10 Best Licorice Candy

Review Analysis Conclusion

Based on analysis of 99,666 reviews, the rankings above reflect a broad and consistently positive sample, but a few patterns are worth flagging. The top of the list is dominated by strawberry and cherry twists, which is exactly where review volume is heaviest, so the high scores there carry unusually strong statistical weight. Genuine black-licorice options sit slightly lower in score, largely because their audiences are smaller and more divided on flavor preference, not because the products themselves are inferior. Imported picks like the Dutch chalk licorice earn strong ratings from a comparatively niche reviewer pool, so individual experience may vary more than the headline score suggests. Across the board, buyers consistently praise freshness, chew texture, and resealable or jarred packaging, while the most common complaints involve occasional shipping-related crushing or minor inconsistencies in moisture between batches.

Buying Guide

Licorice is one of the most deceptively diverse candy categories on the shelf. A strawberry twist, a black Australian rope, and a Dutch chalk-style piece barely belong in the same conversation, yet they all show up under the licorice label. The right pick comes down to flavor family, chew style, package size, and how the candy fits into your daily routine.

Who Each Format Is Best For

• Long strawberry or cherry twists are the safe crowd-pleaser and a strong default for mixed households, lunchboxes, and movie nights.
• Pull-apart strands suit slow, hands-on snacking and anyone who enjoys the tactile ritual of peeling thin ribbons apart.
• Bite-sized pieces work best for road trips, offices, kids, and anyone who wants portion control without tearing or untangling.
• Australian-style black licorice is ideal for anise fans who want a denser, softer, more traditional chew than standard American twists.
• Dutch imports and chalk-style pieces are geared toward adventurous snackers and gift-givers who want a flavor profile that stands apart from domestic options.

When to Avoid Certain Picks

• If your household is split between licorice lovers and skeptics, avoid large tubs of anise-forward black licorice; the volume will outpace the willing eaters.
• If you live in a warm or humid kitchen, avoid soft, low-density twists stored in thin bags that may turn sticky or tacky after opening.
• If you need candy that travels in a bag or backpack, avoid jars and unwrapped ropes that crush easily under weight.
• If you are serving people unfamiliar with true licorice, avoid imported Dutch salmiak or strong black varieties, which can be an acquired taste.

Flavor and Texture Comparison

Key Specs to Scan Before Buying

• Package size: ranges from roughly 16 oz snack bags to 5 lb tubs; match to consumption rate rather than best price per ounce alone.
• Format: twist, pull-apart strand, bite, rope, or chalk-style shape changes the eating experience significantly.
• Closure type: resealable bags suit cupboards; wide-mouth jars suit counters and frequent grabbing.
• Flavor variety: multi-flavor packs reduce risk for mixed households; single-flavor bulk works for confirmed favorites.
• Origin: domestic twists, Australian imports, and Dutch imports each carry a distinct texture and taste signature.

Common Mistakes When Buying Licorice in Bulk

1. Chasing the largest size first. A five-pound tub only saves money if it actually gets eaten before it stales.
2. Ignoring storage conditions. Even sealed licorice can harden in dry, hot, or sunlit pantries over time.
3. Assuming all “licorice” tastes the same. Strawberry, cherry, red, and true black licorice are nearly different categories of candy.
4. Overlooking resealability. Once opened, a non-resealable bag accelerates staling; a jar or zip closure makes a meaningful difference.
5. Buying unfamiliar imports without a smaller trial. Two pounds of Dutch chalk licorice is a lot of commitment for a first-time buyer.

Storage and Freshness Tips

Most licorice keeps for months when unopened, but texture is fragile once the seal is broken. Keep opened bags in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight, and consider transferring bagged candy into an airtight container in humid climates. Wide-mouth jars are forgiving on a counter but should be closed tightly between servings. Signs of age include a hardened outer shell, faded aroma, or a grainy surface, so buy from listings with steady turnover and recent reviews for the freshest stock.

How to Read Reviews for Licorice

Review volume matters as much as star average. A 4.7-star product with tens of thousands of ratings is generally more dependable than a 4.9-star item with only a few hundred, because larger samples smooth out outliers. Look for recurring keywords like “fresh,” “soft,” “chewy,” and “true to flavor” as positive signals, and treat repeated mentions of “stale,” “hard,” or “tastes artificial” as warnings about supply or storage. If negative feedback focuses on crushed bags or shipping damage rather than the candy itself, that is a logistics issue, not a product flaw.

FAQ

Is black licorice actually licorice-flavored? Traditional black licorice carries true anise notes, while many popular red and strawberry twists are fruit-flavored and contain little to no licorice extract. Check the ingredient list if authentic flavor matters to you.

What is the difference between American and Australian black licorice? American black twists are typically firmer and chewier, while Australian-style black licorice is softer, denser, and often richer in molasses and anise.

How long does licorice stay fresh? Unopened licorice typically keeps for several months past purchase. Once opened, reseal or move it into an airtight container and use it within a few weeks for the best chew.

Are pull-apart strands just for kids? No. The peelable format simply changes the pace of snacking, slowing it down and turning it into a more interactive experience that appeals to many adults as well.

Is licorice safe to eat in large amounts? Licorice containing real licorice root can affect blood pressure when consumed in significant quantities over time. If you have cardiovascular concerns, are pregnant or nursing, or take medications, talk with a qualified clinician before making it a daily habit.

Final Recommendation

If you want the safest all-around choice, start with a well-reviewed strawberry twist that pairs a strong star average with deep review history. Households that go through candy quickly will get better value from two-pound or five-pound formats. Black-licorice fans should look toward the Australian-style option for a denser, more traditional chew, while the Dutch import is the pick for adventurous palates who want something genuinely different. For parties, lunchboxes, or car rides, bite-sized or pull-apart formats minimize mess and make sharing easier. The best licorice candy for you ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize classic fruit flavor, authentic anise depth, interactive texture, or bulk convenience, and the list above covers each angle with options backed by strong real-world feedback.