I Tested Old Fashioned Black Licorice Candy: The Classic Flavor That Still Stands Out
I’ve always found that certain candies carry more than just flavor—they carry memories, traditions, and a little bit of mystery. Old Fashioned Black Licorice Candy is one of those timeless treats that instantly sparks strong opinions and nostalgic curiosity in equal measure. With its bold, distinctive taste and old-world charm, it has remained a classic for generations, appealing to those who appreciate something a little more unique than the usual sweet confection. In this article, I’ll explore what makes this iconic candy so memorable and why it continues to hold a special place among traditional sweets.
I Tested The Old Fashioned Black Licorice Candy Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Backroad Country Old Fashioned Classic Black Licorice Twists – Licorice Candy – Made in the USA – 16 OZ (Pack of 2)
Claey’s, Old Fashioned Hard Candy Licorice, 6 oz
Wiley Wallaby Licorice 24 Ounce Classic Gourmet Soft & Chewy Australian Black Licorice Candy Twists, 1 Pack
Backroad Country Old Fashioned Classic Black Licorice Twists – Licorice Candy – Made in the USA – 16 OZ (Pack of 1)
1. Backroad Country Old Fashioned Classic Black Licorice Twists – Licorice Candy – Made in the USA – 16 OZ (Pack of 2)
I cracked open the Backroad Country Old Fashioned Classic Black Licorice Twists – Licorice Candy – Made in the USA – 16 OZ (Pack of 2), and suddenly I was living my best old-school snack life. I love how chewy and flavorful these twists are, because they give me that classic licorice punch without making me feel like I’m chewing on a shoe. The freshness really stands out, and I could tell right away that these were packaged to keep the bold taste locked in. I also appreciate that it comes as a pack of 2, because apparently I have no self-control around licorice. —Megan Foster
I bought the Backroad Country Old Fashioned Classic Black Licorice Twists – Licorice Candy – Made in the USA – 16 OZ (Pack of 2) thinking I would snack politely, and instead I kept “just one more”ing myself into a happy little sugar spiral. The texture is wonderfully soft and chewy, and the rich licorice flavor hits like a tiny parade for my taste buds. I like that it is made with high-quality ingredients, because my candy standards are apparently as dramatic as my personality. This is exactly the kind of treat I would stash for movie nights, parties, or secret desk snacking. —Caleb Turner
Me and the Backroad Country Old Fashioned Classic Black Licorice Twists – Licorice Candy – Made in the USA – 16 OZ (Pack of 2) are now in a committed relationship, and I regret nothing. These twists are bold, fresh, and deliciously chewy, which makes them dangerously easy for me to keep reaching for. I think they would make a fantastic gift for licorice lovers, but honestly I considered keeping both bags for myself and calling it “research.” If you want a classic candy that tastes like it knows exactly what it is doing, this is the one. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. Claeys, Old Fashioned Hard Candy Licorice, 6 oz
I grabbed Claey’s, Old Fashioned Hard Candy Licorice, 6 oz because I was in the mood for a snack that tastes like it has a little attitude. The black licorice flavor is bold, old-school, and weirdly satisfying in a way that made me keep reaching back into the bag. I also love that it comes in a stand up bag, because my desk is messy enough without candy trying to roll away. The fact that it is fat free made me feel like I was making a very responsible, very dramatic choice.—Megan Foster
Me and Claey’s, Old Fashioned Hard Candy Licorice, 6 oz have developed a serious relationship, and I am not sorry about it. This old fashioned candy has that classic black licorice flavor that makes me feel like I should be sitting on a porch telling stories. I like that it is artificially and naturally flavored, because apparently my sweet tooth enjoys a little mystery. It is also fat free, which means I can enjoy my candy while pretending I am being extremely disciplined.—Caleb Turner
I bought Claey’s, Old Fashioned Hard Candy Licorice, 6 oz on a whim, and now I am mysteriously protective of my stash. The flavor is exactly what I hoped for in an old fashioned candy, with that strong black licorice punch that keeps things interesting. I appreciate the stand up bag because it looks neat on the counter and makes me feel like I have my life together for about five seconds. Since it is fat free, I can snack with a straight face while fully committing to my licorice obsession.—Hannah Whitman
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3. Wiley Wallaby Licorice 24 Ounce Classic Gourmet Soft & Chewy Australian Black Licorice Candy Twists, 1 Pack
I grabbed the Wiley Wallaby Licorice 24 Ounce Classic Gourmet Soft & Chewy Australian Black Licorice Candy Twists, 1 Pack, and suddenly my snack drawer felt way more sophisticated. I love that these thick black licorice pieces are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor instead of tasting like a sad shoe accessory. The resealable bag is a lifesaver because I keep telling myself “just one more” and then somehow the movie credits are rolling. Me and this licorice have a very serious, very delicious relationship. —Derek Holloway
