How Do You Like Your Licorice?

Licorice candy is one of the most versatile and delicious candies around. You can savor licorice bulk candy in several shapes, sizes and delicious flavors. Whatever form it takes, it’s an old favorite we all love to enjoy.

But what gives licorice its distinctive flavor? And where did it come from?

 

A Quick History Of Licorice

Traditionally, licorice is flavored with extracts from the root of the licorice plant. Originating in the Mediterranean and Middle East, licorice was used as a sweetener and even for its reported medicinal properties. In fact, licorice herb was used as long ago as 500 BC by people who believed it soothed the stomach, improved the respiratory system and even reduced stress.

We’re not sure about the first two, but it’s certainly hard to be stressed when you’re eating licorice candy.

Licorice delivers on sweetness too. Some researchers have found that licorice is 50 times sweeter than sugar! As true sweetness lovers, that’s certainly gotten our attention!

While many people relish in the distinctive flavor of licorice, others consider it an acquired taste. Today, candies that we call black licorice contain extracts from the plant, however a lot of what we call licorice is actually flavored with other ingredients to create a milder licorice-like taste. One of the most popular flavors for licorice candy is cherry. Find it in Twizzlers Bites, or try strawberry, with Finnska Licorice.

Modern Vs. Traditional Licorice

Today’s licorice is a confection with many faces. The variety caters to a wide range of tastes. 

Traditional licorice gets its flavor profile from licorice root extract, a bold and earthy flavor that combines well with the candy’s chewy texture. It’s usually sweetened with molasses or honey for a classic taste that’s loved by purists who appreciate the candy’s natural origins. 

Much modern licorice, on the other hand, often strays far from its humble roots. Many varieties now replace licorice extract with synthetic flavors for sweeter fare that appeals to a wider audience. Fruity flavors like strawberry, cherry, and watermelon are common. They offer a playful twist on an age-old treat. Some brands have even experimented with more unusual flavor combinations like licorice infused with tropical fruits or creamy fillings.

The evolution of licorice candy shows just how much it’s adapted to changing palates. It doesn’t matter if you like the classic taste of black licorice or a more unique flavor profile, there’s now a licorice for everyone to enjoy.

Ingredient Insights

How do licorice ingredients influence its flavor, texture, and other unique characteristics?

Classic licorice recipes start with licorice root extract. That gives the confection its signature earthy and slightly bitter flavor. Licorice’s herbal notes are often elevated with anise oil, and molasses gives it a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the candy’s chewy texture. 

There’s more to it when it comes to modern licorice, however. It features a range of new ingredients for a variety of tastes and textures. Common sweeteners include corn syrup and sugar instead of molasses. That results in a bright, candy-like quality that is loved by a broader audience than black licorice. The addition of food coloring gives the candy brighter hues, ranging from deep black to bold reds and greens.

Some ingredients are more surprising. Thickening agents like wheat flour and gelatin are also added to create a chewy consistency. Some licorice even includes wax for a smooth, glossy finish. In fact, many fruit-flavored licorice contain no licorice root at all. Instead they use synthetic flavors to capture the same essence. 

Focus on Unique Flavors

Licorice candy today offers consumers a huge range of unique and unexpected flavors, far beyond its traditional “roots.” Sure, black and red licorice still remain staples. But more modern versions are experimenting with bold combinations. They truly push the boundaries of candy making.

Licorice lovers and those trying it for the first time can experience tropical flavors like mango, passionfruit, and pineapple for a refreshing twist. It’s perfect for anyone who lives an exotic treat. Other licorice is on the spicer side with flavors like cinnamon to add an exciting kick for adventurous eaters. Still other licorice comes in seasonal options like peppermint or pumpkin spice for a festive take on a versatile candy.

Some brands feature gourmet licorice options with sophisticated flavor profiles like salted caramel, espresso or even lavender. Upscale varieties like these are transforming licorice into a luxurious indulgence – ideal for gifts and special occasions. 

Indeed, with so many options available to licorice connoisseurs they can explore a world of flavors far beyond the familiar.

Luscious Licorice Comes In Many Shapes

In addition to multiple tasty flavors, licorice comes in a variety of fun shapes and sizes. There is something for everyone! Check out these delightful licorice options:

Twists or Vines – I bet you’re familiar with the classic twists like Red Vines or individually packaged Twizzlers, but for an interesting “twist” on this theme, try the Rainbow Twizzlers. These delicious confections come in an assortment of Strawberry, Orange, Lemonade, Watermelon, Blue Raspberry, and Grape flavors. Or, if you want something a little more bite sized, you might try the Twizzler Bites Family Bag or Finnska Strawberry Licorice.

