Jolly Rancher: born in a Colorado ice cream shop in 1949 — America's most intense fruity candy!

On May 28, 1949 in Golden, Colorado, Dorothy and Bill Harmsen opened the Jolly Rancher Ice Cream Store right after passing under the famous "Howdy Folks, Welcome to Golden!" arch. The name? "Rancher" for Colorado's western atmosphere, "Jolly" for good cheer. But ice cream sold poorly in Colorado winters. The Harmsens pivoted to chocolate, then to hard candy — and it was a revolution. Their cinnamon Fire Stix were a hit, and the Jolly Rancher range exploded. Acquired by Hershey Company in 1996, Jolly Rancher is today one of America's most beloved candy brands. My American Market brings you the full range!

Did you know Jolly Rancher almost stayed as ice cream?

Colorado winters are harsh. Those early years, Dorothy and Bill Harmsen lost money every time snow fell. That seasonal constraint pushed them to develop candy — a product that sells year-round. By pivoting to hard candies with their intensely fruity, brilliantly flavoured formula, they created something radically different from the candy of the era. Cherry, Watermelon, Green Apple, Blue Raspberry, Grape — the 5 iconic flavours that generations of Americans know by heart.

The Jolly Rancher range at MYAM

Jolly Rancher Hard Candy — the originals since 1949! Translucent hard candy in the 5 iconic flavours. Each piece contains an intense fruity explosion that lasts. Blue Raspberry is the star — American blue raspberry, tangy and sweet at once. Hard Candy Tropical extends to exotic flavours. And Zero Sugar for those who want Jolly Rancher intensity without the sugar.

Jolly Rancher Gummies — the chewy version! Original Flavors for classics, Sour Berries for sour fans, Sour Tropical for the exotic, and the revolutionary Sour 2 Flavors In 1 Lemonade — two flavours in one gummy!

Jolly Rancher Chews — chewy and masticable, the flavour diffuses slowly. Ropes in Blue Raspberry & Cherry or Watermelon & Green Apple twists. Chewy Poppers that pop in the mouth.

Singles To Go! — powder to dissolve in water for a Jolly Rancher drink anywhere. Freezer Pops — freeze at home for the ultimate American summer ice pop. 2in1 Gummies Misfits — two distinct flavours in one gummy piece with unexpected combinations.

Jolly Rancher tasting tip

Hard Candy Jolly Rancher shouldn't be bitten — let them melt slowly in your mouth for the flavour to fully develop. For a homemade Jolly Rancher lemonade: dissolve 2-3 Blue Raspberry candies in a glass of cold sparkling water. A summer drink that's so good!

Where to buy Jolly Rancher in Europe?

Jolly Rancher is impossible to find in European supermarkets. My American Market, your American grocery store online, imports it straight from the USA. Express delivery across Europe!

Into fruity American candy? Also check out Skittles, Airheads and Starburst in our shop!

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