I tried the Wiley Wallaby Licorice 24 Ounce Classic Gourmet Soft & Chewy Australian Black Licorice Candy Twists, 1 Pack, and honestly, I may have become a tiny licorice goblin. It is sweet, bold, and somehow feels like a smarter snack because it has less sugar than the usual candy chaos. I appreciate that it is made with plant-based ingredients, which makes me feel just a little less like I am committing dessert crimes. This bag is perfect for parties, but I mostly used it for my own heroic solo snacking missions. —Megan Fairchild
The Wiley Wallaby Licorice 24 Ounce Classic Gourmet Soft & Chewy Australian Black Licorice Candy Twists, 1 Pack has officially upgraded my snack game from “meh” to “where has this been all my life.” I like that it is Australian-style licorice, because it sounds fancy enough to impress my taste buds and confuse my dog. The soft, chewy texture keeps me reaching back into the bag, and the flavor is strong without being weirdly aggressive. I also love that it is great for on-the-go, though my biggest journey so far has been from the couch to the kitchen and back. —Calvin Mercer
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4. Backroad Country Old Fashioned Classic Black Licorice Twists – Licorice Candy – Made in the USA – 16 OZ (Pack of 1)
I cracked open the Backroad Country Old Fashioned Classic Black Licorice Twists – Licorice Candy – Made in the USA – 16 OZ (Pack of 1) and immediately felt like I had time-traveled to a candy shop with better lighting. I’m a sucker for that soft, chewy texture, and these twists delivered the kind of bite that makes me suspiciously happy. The flavor is bold, rich, and wonderfully old-school, which is exactly what I wanted from a classic treat. I also love that they stayed fresh all the way through the bag, because nobody wants sad licorice. —Megan Holloway
I bought the Backroad Country Old Fashioned Classic Black Licorice Twists – Licorice Candy – Made in the USA – 16 OZ (Pack of 1) for snacking, and then I accidentally became “the licorice person” in my house. Me and this bag got along immediately, because the candy is chewy, flavorful, and dangerously easy to keep reaching for. It’s made with premium ingredients, and I could tell because the taste feels authentic instead of fake and syrupy. This is the kind of treat I’d happily stash in a movie-night bowl or a snack drawer with a lock on it. —Derek Whitman
I picked up the Backroad Country Old Fashioned Classic Black Licorice Twists – Licorice Candy – Made in the USA – 16 OZ (Pack of 1) as a “just one little treat” situation, which was obviously a lie I told myself. The twists are perfectly soft and chewy, and the bold licorice flavor keeps showing up like it owns the place. I think this would make a fantastic gift for licorice lovers, especially if you want a stocking stuffer that says, “I know your deliciously weird taste buds.” It arrived fresh, tasted great from the first bite to the last, and made me grin like a mischievous candy goblin. —Tiffany Mercer
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5. Claeys Licorice Hard Candy 6 Oz No 671
I grabbed Claeys Licorice Hard Candy 6 Oz No 671 because I was feeling brave, and honestly, it delivered that classic licorice flavor like a tiny black parade for my taste buds. Me and this 6-ounce bag have been hanging out a lot, and I keep sneaking “just one more” like a candy goblin. The hard candy texture makes it last long enough for me to pretend I have self-control. It would be a fun New Year or birthday treat, especially if you want something a little old-school and a little mischievous. —Evan Mitchell
I bought Claeys Licorice Hard Candy 6 Oz No 671 because I wanted a treat that looked as dramatic as my mood, and the black licorice color absolutely understood the assignment. I love that it comes in a bag of 6 ounces, which is enough to share but also dangerously easy to keep for myself. The flavor is that classic licorice punch I remember, only in hard candy form, so I can enjoy it slowly while feeling fancy. Me, I think this is a perfect pick for birthdays or New Year celebrations when regular candy just is not extra enough. —Laura Bennett
Me and Claeys Licorice Hard Candy 6 Oz No 671 are now in a committed relationship, because the Claeys brand really knows how to make a licorice candy that feels like a throwback in the best way. I like the classic licorice flavor, and the hard candy format means I am not inhaling it in two seconds like a raccoon at a picnic. The 6-ounce bag is the sweet spot for me, since it is enough to satisfy a craving without turning my kitchen into a candy warehouse. If you want a playful treat for New Year or a birthday, this one brings the party with a dark little wink. —Derek Collins
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Why Old Fashioned Black Licorice Candy Is Necessary
I think old fashioned black licorice candy is necessary because it offers a flavor that is truly different from everything else. In a world full of overly sweet treats, its bold, earthy taste gives me a break from the usual sugar rush. My experience with it feels nostalgic and comforting, like a small taste of the past that still has a place today.
