The nostalgia of childhood treats can be overwhelming, with many of us reminiscing about the delicious candies that filled our lunchboxes and satisfied our sweet tooth. One such beloved treat is the Mary Jane peanut butter kiss, a classic candy that has been a staple in American confectionery for decades. But, as with many things, times change, and products come and go. This raises the question: do they still make Mary Jane peanut butter kisses? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Mary Jane candy, explore its rise to fame, and ultimately answer the question that has been on many minds.
Introduction to Mary Jane Candies
Mary Jane candies have a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The candy was first introduced in 1914 by the Charles N. Miller Company, which later became part of the NECCO (New England Confectionery Company) family. The original Mary Jane was a peanut butter and molasses flavored candy that quickly gained popularity due to its unique taste and chewy texture. Over the years, the recipe remained largely unchanged, with the addition of new flavors and limited-edition variations.
The Rise of Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses
The Mary Jane peanut butter kiss, in particular, became a fan favorite among candy enthusiasts. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet molasses, wrapped in a colorful wrapper, made it an instant hit. The candy’s popularity soared in the mid-20th century, with Mary Jane peanut butter kisses becoming a staple in many American households. They were often included in lunchboxes, used as rewards, or enjoyed as a sweet treat after dinner.
Impact of NECCO’s Bankruptcy
In 2018, NECCO, the manufacturer of Mary Jane candies, filed for bankruptcy and announced that it would be shutting down its operations. This news sent shockwaves through the candy community, with many fans of the Mary Jane peanut butter kiss worried that their beloved treat would be discontinued forever. However, in a surprising turn of events, the NECCO brand was acquired by the Spangler Candy Company, which also owns the Dum Dums and Candy Canes brands. This acquisition raised hopes that the Mary Jane peanut butter kiss would once again be available to fans.
The Current Status of Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses
So, do they still make Mary Jane peanut butter kisses? The answer is yes, but with some caveats. After the acquisition by Spangler Candy Company, the production of Mary Jane candies resumed, albeit with some changes to the recipe and manufacturing process. The new owners have made efforts to modernize the brand while maintaining the classic taste and quality that fans of the candy have come to expect.
Changes to the Recipe and Packaging
While the core ingredients of the Mary Jane peanut butter kiss remain the same, some changes have been made to the recipe and packaging. The candy now features a new and improved wrapper that is more environmentally friendly and visually appealing. Additionally, the recipe has been tweaked to include high-quality peanut butter and molasses, ensuring that the candy retains its distinctive flavor and texture.
Where to Find Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses
For those eager to get their hands on Mary Jane peanut butter kisses, there are several options available. The candy can be found in select retail stores, online marketplaces, and through the Spangler Candy Company website. Fans of the candy can also check with local candy stores or specialty food shops to see if they carry the Mary Jane peanut butter kiss.
Conclusion
The Mary Jane peanut butter kiss has come a long way since its introduction in 1914. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved retro candy, the treat has captured the hearts of many. While the bankruptcy of NECCO and subsequent changes to the recipe and manufacturing process may have caused concern among fans, the good news is that the Mary Jane peanut butter kiss is still available to enjoy. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the candy or just discovering it, the unique flavor and chewy texture of the Mary Jane peanut butter kiss are sure to delight. So, go ahead and indulge in this classic American treat, knowing that it’s still being made with love and care by the Spangler Candy Company.
In terms of availability, fans of the Mary Jane peanut butter kiss can expect to find the candy in a variety of formats, including:
- Single-serve packages
- Bulk boxes
- Specialty gift sets
As the candy industry continues to evolve, it’s comforting to know that some classics, like the Mary Jane peanut butter kiss, are still being made with the same love and care as they were decades ago. Whether you’re a fan of retro candies or just looking to try something new, the Mary Jane peanut butter kiss is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more.
What are Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses?
Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses are a classic American candy that consists of a peanut butter and molasses center covered in a sweet and chewy caramel coating. The candies are shaped like kisses or drops, hence the name, and are known for their distinctive flavor and texture. They have been a beloved treat for many generations, with a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The candies were originally manufactured by the Mary Jane company, which was founded in 1914 and was later acquired by other companies.
The Mary Jane company was known for its high-quality candies, and the Peanut Butter Kisses were one of its most popular products. The candies were made with a special recipe that included peanut butter, molasses, and other ingredients, which gave them a unique taste and texture. Over the years, the recipe and manufacturing process for Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses have changed, but the candies remain a favorite among many people. Despite changes in ownership and manufacturing, the candies are still widely available today, although some fans of the original recipe claim that the newer versions do not taste the same as the originals.
Are Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses still being made?
