There’s something magical about candy—it has the power to transport us back to childhood, to birthday parties, movie nights, and carefree afternoons spent at the corner store. The crinkle of a candy wrapper and the first bite of something sweet can unlock vivid memories of simpler times.
But while many classic confections remain on store shelves, others have sadly faded into the past, leaving only nostalgia in their wake. From chewy caramel bars to fizzy gum and chocolatey delights, some of the best-loved candies of the 1960s, 70s, 80s, and 90s are no longer around.
Whether they disappeared due to changing trends, corporate decisions, or shifts in ingredient preferences, these once-iconic treats hold a special place in our hearts. While we can’t bring them back, we can still celebrate the joy they brought us.
If you were lucky enough to try these sweet relics, consider this a tribute to the flavors of the past—because sometimes, the best things in life are the ones we can no longer have.
1. Marathon Bar
In 1973, chocolate lovers were introduced to the Marathon Bar, an impressive 8-inch-long caramel wonder. Its braided form was wrapped in a luscious milk chocolate coating.
The combination of chewy caramel and smooth chocolate was irresistible, turning it into a beloved treat almost instantly. Sadly, despite its popularity, the Marathon Bar was discontinued in 1981, leaving fans longing for its return.
Those who savored it remember its unique texture and satisfying length. Today, it remains a cherished memory for those fortunate enough to have enjoyed its sweet, chewy delight.
2. PB Max
Launched in 1989, PB Max was a dream come true for peanut butter enthusiasts. It featured a delectable layer of creamy peanut butter, paired with crunchy cookie pieces, and enveloped in a rich milk chocolate shell.
This candy bar quickly became a favorite for those seeking a peanutty crunch. Despite its success, PB Max was surprisingly discontinued in 1993, leaving fans puzzled and disappointed.
3. Nestle’s Triple Decker Chocolate Bar
Nestle’s Triple Decker Chocolate Bar was a true marvel in the world of chocolate confections. With three distinct layers, each offering a different chocolate experience, it was a treat that catered to diverse tastes.
The layers, carefully crafted, provided a rich and satisfying journey of flavors. Although the exact years of its production are less known, its discontinuation left a void for chocolate lovers.
4. GatorGum
In the late 1970s, Gatorade ventured into the candy world with GatorGum, a unique offering that promised a tangy flavor unlike any other. Marketed as a refreshing gum, it became popular quickly.
However, its journey was short-lived, as it was discontinued in the 1980s. It did make a brief comeback in the late 1990s, only to vanish again.
5. Life Savers Holes
Life Savers Holes, a delightful spin-off of the classic Life Savers, emerged in the 1990s as a bite-sized alternative. Designed to be a more convenient way to enjoy the iconic flavors, these tiny candies quickly found their place among candy lovers.
Despite their popularity, they too faced discontinuation, creating a sense of loss for fans. They remain a fond memory for those who appreciated their playful twist on a beloved classic.
6. Sandwich Bar
The Sandwich Bar was an intriguing combination of flavors, layered with nougat, caramel, and chocolate. Its creation offered a taste journey that was both satisfying and enjoyable. Although not as widely remembered as some of its counterparts, the Sandwich Bar had its own dedicated fan base.
7. Certs!
Certs! were more than just a breath mint; they were an icon of freshness and flavor. Known for their unique combination of a hard outer shell and a minty inner core, Certs! offered a refreshing burst with every bite.
The vibrant colors and variety of flavors attracted a broad audience, making them a staple in purses and pockets. Though they disappeared from shelves, the memory of their crisp, clean taste endures.
8. Butterfinger BB’s
Butterfinger BB’s, launched in the 1990s, offered a fun and bite-sized take on the classic Butterfinger bar. These round, crunchy peanut butter pieces, enveloped in chocolate, quickly became a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Their small size made them perfect for snacking on the go or sharing with friends. Sadly, they were discontinued in the early 2000s, leaving a gap in the hearts of candy lovers.
9. Seven Up Bar
The Seven Up Bar, a unique confectionery creation, featured seven distinct flavored fillings within a single chocolate bar. Each piece offered a surprise, from mint to cherry, capturing a variety of tastes.
Not to be confused with the soda, this candy bar was a journey of flavors for adventurous candy enthusiasts. Discontinued in the 1970s, its innovative concept is still remembered by those who experienced its diverse and delightful offerings.
10. Nestle’s Bonanza Bar
Nestle’s Bonanza Bar was a treasure trove of flavor, featuring a mix of vibrant candy bits embedded in a rich chocolate bar. The texture was a delightful contrast of smooth chocolate and crunchy inclusions.
Each bite was a burst of flavors that danced on the taste buds, leaving a lingering sweetness that begged for more. This candy bar was more than just a treat; it was a symbol of carefree days filled with laughter and fun.
11. Choco’Lite Bar
The Choco’Lite Bar, known for its airy, bubbly texture, offered a unique chocolate experience in the 1970s. With each bite, the lightness of the chocolate provided an almost melt-in-your-mouth sensation, setting it apart from denser chocolate bars. This appealing texture, combined with rich chocolate flavor, made it a beloved treat.
However, it was discontinued in the 1980s, much to the disappointment of its fans.
12. Beech-Nut Gum
Known for its long-lasting taste and variety of flavors, it was a favorite among gum enthusiasts. The colorful packaging and familiar logo made it easily recognizable.
Unfortunately, like many classic candies, it has been discontinued, leaving fans reminiscing about its refreshing taste.
13. Brach’s Assorted Chocolates
Each box contained a variety of chocolates, each with its own unique flavor and texture. From creamy caramels to nutty clusters, the assortment provided a delightful surprise in every bite.
Although they are no longer available, the memory of sharing a box of Brach’s Assorted Chocolates with loved ones remains a cherished part of many people’s holiday and everyday celebrations.
14. Cherry Hump
The Cherry Hump was a delightful candy that combined the rich taste of chocolate with a sweet cherry center. Its distinctive hump shape made it easily recognizable, and the combination of flavors was truly indulgent.
15. Chicken Dinner Candy Bar
Despite its unusual name, the Chicken Dinner Candy Bar was a popular treat in its time. It was not actually chicken-flavored but was named to evoke a sense of a hearty meal.
This candy bar combined peanuts, nougat, and chocolate, offering a rich and satisfying experience. It was a favorite during the Great Depression, providing an affordable luxury.
Though it has vanished from the market, the Chicken Dinner Candy Bar is fondly recalled for its quirky name and delightful taste.
16. Walnut Crush
Walnut Crush was a sophisticated confection that combined creamy walnut filling with a rich chocolate coating. Its luxurious taste and smooth texture made it a sought-after treat for candy aficionados.
Each bite offered a perfect balance of nutty and chocolatey flavors, making it a memorable indulgence.
17. Cristy Bar
The Cristy Bar was introduced by Concorde Confections in the late 1960s, marking the company’s first foray into the candy bar market. Initially advertised as the “Christy Bar” in 1969, the name was soon streamlined to “Cristy” by 1970.
This confection featured a nougat center enrobed in rich milk chocolate, appealing to those who favored classic candy bar flavors.
Despite its initial success, the Cristy Bar gradually faded from the market in the early 1970s. Today, it remains a nostalgic memory for those who enjoyed its simple yet satisfying taste during its brief presence on store shelves.
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