Jelly Bean Brands: The Ones You Need To Know

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Jelly Beans – ar there any candis more delightful?

Their vast array of flavors, chewy texture and bright colors. What more could you want?

Well, more brands to try, of course.

So today, I would love to share some of the best jelly bean brands you absolutely need to try!

The Classic: Jelly Belly

When you think of jelly beans, there’s a good chance the first name that pops into your head is Jelly Belly.

This iconic brand has been crafting gourmet jelly beans since 1976, and it’s hard to deny their place at the top of the bean heap.

With over 100 flavors, Jelly Belly offers a mind-boggling variety of tastes ranging from traditional fruits and berries to more adventurous flavors like buttered popcorn and jalapeño.

As a self-confessed jelly bean aficionado, I’ve made it my mission to try every Jelly Belly flavor.


While I may not have conquered that goal just yet, I can confirm that their Very Cherry and Tutti-Fruitti beans are nothing short of life-changing.

The Nostalgic: Brach’s Classic Jelly Bird Eggs

A trip down memory lane wouldn’t be complete without Brach’s Classic Jelly Bird Eggs.

For many of us, these were the jelly beans of our childhoods, waiting to be discovered in Easter baskets and Halloween bags.

While Brach’s may not offer the sheer number of flavors that Jelly Belly does, they’ve perfected their lineup of eight classic tastes, including grape, cherry, and orange.

I have a soft spot for Brach’s because they were my first introduction to the world of jelly beans.

I still remember the excitement of sorting through my Easter basket to find a bag of those brightly colored beans, and to this day, the taste of Brach’s lemon jelly bean takes me right back to those carefree childhood days.

The Artisanal: Gimbals Fine Candies

If you’re looking for a jelly bean experience that’s a bit more elevated, look no further than Gimbals Fine Candies.

This San Francisco-based company is known for its commitment to quality, using real fruit juice and natural ingredients to create an indulgent and delicious treat.

With 41 flavors in their Gourmet Jelly Bean lineup, there’s something for everyone, from classic fruits to more unique options like ice cream cake and java.

I stumbled upon Gimbals at a specialty candy store and was immediately intrigued by their elegant packaging and impressive flavor list.

When I finally got to taste their beans, I was not disappointed.

Their Mango flavor was a standout, offering a tropical punch that instantly transported me to a sunny beach.

I also have to give an honorable mention to their pomegranate flavor, which was a strong contender against YumEarth’s Pomegranate Pucker.

The Budget-Friendly: Starburst Jelly Beans

Sometimes, you just need a reliable, affordable option that doesn’t break the bank – and that’s where Starburst Jelly Beans come in.

These brightly colored beans offer a taste of the iconic Starburst fruit chews in a fun, bite-sized format.

And with their relatively low price tag, they’re a great choice for filling up your candy dish or taking on the go.

Starburst Jelly Beans may not be the most gourmet option on this list, but they definitely deliver when it comes to flavor.

The cherry and strawberry beans are particularly tasty, offering that unmistakable Starburst fruitiness that has been a crowd-pleaser for decades.

The Vegan Choice: Surf Sweets Organic Jelly Beans

As more people embrace plant-based diets, it’s only natural that there’s a growing demand for vegan-friendly candy options.

Enter Surf Sweets Organic Jelly Beans.

These USDA-certified organic, vegan, and gluten-free jelly beans are perfect for those seeking a cruelty-free treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

When I first tried Surf Sweets, I was amazed at how similar they tasted to “regular” jelly beans.

Their Watermelon and Peach flavors were particularly impressive, offering a juicy, fruity burst that left me wanting more.

I couldn’t believe that a vegan jelly bean could taste this good – and I’m not even vegan!

The All-Natural: YumEarth

For those who prefer their sweets on the more health-conscious side, YumEarth is a must-try brand.

Their organic jelly beans are made with simple, natural ingredients and no artificial colors or flavors.

And the best part? They’re gluten-free, vegan, and allergen-friendly.

As someone who can’t resist trying new jelly bean brands, I was skeptical about how these “healthy” jelly beans would stack up against the competition.

But when I popped a few YumEarth beans into my mouth, I was pleasantly surprised.

Their Pomegranate Pucker flavor was particularly impressive – tangy, fruity, and utterly addictive.

The Out-of-the-Box: Vidal Gummi Candy

For those seeking a truly unique jelly bean experience, Vidal Gummi Candy should definitely be on your radar.

This Spanish confectionery company is known for its inventive gummy candies; their jelly bean offerings are no exception.

With intriguing options like Fried Egg, Spicy Mango, and Beer, Vidal’s jelly beans are perfect for adventurous candy lovers who crave something a little different.

I have to admit, when I first encountered Vidal’s jelly beans, I was both intrigued and slightly apprehensive.

But after trying their Fried Egg flavor, I was hooked.

The combination of sweet and savory was unlike anything I’d ever tasted in a jelly bean, and it quickly became a must-have in my candy collection.

The Sour Sensation: Warheads Sour Jelly Beans

Last but certainly not least, we have Warheads Sour Jelly Beans. These jelly beans are a dream come true for fans of sour candy.

Warheads are known for their intensely sour candies, and their jelly beans are no exception. With a sour coating surrounding a sweet, fruity center, these jelly beans are sure to make your taste buds tingle.

As someone who loves a good sour candy, I couldn’t wait to try Warheads Sour Jelly Beans. And let me tell you – they did not disappoint.

The initial sour hit was strong but not overwhelming, and the fruity flavors that followed were a perfect balance. If you’re a sour candy fan, you need to try these jelly beans.

Lastly

There you have it – a tour of the top jelly bean brands curated by your friendly neighborhood candy expert. 

Whether you’re a fan of the classics or seeking something more adventurous, there’s a jelly bean out there for you. 

So go ahead and indulge your sweet tooth with one (or all) of these incredible brands. 

After all, life’s too short not to enjoy the little things – especially when those little things are bean-shaped and bursting with flavor.

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