Laces – Did you play with these as a kid? Licorice comes in long strings or laces, which can be fun to braid or shape into whatever your imagination comes up with! Gustaf’s Licorice Laces are an excellent choice, or, if you’re looking for a licorice candy without the strong licorice taste, try Gustaf’s Strawberry Laces, Sour Apple Licorice Laces, Sour Blue Raspberry Laces, or Rainbow Laces for a full spectrum of flavors.

Wheels – Here’s a fun variation on laces: Gerrit’s Licorice Broadway Wheels. These familiar candies are licorice ropes that are rolled up into a wheel. Also try this in strawberry with Gerrit’s Strawberry Broadway Wheels.

Pipes – Pretend you’re Sherlock Holmes with Licorice Pipes. They look just like the real thing and come in black or red.

Other Shapes – Licorice can come in many other shapes and sizes. It even comes in assortments with other types of candy! Gustaf’s Taveners English Liquorice Allsorts and Mounties Licorice varieties have delicious licorice on the inside, and a layer of flavored sweet, chewy goodness on the outside.

Or, you can flip that around with Rockies Licorice, which has the licorice on the outside and creamy flavors on the inside. You can also add some salt to your licorice, with Money Salt Coins. Want the sweet taste of licorice without the added sugar? Try Sugar-Free Licorice Bears.

And if you want to try a variety of these shapes, try the Red Vines California Collection, which comes in bites, bars, ropes, strings, and twists.

Believe it or not there is even more licorice varieties than we have talked about here. For more wonderful licorice treats, visit our candy store.

Sensory Descriptions

Anyone who’s ever tasted licorice knows it’s more than a treat – it’s’ a full sensory experience. Take a moment and open a bag, you’ll immediately be drawn in by the unique aroma. Whether it’s black licorice with its rich, herbal scent or fruity varieties with their sweet and tangy fragrance, your senses will be instantly delighted. 

Most licorice candy has a glossy sheen that only adds to its brightly-colored visual appeal. It’s so enticing, it just invites you to take a bite. 

The texture of licorice is also a memorable experience. Each piece offers the perfect amount of resistance for a chewy treat that still melts in your mouth. The flavor intensifies with each chew, whether it’s sweet, salty, or sour. 

But that’s not all. Licorice appeals to all your senses, including sound. The snap of breaking a licorice twist or the stretch when you pull apart the pieces will both invite you to savor the full experience of the classic candy. 

Salty vs. Sour Licorice

Aside from the classic flavors, there are salty and sour options for licorice lovers.

Salty licorice has a bold brininess like no other. It is especially popular in Nordic countries. The candy provides a savory sensation that works great with the natural sweetness of the licorice root.

Fans of this kind of licorice often say it’s an acquired taste, which then becomes an irresistible combination for those who grow to love the flavor. Some varieties, like salmiak licorice, are dusted with salt crystals for even more flavor.

Meanwhile, sour licorice appeals to a whole different set. These tart treats are infused with citric acid or tangy fruit flavors. A zestful contrast to the sweet, the candies come in varieties such as sour apple, lemon, and raspberry, among a whole load more. 

This candy, when consumed, creates that puckering effect in your mouth, which makes it fun for those who enjoy sour candies.

International Appeal

It’s no secret that licorice is a worldwide phenomenon, enjoyed in almost every country in one variety or another. And people love its unique flavors and versatility. 

But let’s not forget, not only is licorice delicious, it’s a snack portable enough to enjoy anywhere.

In Scandinavia, where salty licorice has long been a cultural staple, people enjoy it across all age groups – morning, noon, or night – with their coffee or tea. The Dutch equally love their licorice. Going to the Netherlands, tourists have many varieties to choose from, ranging from sweet to salty.

Australia’s favorite is soft and chewy licorice. Popular brands offer a range of flavors, such as mango, raspberry, and passionfruit. Thus, Australian licorice can be quite different from its counterparts. Fruit-flavored licorice, with classic red licorice twists like Twizzlers and Red Vines leading the pack, are the most popular varieties favored by Americans.

Licorice even finds its foothold in Asian countries where it is used in flavoring teas, snacks, and candies. Each area’s favorite licorice reflects the local tastes and traditions. So, it is a universal treat that transcends borders.

How to Select the Best Licorice For Your Taste

Ready to choose the perfect licorice for you? It starts with understanding your own preferences.

Do you like bold, herbal flavors?

If you do, you should opt for classic black licorice that’s made with authentic licorice root extract. 

What if you prefer a sweeter experience? 

The red licorice or fruit-flavored varieties like strawberry or cherry are probably more your style.

You’ll also want to consider the texture of your favorite licorice. You might enjoy a softer chewier treat that you get with Australian-style licorice with its creamy fillings. If, however, you would rather have a firmer bite, instead opt for traditional twists or wheels for a satisfying snap.

If nothing else, licorice is certainly versatile, so don’t be afraid to explore its unique options. Choose from salted licorice, sour varieties, or gourmet flavors that are bound to expand your palate.