The Definitive Ranking of Worst and Best Halloween Candies
Preferences change every year, and keeping up with the latest trends in Halloween candy can be a daunting task. Kids these days have tastes that might baffle grown-ups, and with the sheer variety of bulk candy options out there, it's hard to know what will be a hit or miss in those treat bags.
Decision fatigue is real, especially with endless candy options online and in stores. We're here to cut through the noise, helping you choose the most popular Halloween candy and avoid the duds with our data-driven guide.
How did we do it? By going straight to the source.
This year, we surveyed 10,000 customers from our online candy store to get their honest feedback. No guesswork, no mixed data from other lists—just the pure opinions of candy lovers across the board. With their input, we ranked the best and worst Halloween candies, giving you a clear roadmap to success when it comes to choosing your candy.
Ellie Kemper: "Tastes like medicine" ...ouch
Ready to dive in? Here’s our ultimate ranking based entirely on this year’s survey results. And remember, the opinions expressed here reflect the voices of candy enthusiasts everywhere—not just a single candy blog writer. Now, let’s get to it!
Oh and please keep in mind, the opinions expressed here are not those of CandyStore.com. They are inferred from the data by a mere candy blog writer.
Without further ado:
The 10 Worst Halloween Candies
#10 Worst. Good & Plenty ( was Tootsie Rolls)
Good & Plenty makes an unfortunate debut on the “worst” list this year, sneaking into the #10 spot. These pink-and-white licorice candies have been around for generations, but their divisive flavor is what likely earned them a spot on this year’s ranking. While some swear by the bold, anise-infused taste, most trick-or-treaters would rather find just about anything else in their Halloween candy haul.
It’s not just the flavor that causes the issue; it’s also the texture. Those glossy candy shells crack open to reveal a chewy, licorice core that isn’t exactly kid-friendly.
Ranking change this year: New to the list
#9 Worst. Bit-O-Honey
Firmly holding its ground at #9, Bit-O-Honey is still puzzling many candy enthusiasts. With its chewy texture and honey-almond flavor, it's an acquired taste, to say the least. While some fans appreciate its vintage vibe, most modern trick-or-treaters prefer their sweets without the dental gymnastics. Bit-O-Honey remains a cautionary tale of a flavor combo that just doesn’t quite hit the sweet spot.
Ranking change this year: no change.
#8 Worst. Smarties
Smarties managed to climb one spot out of infamy, moving from #7 to #8. Though less unpopular than before, they still carry that "dry and chalky" reputation. You'll likely see these little disks of powdery sweetness in abundance, yet most will end up at the bottom of the treat bags, untouched and unloved. A small victory for Smarties, but they have a long way to go before they're out of the Halloween doghouse.
Ranking change this year: Down from #7
#7 Worst. Black Licorice
Black licorice has made an unfortunate ascent to #7 this year. Its strong, savory flavor continues to divide candy lovers. While Twizzlers live on as the fruity favorite, pure black licorice just can't seem to keep up with the sugary delights kids are after. It's hanging in there, but its polarizing taste keeps it firmly on the “trick” side of Halloween.
Ranking change this year: Up from #9
#6 Worst. Wax Coke Bottles
Still kinda hanging around at #5, was #6 in 2021
Sliding slightly down to #6, Wax Coke Bottles are still hanging around in the worst list. These candy relics are more about the novelty than actual enjoyment. Sure, they were fun as kids, but most have since realized they’re chewing on wax for a small squirt of sugar water. Not exactly the treat you hope for in your Halloween haul.
Ranking change this year: Down from #5
#5 Worst. Mary Janes - was #6 last year
Mary Janes have inched up a spot to #5. After making a comeback on the candy scene, they seemed ready for a fresh start. But Halloween trick-or-treaters have spoken, and it’s clear that peanut butter and molasses just don’t evoke the excitement that other candies do. It's a valiant effort, but Halloween might be looking for a bit more excitement than this classic candy offers.
