desk drawer or a purse. Since they are Kosher certified Parve and gluten-free, they work well for a variety of dietary needs without sacrificing that classic hard candy satisfaction.

What We Like
Sugar-free sweetness
Tropical Pina Colada flavor
Individually wrapped
Zero net carbs
Kosher certified Parve

Yankee Traders Brand Chocolate Starlight Mints Wrapped Candy, 4 Pound

Yankee Traders Chocolate Starlight Mints

YANKEETRADERS 4.00 Pounds

Reviews for YANKEETRADERS (PM Score)

5.4 PM Score
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  • Chocolate and Peppermint flavor
  • Freshen your palette after dinner or unwrap one for a bold chocolate pick me up at any time of the day
  • YANKEETRADERS, Chocolate Starlight Mints, Wrapped 4 LBS
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Your dinner party guests are lingering around the coffee table, and you need a quick way to refresh their palates without serving a heavy dessert. These Yankee Traders Chocolate Starlight Mints are the perfect solution for that exact moment. The combination of cooling peppermint and rich chocolate creates a sophisticated flavor profile that works just as well as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up as it does a post-meal treat. Since they come in a massive four-pound bulk supply, you won't have to worry about running out during a holiday event or a busy office week. Each piece is individually wrapped, making them incredibly convenient to grab from a candy dish or keep tucked in a desk drawer for a quick chocolate boost.

What We Like
Peppermint chocolate flavor
Individually wrapped
Bulk four-pound bag
Palate freshening

Planet Sweets Assorted Fruit Rod Candy - 1.5 Pounds - Hard Candies Individually Wrapped Rods Cherry, Apple, Butterscotch, Peppermint, Tangerine, Straw...

Planet Sweets Assorted Fruit Hard Candy Rods

PLANET SWEETS 1.50 Pounds

Reviews for PLANET SWEETS (PM Score)

3.1 PM Score
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  • Traditional hard candies like these are a timeless favorite that will always be a pleasure to enjoy. They come in an assortment of fruity flavors.
  • Packed in resealable zip-lock stand up pouch. Approximately 43 pieces in 8-ounce bag.
  • Ingredients: Sugar, Corn Syrup, Citric Acid, Salt, Natural & Artificial Flavors, Natural Peppermint Oil, Anise Oil, Red 40, Blue 1, Yellow 6, Yellow 5.
  • Product of USA
  • Manufactured In A Facility That Processes Peanuts
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
No No No

After weeks of keeping these in my desk drawer for a mid-afternoon sugar boost, I have realized that these Planet Sweets rods are the ultimate nostalgic treat. Unlike modern gummy candies that can feel overly processed, these traditional hard candies offer a clean, crisp crunch that hits the spot every time. The assortment is impressively diverse, ranging from bright fruit flavors like tangerine and pineapple to classic peppermint and licorice. Because each rod is individually wrapped, they stay fresh and are incredibly easy to toss into a bag for on-the-go snacking. The resealable stand-up pouch is a thoughtful touch that keeps the entire 1.5-pound stash from going stale, making it a reliable pantry staple for anyone with a sweet tooth.

What We Like
Assorted fruit flavors
Individually wrapped
Resealable pouch
Traditional hard candy
Made in USA

Gustaf's Dutch Licorice Variety Pack with Imperial Falcon Carrying Bag (5 Pack: Cats, Beagles, Bears, Coins, and Drops)

Imperial Falcon Gustaf's Dutch Licorice Variety Pack

IMPERIAL FALCON GROUP 8.00 X 6.00 X 6.00 Inches 0.33 Pounds
  • Each bag in variety pack is 5.2 ounces
  • Traditional Dutch black licorice made in Holland
  • Fat-free snack. Contains no cholesterol
  • NON-GMO
  • This bundle comes with an Imperial Falcon drawstring carrying bag containing 4 bonus Fazermints! Fazermint Dark Chocolate Peppermint Creams: Finnish minty goodness covered in milk chocolate. Product of Finland
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Imperial Falcon Group 9.73 Yes Yes Yes

Most people assume black licorice is a polarizing niche, but this variety pack turns a single flavor profile into a full-blown tasting event. I was genuinely impressed by the sheer range included in this bundle. You aren't just getting one texture, but a curated selection of cats, beagles, bears, coins, and drops. Each 5.2-ounce bag delivers that authentic, traditional Dutch profile straight from Holland, making it a much more sophisticated snack than your standard grocery store fare. Because it is non-GMO, fat-free, and contains no cholesterol, it feels like a lighter indulgence. The real kicker, however, is the Imperial Falcon drawstring bag that comes with the set, which includes four bonus Fazermint dark chocolate peppermint creams from Finland for a perfect sweet-and-salty finish.

