Jelly beans are a popular and beloved candy enjoyed by people of all ages. With a wide variety of flavors and textures available, jelly beans offer a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth. In this article, we will explore the 13 best jelly bean brands, highlighting their key features and what sets them apart from the rest. Whether you’re a jelly bean connoisseur or just looking for a tasty snack, this guide will help you make an informed decision when choosing your next bag of jelly beans.
Jelly Bean Selection Criteria
Several factors come into play when evaluating the best jelly bean brands. Here are the most important criteria to consider when choosing the perfect jelly beans:
1. Flavors
Jelly beans come in a wide range of flavors, from traditional fruit flavors to more unique and adventurous options. The best jelly bean brands offer a wide variety of flavors so you can find your personal favorites or try something new. Look for packages that clearly indicate which flavors are included, giving you the freedom to choose according to your preferences.
2. Texture
Texture is an essential aspect of the jelly bean experience. A well-crafted jelly bean should have a slightly harder, sugary exterior that gives way to a soft, chewy interior. Finding the right balance is critical, as the jelly bean should not be too soft or mushy, nor should it be too hard and difficult to chew.
3. Ingredients
While jelly beans aren’t typically thought of as a health food, it’s worth considering the ingredients used to make them. Some brands offer low-sugar, gluten-free, vegetarian and even vegan jelly beans to accommodate a wider variety of dietary preferences. Checking the ingredients list for artificial flavors, high-fructose corn syrup, and other additives can help you make a more informed choice.
4. Taste
The taste of jelly beans is what makes them so enjoyable. Choosing brands that use natural flavors and ingredients can enhance the authenticity and quality of the flavors. A jelly bean made with real fruit juice often has a more pronounced and satisfying flavor than one made with artificial flavors. In addition, a good jelly bean should strike a balance between sweetness and subtle acidity, avoiding an overwhelming sugary taste.
5. Bag size
Consider your jelly bean needs before buying a bag. If you’re looking for a small snack, a small bag is fine. However, if you want to keep a stash of jelly beans on hand or need them for parties or events, you may want to consider a larger bag size.
The 13 Best Jelly Bean Brands
Now that we understand the criteria for choosing the best jelly beans, let’s dive into the top 13 brands on the market:
1. Jelly Belly 50 Flavors
Jelly Belly is a popular brand known for its wide variety of flavors and high-quality jelly beans. Their 50 Flavors package is a popular choice among jelly bean lovers. The 3-pound resealable bag contains an assortment of flavors made with real fruit puree/juice. Jelly Belly’s commitment to authentic flavors and its balance of sweet and tart make it a top contender in the jelly bean market.
2. Starburst Jelly Beans Original Fruit Flavors
Starburst, a well-known candy brand, offers a delightful twist on jelly beans with its Original Fruit Flavors. Packaged in a 3-pound jar with a resealable lid, these jelly beans feature classic Starburst flavors including cherry, orange, strawberry, lemon, green apple and grape. The blend of natural and artificial flavors provides the burst of fruit that Starburst is known for.
3. Welch’s Assorted Fruit Flavored Jelly Beans
Welch’s, a trusted name in fruit-based products, brings its expertise to the jelly bean market with Assorted Fruit Flavored Jelly Beans. These jelly beans offer a unique selection of fruit flavors including Concord Grape, White Grape, Peach and Raspberry. Made with natural and artificial flavors, Welch’s Fruit Flavored Jelly Beans deliver a taste reminiscent of your favorite fruit juices.
4. Skittles Jelly Beans
Skittles, known for its colorful and fruity candies, introduces a jelly bean version that is sure to please candy lovers. Skittles Jellybeans feature the original flavors fans know and love, including grape, lime, lemon, strawberry and orange. With a soft and chewy texture, these jelly beans deliver a burst of fruity flavor that Skittles is known for.
5. Brach’s Classic Jelly Beans
Brach’s Classic Jelly Beans are a timeless favorite among jelly bean lovers. These fruity, chewy and sweet jelly beans come in a variety of vibrant colors and flavors. Brach’s uses high-quality ingredients to create a delicious candy that has stood the test of time. The large size of these jelly beans ensures a satisfying snacking experience.
