We’re setting out on a flavorful exploration of classic Mexican candy favorites. These cherished treats hold a special place in the Mexican community, serving not only as delectable sweets but as a celebration of culture and nostalgia. Take a moment to indulge in these flavors that have delighted generations, and partake in the cultural legacy that these sweet treasures represent.
Chamoy
Did you know Chamoy, the beloved Mexican favorite, originates from China? Chamoy began as a salty, dried apricot snack known as “see mui,” and when introduced to Mexico, the common pronunciation of the word became “chamoy.” Over the years, chamoy has transformed into a condiment made from dried chilies, lime juice, and fruits like apricot, plum, and mango. It can be drizzled over fresh fruit, such as mango or pineapple, giving it a zesty kick. It is also commonly used as a dipping sauce for snacks like chips and is a popular ingredient in Chamoyada, a sweet and spicy type of shaved ice.
Pulparindo
Pulparindo is a type of tamarind-based candy from the brand de la Rosa that originates from Mexico. It usually comes in the form of a bar and is made from the pulp of tamarind, a pod-like fruit known for its tangy and sour flavor. Tamarind is a popular ingredient in many Mexican candies, known for giving treats their zesty taste. Pulparindo is also made with sugar, and chili powder, giving it a unique combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.
Mazapán
Mazapán de la Rosa candy is a popular type of marzipan candy that originated in Mexico in 1942. It is known for its distinctive round shape and is wrapped in colorful, crinkly paper with the signature red rose printed on the front. Mazapán de la Rosa is made primarily from ground peanuts and sugar, giving it a crumbly texture and a sweet, nutty flavor. This particular type of candy is a variation of traditional marzipan, which is traditionally made using almonds instead of peanuts. Mazapán de la Rosa is a cultural icon in Mexican confectionery, enjoyed for its unique taste and nostalgic appeal.
Cajeta
Similar to dulce de leche, cajeta is a Mexican caramel made from sweetened caramelized goat milk. This specialty hails from the city of Celaya in Guanajuato, Mexico. In Celaya, and eventually, across Mexico, a blend of half goat’s milk and half cow’s milk earned the name “cajeta.” In other regions, this milk candy is recognized as “leche quemada” or “dulce de leche.” Cajeta can be savored on its own as a delectable sweet, used as a sumptuous spread or filling for breads and pastries like churros, or drizzled as an indulgent topping for ice cream.
Paleta Payaso
This whimsical Mexican lollipop, shaped like a clown face, combines a marshmallow base, a chocolate coating, and gummy candies. During the 1970s, the team at Ricolino, the company that makes these lollipops, set out to revolutionize the way people enjoyed treats. After experimenting with various confections and presentations, they embarked on a unique idea: coating cornflakes with chocolate! However, after more trials, they opted to substitute the cornflakes with marshmallows. These were then enveloped in chocolate and adorned with gummies, resulting in the iconic clown face design that defines the Paleta Payaso from Ricolinos.
Duvalín
Duvalín is another candy that comes from the brand Ricolino and is among the most traditional sweets of this brand. This treat comes in a small box with 2-4 flavors, which are usually a combination of vanilla, strawberry, chocolate, hazelnut, or caramel. The cream frostings are moderately sweet and are eaten with a tiny plastic spoon that comes inside the packaging. Evoking a sense of sweet nostalgia, Duvalín has become a beloved treat for both young and old, making it a timeless classic in Mexican confectionery culture.
Vero Mango
Vero Mango chili lollipops, crafted by Mexican candy manufacturer Dulces Vero, are sweet mango-flavored lollipops complemented by a spicy chili coating. As you savor this lollipop, the flavor experience unfolds in stages. Initially, both the candy head and the stick deliver a satisfying kick of spice, ensuring a tantalizing start. The treat reveals its sweet, mango essence that offers a sweet oasis amid the heat. Vero Mango is a candy that caters perfectly to the taste buds of chili-loving sweet tooths.