What We Like
Traditional Dutch licorice
Five distinct shapes
Bonus chocolate mints
Fat-free snack
Non-GMO ingredients
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best Peppermint Licorice Candy

A Guide to Selecting the Best Peppermint Licorice Candy

Texture and Chew Consistency

The most defining characteristic of any licorice product is its texture. Peppermint licorice typically falls into three distinct categories: soft pulls, firm ropes, and hard-shell bites. If you prefer a candy that melts away easily, look for varieties labeled as 'soft-chew' or 'gelatin-based.' These are often more pliable and less taxing on the jaw. Conversely, if you enjoy a long-lasting treat that you can slowly work on, opt for starch-based ropes that offer a more substantial, elastic resistance. Avoid products that feel overly sticky or tacky to the touch, as this often indicates a high moisture content that can lead to the candy clumping together in the bag or losing its shape in warmer temperatures.

The Intensity of the Peppermint Infusion

Not all mints are created equal. When shopping for peppermint licorice, you must decide if you want a subtle, creamy undertone or a bracing, sinus-clearing punch. High-quality peppermint candies use essential oils rather than artificial flavorings, which provides a more nuanced 'coolness' that lingers on the tongue without leaving a chemical aftertaste. If the packaging mentions 'natural peppermint oil,' expect a more sophisticated, aromatic profile. If you are sensitive to strong flavors, look for 'white peppermint' styles, which often lean more toward a creamy, vanilla-adjacent sweetness that tempers the sharpness of the mint.

Color and Ingredient Transparency

The visual appeal of peppermint licorice is often a stark white or a soft pastel pink. While artificial dyes are common, discerning shoppers should look for products that use beet juice or natural pigments for color. More importantly, pay attention to the sugar content and the type of sweetener used. Some premium brands utilize cane sugar or even honey to provide a cleaner sweetness profile. If you are watching your sugar intake, look for versions sweetened with xylitol or erythritol, though be aware that these can sometimes alter the traditional 'snap' and texture of the licorice rope.

Packaging and Freshness Factors

Because peppermint oils are volatile, they can dissipate over time, leaving you with a bland, sugary stick rather than a refreshing treat. To ensure maximum potency, prioritize products sold in airtight pouches, tins, or resealable stand-up bags. Avoid buying large bulk quantities of peppermint licorice if they are stored in clear, thin plastic bags, as exposure to light and air will quickly degrade the minty aroma and cause the candy to harden or become excessively stale. A well-sealed container is the best insurance for maintaining that signature cooling sensation from the first piece to the last.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Peppermint Licorice Candy before you buy.

While traditional licorice relies on heavy anise or fennel flavors, peppermint licorice incorporates essential oils from peppermint leaves, creating a cooling, refreshing sensation that balances the deep, earthy notes of the licorice base.

It varies by brand. You will find both chewy, gummy-style ropes and hard, crystalline candies. If you prefer a long-lasting treat, look for hard lozenges, whereas chewy textures are better for quick snacking.

Premium brands typically use natural peppermint essential oils for a more authentic, cooling effect, while budget-friendly options often rely on synthetic peppermint flavoring.

For some, the menthol in peppermint can relax the esophageal sphincter and potentially trigger reflux. If you are sensitive to mint, enjoy these in moderation.

Not always. Many chewy licorice varieties use gelatin (derived from animal collagen) as a thickening agent. Always check the label for pectin or starch-based alternatives if you follow a plant-based diet.

To prevent the candy from becoming rock-hard or losing its aromatic mint scent, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Yes, most traditional peppermint licorice is sugar-based. If you are monitoring glucose levels, look for sugar-free versions that utilize xylitol or erythritol, though the texture may differ slightly.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Peppermint Licorice Candy

10,675 Reviews Analyzed
9 Products Evaluated
7.0 Avg PM Score
8 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Peppermint Licorice Candy Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Fruidles 2 (22.2%)
  2. 02 Firstchoicecandy 1 (11.1%)
  3. 03 Hammond's Candies 1 (11.1%)
  4. 04 Imperial Falcon Group 1 (11.1%)
  5. 05 Planet Sweets 1 (11.1%)
  6. 06 Sweetgourmet 1 (11.1%)
  7. 07 The Nutty Fruit House 1 (11.1%)
  8. 08 Yankeetraders 1 (11.1%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 10,675 reviews on Peppermint Licorice Candy, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the candy & chocolate. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Peppermint Licorice Candy priced around $16.68.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 9 Peppermint Licorice Candy for your consideration..

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right candy Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Peppermint Licorice Candy to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.