Back in Time Today
Easter used to be a wonderland of sweet surprises—candy eggs, pastel wrappers, and chocolate bunnies tucked into every basket. While some favorites like jelly beans and marshmallow Peeps have stood the test of time, many iconic Easter candies have quietly faded from shelves.
Whether due to corporate changes, shifting tastes, or changing production costs, these 10 Easter candies were once everywhere—but now live mostly in memory.
1. Necco Wafers Eggs
Even Necco Wafers embraced the Easter spirit with their pastel-colored Necco Wafers Eggs. Larger than the classic wafers, these eggs offered the same chalky, sweet crunch that Necco fans adored.
Their oversized form made them a unique addition to Easter celebrations, with each candy bringing a nostalgic flavor journey. Unfortunately, as Necco Wafers themselves faded from the market, so did these special Easter editions. Today, they live on only in the memories of those who cherished their distinctive taste during springtime festivities.
2. Brach’s Chicks & Rabbits
Brach’s Chicks & Rabbits were chewy, fruit-flavored candies shaped like little animals, making them a basket essential for Easter. Their soft texture and nostalgic flavors captured the essence of springtime joy. These delightful treats came in an array of vibrant colors, each promising a burst of fruity flavor with every bite.
Children delighted in biting off the heads of these sugary creatures, savoring the sweet taste that followed. Over time, however, these once-popular candies have become nearly impossible to find, leaving only fond memories for those lucky enough to have tasted them.
3. Nestlé Wonder Ball
Nestlé Wonder Ball captured the imagination of children everywhere, combining candy with surprise. These candy-coated chocolate eggs contained a toy inside, making them highly sought after during Easter. With their bright colors and hidden treasures, they were akin to a pre-Kinder Joy experience.
Safety regulations eventually led to their discontinuation, but those who experienced them still fondly recall the thrill of finding a toy amidst the chocolate. Wonder Eggs were more than just candy; they were an adventure wrapped in a sugary shell, now replaced by safer alternatives.
4. Russell Stover Jelly Bean Nougats
Russell Stover Jelly Bean Nougats were a unique Easter treat, combining soft, minty nougat with embedded jelly beans. This intriguing mix of flavors and textures made them both polarizing and memorable. The nougats were a seasonal delight, offering a refreshing mintiness juxtaposed with the chewy sweetness of jelly beans.
Despite their uniqueness, these candies have largely disappeared from mainstream markets, now found only in specialty shops. For those who loved the unusual combination, they remain a nostalgic reminder of Easters gone by, when experimentation was key to candy enjoyment.
5. Lifesavers Easter Storybook (Original Editions)
Lifesavers Easter Storybooks were a unique Easter tradition, offering not just candy but a story. These book-style boxes were filled with rolls of Lifesavers and featured charming Easter-themed tales. The original editions were especially cherished for their intricate designs and classic flavors.
Parents loved gifting these as they combined storytelling with sweet treats, making Easter baskets extra special. Sadly, while modern versions exist, the original charm and flavors have been lost to time, leaving a void for those who grew up anticipating the annual Easter Storybook surprise.
6. Hershey’s Candy-Coated Eggs
Hershey’s Candy-Coated Eggs were a springtime delight, resembling pastel M&M-style eggs but with a twist. Inside these crunchy exteriors lay classic Hershey’s milk chocolate, offering a delightful contrast of textures.
These candies were a staple in Easter baskets, cherished for their simple yet satisfying combination of crunch and creamy chocolate. As the years passed, however, these treats have become rarer, often replaced by other seasonal varieties. Their absence has left a sweet void for those who remember the unique joy of finding these candy-coated treasures each Easter.
7. SweeTarts Chicks, Ducks & Bunnies
SweeTarts Chicks, Ducks & Bunnies added a tangy twist to Easter baskets. These crunchy, sour-sweet candies came in fun, pastel shapes like chicks, ducks, and bunnies. Their vibrant colors and playful designs made them a favorite among children, who enjoyed the delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors.
Although these candies were once a staple, they have since become harder to find, making way for more modern designs. Yet, for those who remember, their unique taste and whimsical shapes remain a cherished Easter memory.
8. Easter-themed Ring Pops
Easter-themed Ring Pops were a holiday novelty, combining the beloved lollipop with festive flair. These pastel-colored treats came in bunny-shaped packaging, making them a fun accessory for kids to wear and enjoy. The innovative design turned candy into a playful experience, perfect for Easter celebrations.
Though popular for a time, these themed Ring Pops have vanished from most store shelves, leaving behind a legacy of sweet memories for those who indulged. Their playful nature and unique holiday connection remain fondly remembered by those who wore their candy with pride.
9. Chocolate-Filled Plastic Eggs
Chocolate-Filled Plastic Eggs were a delightful Easter surprise, offering more than meets the eye. These solid milk chocolate eggs were encased in brightly colored plastic shells, adding an element of excitement to Easter egg hunts.
Cracking open the plastic revealed the rich chocolate inside, a treat both visually and tastefully appealing. Over time, however, these eggs have become a rarity, often replaced by less interactive options. For those who remember the joy of discovering these chocolate treasures, they represent a cherished piece of Easter history, nostalgic and sweet.
10. Robin Hood Eggs
Robin Hood Eggs were a lesser-known but once-popular Easter candy, offering a delightful mix of malted milk chocolate and a crunchy candy shell. These seasonal treats were a favorite for their unique texture and flavor combination. The crunchy shell gave way to creamy chocolate, creating a satisfying experience with every bite.
Though they’ve faded from the market, they remain a nostalgic memory for those who enjoyed them during Easter celebrations. The Robin Hood Eggs, with their distinctive taste and historical packaging, continue to be fondly remembered by candy enthusiasts.