The Mystery Of A Nastalgic Holloween Candy: Are They A Trick Or A Treat?

Back in the day, when I would go trick or treating, there were always certain candies you just loved to get and if it was gum, that was the ultimate prize. I was never picky unless I received just this one candy. I never knew what they were called, but just knew them by the black and orange wrappers. They were just plain awful. In my mind, it was the equivalent of receiving a packet of mayo. Not too long ago I was walking in through the candy aisle of Farm and Fleet, and there they were. I almost bought them as a gag but rightfully decided to put them back.

The infamous Halloween candy in the orange and black wrapper—better known as peanut butter kisses. Loved by some but disliked by many, these candies have become somewhat notorious, regularly topping lists of the worst Halloween candy. They’ve earned a reputation as the treat most likely to be left uneaten at the bottom of a candy haul or exchanged in candy swaps.

PEANUT BUTTER KISSES - TRICK OR TREAT!

Peanut butter kisses are chewy, taffy-like candies that come individually wrapped in orange and black waxy paper. Their flavor profile is a mix of salty peanut butter and a sugary, almost caramel-like taste, which should, in theory, appeal to peanut butter fans. However, many find the candy too sticky and hard to chew, with an overly sweet and artificial flavor. For kids, the tough, chewy texture can be a struggle, and unlike chocolate or fruit-flavored treats, peanut butter kisses lack the immediate appeal of more popular options.

SO WHY DO THEY CALL A CARVED PUMPKIN A JACK O' LANTERN?

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One reason these candies remain unpopular might be their association with an old-fashioned aesthetic. Unlike Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, which offer a smooth blend of chocolate and peanut butter, peanut butter kisses stick to a more retro formula, evoking memories of simpler times—whether we want them or not! As such, they’ve often been relegated to the “meh” category, viewed as a leftover from previous generations’ candy jars.

PEANUT BUTTER KISSES ARE THE PERFECT CANDY TO PITCH

Despite the criticism, peanut butter kisses have their own niche fanbase who appreciate the candy’s unique texture and nostalgic flavor. So, while they may remain in the running for “worst Halloween candy” among many, peanut butter kisses still bring a piece of Halloween history to each trick-or-treat season.