Yes, Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses are still being made today, although the company that originally manufactured them is no longer in business. The Mary Jane company was acquired by another company, which continued to produce the candies using the original recipe. However, over the years, the recipe and manufacturing process have undergone changes, which has affected the taste and quality of the candies. Some fans of the original recipe claim that the newer versions of the candies do not taste the same as the originals, while others prefer the updated version.
Despite the changes, Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses remain a popular treat, and they are widely available in stores and online. The candies are still made with peanut butter and molasses, and they have the same distinctive flavor and texture that made them a beloved treat for many generations. However, some fans of the original recipe may be disappointed to find that the newer versions do not taste the same as the originals. Nevertheless, the candies remain a classic American treat that is enjoyed by people of all ages, and they continue to be a staple in many candy stores and online retailers.
Who currently manufactures Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses?
The current manufacturer of Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses is the Spangler Candy Company, which is a leading manufacturer of candies in the United States. The Spangler Candy Company acquired the Mary Jane brand and recipe in 2001 and has been producing the candies ever since. The company uses a similar recipe to the original, but with some modifications to the ingredients and manufacturing process. The Spangler Candy Company is known for its high-quality candies, and it has maintained the traditional recipe and quality of Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses.
The Spangler Candy Company is committed to producing high-quality candies that meet the standards of the original Mary Jane recipe. The company uses traditional methods and ingredients to manufacture the candies, which include peanut butter, molasses, and other natural ingredients. The company also adheres to strict quality control measures to ensure that the candies meet the highest standards of taste, texture, and quality. As a result, Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses remain a popular treat among candy lovers, and they continue to be widely available in stores and online.
What changes have been made to the original recipe?
Over the years, the original recipe for Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses has undergone some changes, primarily due to changes in ownership and manufacturing. The original recipe used by the Mary Jane company included peanut butter, molasses, and other natural ingredients, which gave the candies their distinctive flavor and texture. However, the newer versions of the candies may contain some different ingredients, such as high-fructose corn syrup or other additives, which can affect the taste and quality of the candies.
Some fans of the original recipe claim that the newer versions of Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses do not taste the same as the originals, and that the changes to the recipe have affected the quality and flavor of the candies. However, the current manufacturer, the Spangler Candy Company, claims that it has maintained the traditional recipe and quality of the candies, while making some modifications to the ingredients and manufacturing process to meet modern standards and regulations. Despite the changes, Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses remain a beloved treat among many people, and they continue to be widely available in stores and online.
Where can I buy Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses?
Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses are widely available in stores and online, and they can be found in many retail outlets, including candy stores, grocery stores, and online retailers. The candies are distributed by the Spangler Candy Company, which has a wide network of retailers and distributors across the United States. Some popular places to buy Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses include Walmart, Target, and Amazon, as well as specialty candy stores and online retailers that specialize in nostalgic candies.
In addition to retail stores, Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses can also be purchased directly from the manufacturer, the Spangler Candy Company, through its website or customer service department. The company offers a variety of packaging options, including bulk packs and gift boxes, which are perfect for parties, special occasions, or as a gift for friends and family. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses or just discovering them, there are many ways to get your hands on these delicious and nostalgic candies.
Are Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses still popular today?
Yes, Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses are still a popular treat today, despite the changes to the recipe and manufacturing process over the years. The candies have a loyal following among fans of nostalgic candies, and they remain a beloved treat among many people who remember them from their childhood. The candies are also popular among younger generations, who are discovering them for the first time and enjoying their unique flavor and texture.
The popularity of Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses can be attributed to their distinctive flavor and texture, as well as their nostalgic appeal. Many people who grew up eating the candies have fond memories of them, and they continue to enjoy them as adults. The candies are also popular among fans of retro and vintage candies, who appreciate their traditional recipe and manufacturing process. As a result, Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses remain a staple in many candy stores and online retailers, and they continue to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Can I still find the original recipe Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses?
It is difficult to find the original recipe Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses, as the recipe and manufacturing process have undergone changes over the years. The original Mary Jane company is no longer in business, and the current manufacturer, the Spangler Candy Company, uses a modified version of the recipe. However, some specialty candy stores and online retailers may carry vintage or retro versions of the candies that are made with the original recipe.
For fans of the original recipe, there are some options available to find the traditional Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses. Some online retailers specialize in nostalgic candies and may carry vintage or retro versions of the candies. Additionally, some candy enthusiasts and collectors may have stashed away original recipe Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses, which they may be willing to sell or trade. However, these options may be limited, and the availability of the original recipe candies can vary. Nevertheless, for those who are willing to search, it is possible to find the traditional Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses that are made with the original recipe.