Did You Know Chicago Was Once the Candy Capital of America?
- 123gochicago
- Dec 10, 2025
- 3 min read
Chicago is known for its towering architecture, bold flavors, and rich cultural history — but did you know it was once America’s candy capital? From iconic childhood treats to massive confectionery empires, Chicago’s candy-making legacy is one of the city’s most delicious stories.
A City Built on Sugar & Innovation
By the early 20th century, Chicago’s booming railroads and central location made it the perfect place for manufacturing. Raw ingredients — sugar, cocoa, nuts, fruits — arrived quickly and cheaply, and candy makers took full advantage.
Factories popped up across the city, and soon Chicago became the largest candy-producing city in the world, earning the nickname “Candy Capital of America.”
Famous Chicago Candies You Probably Know
1. Cracker Jack
Arguably Chicago’s most iconic sweet-and-salty treat, Cracker Jack was created in 1893 by Frederick and Louis Rueckheim. It debuted at the World’s Columbian Exposition, and its blend of caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts quickly became a national sensation — especially once the “toy surprise” was added.
2. Tootsie Rolls
One of America’s most enduring treats, Tootsie Rolls were produced in Chicago for decades. At one point, more than 60 million Tootsie Rolls were made every single day at the South Side plant.
3. Wrigley Gum
Before Wrigley was a household name in baseball, it was a candy empire.William Wrigley Jr. started the company in 1891, eventually creating classics like Juicy Fruit, Spearmint, and Doublemint.Chicago’s famous Wrigley Building even served as the company headquarters.
4. Brach’s
Founded in 1904, Brach’s Candy Company grew to become the largest candy maker in the world.Walking into their factory was like stepping into Willy Wonka: the smell of caramel, chocolate, and peppermint filled the surrounding blocks.
5. Ferrara Candy Company
Ferrara started in Chicago’s Little Italy and created beloved candies like Lemonheads, Red Hots, Atomic Fireballs, and Now and Laters.Today, the company remains one of the largest confectionery producers in the U.S.
Why Chicago Became the Candy Capital
Several factors helped Chicago rise to sugary dominance:
Railroad crossroads allowed inexpensive shipping.
Cold winters kept chocolate from melting during production.
Abundant labor supported massive factories.
World’s fairs and exhibitions held in Chicago introduced local candy makers to the world.
Entrepreneurship—immigrant families built companies from scratch that grew into national brands.
At its peak, Chicago produced one-third of all the candy in the United States.
Chicago Candy You Can Still Try Today
Even though some factories have closed or moved, you can still enjoy pieces of Chicago’s candy history:
Garrett Mix (CaramelCrisp + CheeseCorn) continues Cracker Jack’s tradition of caramel popcorn.
Ferrara Pan Factory Store in Forest Park.
Margie’s Candies, a Chicago classic since 1921.
Fannie May, founded in Chicago in 1920, still makes creamy chocolates and the famous Pixies.
Walking into these shops feels like stepping back into the golden age of Chicago candy.
A Sweet Story Still Being Written
Chicago’s candy-making roots remain a proud part of the city’s identity.Whether you grew up cracking open a box of Cracker Jack at Wrigley Field or unwrapping a Tootsie Roll on Halloween, chances are your favorite childhood treat has a Chicago connection.
Today, smaller artisan shops and chocolatiers are continuing the tradition — proving that in Chicago, the love of candy never fades.
Discover More Hidden Gems
For more hidden gems check out my book Chicago Beyond the Bean, available now. It’s filled with stories that take you beyond the typical tourist spots to explore the city’s most fascinating corners.
Comments