6. Jelly Belly Beanboozled Mystery Jelly Beans
For those looking for a unique and playful jelly bean experience, Jelly Belly’s Beanboozled Mystery Jelly Beans are a must-try. These jelly beans come in pairs, with each color having two possible flavors-one delicious and one strange. The element of surprise adds an exciting twist to the jelly bean tasting adventure.
7. Jelly Belly Extreme Sport Beans
Jelly Belly also caters to athletes and fitness enthusiasts with its Extreme Sport Beans. These jelly beans are specially formulated to provide an energy boost during exercise. Packed with carbohydrates, electrolytes, and vitamins, they are a convenient and delicious way to fuel your active lifestyle.
8. Brach’s Tiny Jelly Bird Eggs
Brach’s Tiny Jelly Bird Eggs are a seasonal favorite, especially at Easter. These petite jelly beans come in pastel colors and offer a burst of fruity flavor. Their small size makes them perfect for snacking or decorating festive treats.
9. Jolly Rancher Jelly Beans
Jolly Rancher, known for its tangy and bold hard candies, brings its signature flavors to the world of jelly beans. Jolly Rancher Jelly Beans feature iconic fruit flavors including green apple, cherry, watermelon, grape and blue raspberry. With their intense flavor and chewy texture, these jelly beans provide a satisfying and long-lasting taste experience.
10. Brach’s Black Jelly Bird Eggs
Brach’s Black Jelly Bird Eggs are a unique addition to the jelly bean market. With their licorice flavor, these jelly beans offer a distinct and bold taste. If you’re a fan of black licorice, these jelly beans are a must try.
11. Surf Sweets Organic Jelly Beans
For those looking for organic and allergen-friendly options, Surf Sweets Organic Jelly Beans are an excellent choice. Made with organic fruit juice and sweeteners, these jelly beans are free of artificial colors and flavors. They are also gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan, making them suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
12. Albanese gummi bears
Albanese, known for its high-quality gummy candies, offers a unique twist on jelly beans with its Gummi Bears. These chewy, fruit-flavored jelly beans have a texture similar to gummy bears, combining two beloved candies into one delicious treat.
13. Gimbal’s Gourmet Jelly Beans
Gimbal’s Gourmet Jelly Beans are a gourmet option for jelly bean lovers. These beans are made with real fruit juice and come in a variety of flavors, including classic fruit flavors as well as more exotic options such as pomegranate, mango and licorice. Gimbal’s commitment to quality and taste makes their jelly beans a top choice for those seeking a premium candy experience.
Bottom Line
Choosing the best jelly bean brand is a matter of personal preference, but considering factors such as flavors, texture, ingredients, taste and bag size can help guide your decision. The 13 brands highlighted in this article offer a wide range of options to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you prefer traditional fruit flavors, adventurous combinations, or organic and allergen-friendly options, there’s a jelly bean brand for you. Enjoy the delightful world of jelly beans and indulge in the sweet and colorful experience they provide.
FAQS
Can jelly beans be part of a vegetarian or vegan diet?
Yes, some brands of jelly beans offer options that are suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets. Look for brands that clearly state that they are made without gelatin or other animal-derived ingredients.
Are there gluten-free jelly bean options?
Absolutely! Many jelly bean brands now offer gluten-free options, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Check the package or brand website for gluten-free certifications or statements.
Do any of the recommended jelly bean brands use natural flavors?
Yes, several of the top jelly bean brands on our list prioritize the use of natural flavors. These brands often incorporate real fruit juice or puree, which results in authentic and delicious flavors. Check the product descriptions or ingredient lists for brands that highlight their use of natural flavors.
What is the ideal texture of a jelly bean?
A well-crafted jelly bean should have a slightly harder, sugary exterior that gives way to a soft, chewy interior. It should not be too soft or mushy, nor too hard and difficult to chew. The ideal texture strikes a balance between the two and provides a satisfying chew.
Are there allergy-friendly jelly bean options?
Yes, some jelly bean brands cater to people with common allergies. Look for brands that offer allergen-friendly options, such as those that are free of nuts, gluten, dairy, or soy. These brands often have special labels or certifications to indicate their allergen-friendly status.
Can I find jelly beans with unique or adventurous flavors?
Absolutely! Many jelly bean brands offer unique and adventurous flavors beyond the traditional fruit options. Look for brands that offer a wide variety of flavors or limited-edition releases to explore new taste sensations.