Ranking change this year: Up from #6
#4 Worst. Necco Wafers
Alright, so these throwbacks had their drama moment a few years ago and dipped for a while, but guess what? They're back in the game! Anyone remember the Necco Wafer Panic of 2018? Wild times.
Necco Wafers took a step back from the podium of unpopular candies, moving from #3 to #4. While some enthusiasts welcomed their return, others still aren’t buying into the chalky texture and subtle flavors. They may not be the worst of the worst, but they’re certainly not winning over the masses.
Ranking change this year: Down from #3
#3 Worst. Candy Corn
Candy Corn's polarizing nature has kept it in the top tier of worst candies, yet it has slightly improved from #2 to #3. Some appreciate its sweet simplicity, while others dismiss it as pure sugar overload. Despite this divisive opinion, it's clear that Candy Corn still has a place in the Halloween debate, love it or hate it.
It's obviously not for everybody. But I'm all about the candy corn. Don't @ me, but if you're not vibing with candy corn, just slide it my way. It's pure sugary goodness – isn't that what candy's all about?
Ranking change this year: Down from #2
#2 Worst. Peanut Butter Kisses
A surprising move up to #2, Peanut Butter Kisses have failed to capture the hearts of trick-or-treaters yet again. Often mistaken for Mary Janes due to their plain black and orange wrappers, they offer neither the charm of Reese's nor the indulgence of other peanut butter candies. Seems like they'll need more than a classic appeal to escape the worst list next year.
Ranking change this year: Up from #4
#1 Worst. Circus Peanuts
And here they are, once again reigning as the least-loved Halloween candy: Circus Peanuts. Despite some candies making bold moves up and down the rankings this year, Circus Peanuts held onto the #1 spot like a bad habit.
For many, it’s no surprise that these spongy, banana-flavored, oddly orange marshmallow treats remain at the bottom of the Halloween candy barrel. They’ve managed to outlast all contenders, continuing their legacy as the candy most people would rather not find in their trick-or-treat bag.
But what is it about Circus Peanuts that makes them so infamous? Some argue it’s the bizarre flavor—a strange cross between artificial banana and sugar overload.
Others point to the texture, which hovers somewhere between foam and stale marshmallow, leaving a lot to be desired. Then there’s the mystery: why do they look like peanuts when they taste like anything but? Circus Peanuts simply defy logic, and perhaps that’s part of the reason they remain so unpopular.
Despite their place as the worst Halloween candy year after year, Circus Peanuts have an undeniable nostalgic charm. For a select few, they’re a quirky reminder of a bygone era of sweets.
However, for the vast majority of trick-or-treaters, they’re the candy equivalent of a "trick" on Halloween night. They’ve held this notorious title for good reason, and it looks like their spot at the bottom isn’t changing anytime soon.
Ranking change this year: Unchanged
The 10 Best Halloween Candies
Now for the good stuff. Many of these candies won’t surprise you—they're fan favorites for a reason. But if you’re curious to see how your personal favorites rank, here's our breakdown of the top Halloween candies of all time.
Sorry, Skittles
Before we dive into the top 10 best candies, we need to talk about a shocking change this year. Skittles, a long-time favorite, didn't make the cut. Yes, you read that right.
The vibrant, fruity treat that ranked #5 last year has fallen completely off the list. It's a surprising twist that will leave many candy lovers feeling a little bittersweet. Hopefully, Skittles can bounce back in the future, but for now, let’s get into the candies that made the top 10 this year.
Ranking change this year: Afuera!
#10 Best. Nerds
After a brief hiatus, Nerds have reclaimed their spot in the top 10 for the first time since 2021. Their sweet, tangy, and crunchy charm makes them a crowd favorite once again. It’s a comeback worthy of celebration!
