Gurley's: Candy Corn — THE American Halloween candy since 1953!

Every October, all across the US, bowls of Candy Corn appear on counters, in offices, in kids' trick-or-treat bags. This little tricolor candy — yellow at the base, orange in the middle, white at the top — is as iconic to Halloween as carved pumpkins and costumes. And Gurley's, since 1953 in Willmar, Minnesota, is one of the most authentic brands of this must-have candy. My American Market brings them to you straight from the States!

Did you know Candy Corn has divided America for over a century?

Candy Corn has existed since the 1880s — it was invented long before Halloween became the holiday we know today. Originally it was a "farm" candy sold year-round, shaped like a corn kernel to celebrate the American harvest. The yellow, orange and white colors weren't originally tied to Halloween — it was 1950s marketing that made Candy Corn the symbol of the holiday. Today it's one of the most divisive candies in the US: some love it for its melty honey-and-vanilla taste, others hate it for its waxy texture. But everyone has eaten it, and everyone has an opinion!

What exactly is Candy Corn?

Candy Corn is a melty candy made of sugar, corn syrup and honey, with a unique texture — neither hard nor soft, something in between, slightly waxy. Each piece is hand-shaped in three colored layers: the yellow base (the thickest, most golden part), the central orange band (the signature color of pumpkin and Halloween), and the white tip. The taste? Sweet, mellow, with notes of honey, vanilla and light caramel. It's a totally unique flavor you won't find in any other candy.

How to enjoy Candy Corn the American way?

Plain, straight from the bowl — the classic Halloween method. But Americans have their rituals: some eat Candy Corn layer by layer, starting with the white tip. Others mix it with salted peanuts — the famous "Scarecrow Mix" or "Harvest Mix" — to create an absolutely delicious sweet-and-salty contrast. And some use it to decorate Halloween cupcakes and cakes. Candy Corn is as much a festive decoration as a candy!

Gurley's Foods — the story of a Minnesota family

Gurley's Foods was founded in 1953 in Willmar, Minnesota, by a local family. For decades, the company passed through the hands of various private equity firms — until 2020, when Tom Taunton, son of a former co-owner, bought the company to save it from closure. A return to local roots for a brand that produces more than 50 varieties of candy and snacks under its Gurley's and Golden Recipe brands. The Golden Recipe range goes well beyond Candy Corn — roasted nuts, trail mixes, savory snacks — products that could join the MYAM shop soon!

Where to buy Gurley's Candy Corn in Europe?

Gurley's Candy Corn is impossible to find in regular European stores. My American Market, the hunter of American pop food, brings it to you straight from Minnesota. Express delivery!

Into American Halloween candy? Check out Peeps, Laffy Taffy and Tootsie Roll in our shop too!

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