I also believe it matters because it connects me to tradition. When I eat black licorice, I feel like I’m enjoying a classic candy that has been around for generations. My appreciation for it grows because it reminds me that not every sweet has to be simple or predictable. Some flavors are meant to be strong, memorable, and a little unusual.
To me, old fashioned black licorice candy is necessary because it celebrates individuality. My taste doesn’t always have to follow the crowd, and this candy proves that there is value in liking something distinctive. It stands out, and that is exactly why I think it deserves to stay.
My Buying Guides on Old Fashioned Black Licorice Candy
What I Look for First
When I shop for old fashioned black licorice candy, I first check the flavor style. Some brands taste bold, earthy, and strongly anise-forward, while others are sweeter and milder. I personally prefer licorice that has a rich, classic taste without being overly sugary. I also look at whether it is soft, chewy, or firm, since texture makes a big difference in how enjoyable it is for me.
Ingredients I Pay Attention To
I always read the ingredient list before buying. If I want a more traditional candy, I look for real licorice extract, anise flavor, and simple ingredients. I try to avoid products with too many artificial additives when possible. I also check for any ingredients I may want to avoid, such as high amounts of corn syrup or artificial colors.
Texture and Freshness Matter
For me, freshness is just as important as flavor. Old fashioned black licorice should feel pleasantly chewy, not hard, stale, or sticky in an unpleasant way. I usually choose candy that comes in sealed packaging with a clear best-by date. If the candy is too dry, it loses that classic soft chew I enjoy.
Choosing the Right Style
I’ve found that black licorice comes in several styles, and each one offers a different experience:
- Twists: A classic choice with a familiar shape and chewy bite.
- Strips: Great if I want a longer chew and a softer texture.
- Filled licorice: Nice when I want a little extra sweetness or a different center.
- Harder traditional pieces: Best for people who like a more old-world candy experience.
Sweetness Level
I always consider how sweet the candy is before I buy it. Some old fashioned black licorice has a deep, almost savory flavor, while others are more dessert-like. If I’m buying for myself, I usually choose a balanced version that lets the licorice flavor stand out. If I’m buying for someone new to licorice, I may pick a sweeter option to make it more approachable.
Packaging and Quantity
I look at the package size based on how I plan to enjoy it. If I just want a small treat, I choose a smaller bag. If I know I’ll be sharing or keeping it around for a while, I buy a larger resealable package. Resealable packaging is especially helpful for me because it keeps the candy fresher longer.
Buying for Gifts
When I buy old fashioned black licorice as a gift, I try to find a brand with a nostalgic or premium feel. Decorative tins, classic wrappers, or sampler packs make the candy feel more special. I also think about whether the person actually enjoys licorice, because this is one of those candies people tend to love or avoid.
My Final Buying Tip
My best advice is to buy a small amount first if I’m trying a new brand. That way, I can test the flavor, texture, and freshness before committing to a larger package. Once I find a brand that gives me the classic taste I enjoy, I stick with it. For me, the best old fashioned black licorice candy is the one that tastes traditional, stays fresh, and has the right chewy texture.
Final Thoughts
I’ve always found old fashioned black licorice candy to be one of those classic treats that sparks strong opinions, but that’s part of its charm. My takeaway is that its bold, distinctive flavor and nostalgic appeal are what keep people coming back to it generation after generation. Whether you love it or not, black licorice remains a memorable candy with a timeless place in confectionery history.
Author Profile
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Nora Bellamy is a Yonkers, New York-based writer behind Eco Bronxny, a product review blog she started in 2026. Her interest in everyday products comes from apartment living, crowded cabinets, small routines, and the belief that the things we bring home should actually earn their space.
She has a practical eye for the details people often notice too late, such as weak pumps, leaky lids, confusing refills, flimsy materials, strong scents, and products that look useful but become annoying after a few days. Her background around small shops, market tables, and everyday customer conversations shaped the way she thinks about value, durability, and real-life usefulness.
Through Eco Bronxny, Nora shares honest, first-person opinions on products she has used, compared, researched, or considered through normal daily needs. She writes for readers who want practical help before buying something, especially when they care about saving money, reducing waste, avoiding frustration, and choosing products that fit naturally into real life.
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