Ranking change this year: New (again) to the list
#9 Best. Butterfinger
Butterfinger managed to climb up a notch from #10 to #9. Its crunchy, peanut-buttery core coated in chocolate still delights trick-or-treaters. While not everyone is sold on its unique texture, a bite-sized Butterfinger can be a sweet highlight in any candy haul.
Ranking change this year: Up from #10
#8 Best. Twix
Twix continues to impress, moving up to #8 this year. Its irresistible combination of cookie, caramel, and chocolate has solidified its place as a Halloween favorite. The fun-sized versions are perfect for trick-or-treat bags, offering just the right balance of crunch and sweetness.
Ranking change this year: Up from #9
#7 Best. Hershey Bars
The classic Hershey Bar, along with its Cookies 'n' Cream variant, holds steady at #7. Their timeless appeal and familiar taste make them a must-have in any Halloween candy lineup. Plus, the assorted mini versions provide a fun variety for chocolate lovers.
Ranking change this year: Unchanged
#6 Best. Kit Kat - was #8 last year
Kit Kat makes a sweet climb to #6. With its simple yet satisfying blend of chocolate and wafer, it's a Halloween staple. The fun-sized bars offer just enough crunch to leave you craving more. No wonder it’s back on the rise this year!
Ranking change this year: Up from #8
#5 Best. Hot Tamales
Hot Tamales have cooled off slightly, dropping to #5. Their spicy cinnamon flavor may not be for everyone, but those who love a little heat in their candy keep them in high demand. They're here to bring some fiery fun to Halloween.
Ranking change this year: Down from #4
#4 Best. Sour Patch Kids
Climbing up to #4, Sour Patch Kids continue to charm candy lovers with their tart-to-sweet transformation. They bring a refreshing change to the usual Halloween candy scene, proving that the blend of sour and sweet is still a winner.
Ranking change this year: Up from #6
#3 Best. M&Ms
M&Ms took a slight tumble from #2 to #3 this year, but they’re still holding strong. These colorful chocolate gems remain a classic go-to, whether it’s the traditional milk chocolate, peanut, or one of the many flavor varieties. You can never go wrong finding a fun-sized packet of M&M's in your trick-or-treat stash!
Ranking change this year: Down from #2
#2 Best. Snickers
Snickers climbed up a notch, securing the #2 spot this year. With its perfect blend of nougat, caramel, peanuts, and chocolate, it’s no surprise this candy bar continues to win over candy lovers. A fun-sized Snickers bar is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, delivering that sweet and salty crunch that makes it a Halloween must-have.
Ranking change this year: Up from #3
#1 Best. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
Unshakeable at the top, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups remain the reigning champion of Halloween candy. There’s just something magical about that rich, creamy peanut butter enveloped in smooth milk chocolate.
Year after year, they dominate the rankings, earning love from kids, adults, and everyone in between. It doesn’t matter if you’re getting the classic full-sized cups, miniatures, or the festive pumpkin-shaped ones; Reese’s consistently delivers that perfect balance of salty and sweet in every bite.
The magic of Reese’s goes beyond just taste—it’s also about nostalgia and the joy of trading candy with friends. Remember those childhood candy swaps? Reese's was always the golden ticket, the piece you’d hoard or bargain for. It’s the candy that, when found in your Halloween haul, instantly feels like a victory.
Whether you're team Mini, stand by the classic Full size, or go all out with King size – it's all about that Reese's love.
With their continued popularity, it’s clear: Reese’s isn’t just candy; it's a Halloween legend. Here's to the undisputed king of candies holding onto its crown for yet another year!
Concluding the Worst Halloween Candy Rankings
And there you have it—the updated candy rollercoaster for 2024! From nostalgic throwbacks to modern favorites, every candy in the trick-or-treat bag has its own story to tell. Love them or hate them, it's the variety that makes Halloween such a sweet celebration. Here's to another year of candy-filled fun! Stay spooky, stay sweet, and happy Halloween 2024!
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For more info or press inquiries contact Ben at: ben@candystore.com
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