The Ultimate Ranking of the Best Candy in the World (2025)

In a world filled with sweet temptations, finding the absolute best candy can feel like searching for treasure. Whether you're a chocolate enthusiast, a sour candy fanatic, or someone with a penchant for chewy gummies, this comprehensive ranking of the world's best candies will satisfy your curiosity and perhaps your sweet tooth too. Based on consumer polls, sales data, and expert opinions from 2025, we've compiled the definitive list of the most beloved candies across the globe.

Top 10 Best Candies in the World

1. Twix

Taking the crown as the world's best candy according to a massive consumer poll with over 61,000 voters, Twix has earned its place at the top. This perfect blend of crunchy cookie, smooth caramel, and milk chocolate creates a multidimensional taste experience that candy lovers can't resist. The unique combination of textures and the option to choose between left and right Twix adds to its appeal, making it the reigning champion of candies worldwide.

2. Sour Patch Kids

Coming in at a close second, Sour Patch Kids continue to dominate the non-chocolate candy category. Their irresistible "sour then sweet" flavor profile keeps candy enthusiasts coming back for more. With a variety of fruity flavors and that signature sour coating, these chewy treats have maintained their popularity across generations and show no signs of losing their appeal in 2025.

3. Kit Kat

The iconic "Have a break, have a Kit Kat" candy secures the third spot on our list. With its perfect layers of crispy wafer and smooth milk chocolate, Kit Kat delivers a satisfying snap with every bite. The brand's constant innovation with seasonal and international flavors (especially in Japan) keeps consumers excited about this classic treat. Kit Kat remains one of the most recognized and beloved candy brands globally.

4. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

The unbeatable combination of chocolate and peanut butter earns Reese's Peanut Butter Cups the fourth position. This American classic has won hearts worldwide with its rich, creamy peanut butter center encased in milk chocolate. The distinctive ridged edges and iconic orange packaging make it instantly recognizable, while its perfect sweet-and-salty balance keeps consumers coming back for more.

5. Snickers

"You're not you when you're hungry," and apparently, millions agree that Snickers is the solution. This powerhouse of a candy bar combines nougat, caramel, peanuts, and chocolate to create a satisfying and energy-boosting treat. As one of the bestselling candy bars globally with annual sales exceeding $380 million, Snickers has secured its place among the candy elite.

6. M&M's

These colorful button-shaped chocolates with the motto "melts in your mouth, not in your hand" have been a favorite since 1941. Available in various flavors including the classic milk chocolate, peanut, and newer variations like caramel and pretzel, M&M's versatility and recognizable characters have made them a staple in the candy world.

7. Haribo Gummy Bears

The original gummy candy continues to be a worldwide favorite. Haribo's perfect chewy texture and fruit flavors have set the standard for gummy candies everywhere. Their classic bears come in various fruity flavors and have inspired countless imitations, yet the original remains unmatched in quality and taste.

8. Ferrero Rocher

For a more luxurious candy experience, Ferrero Rocher takes the eighth spot. These hazelnut-chocolate treats wrapped in gold foil offer a premium confectionery experience. With layers of wafer, chocolate, and a whole hazelnut center, they represent the more sophisticated side of the candy spectrum.

9. Starburst

These chewy, fruit-flavored candies continue to be favorites for their bold flavors and juicy taste. The original cherry, strawberry, orange, and lemon pack offers a burst of fruity goodness that has kept candy lovers coming back for decades. Their individually wrapped format makes them perfect for sharing or savoring one at a time.

10. Jolly Rancher

Rounding out our top ten are these hard candies known for their long-lasting, intensely fruity flavors. From green apple to watermelon, Jolly Ranchers deliver a powerful punch of flavor that has earned them a loyal following. In 2025, the brand's expansion into freeze-dried versions has brought new texture innovations to these classic treats.

Trending Candy Innovations of 2025

The candy world is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging each year. In 2025, several key innovations are reshaping the confectionery landscape:

Freeze-Dried Revolution

The freeze-dried candy trend has exploded, with brands like Hershey's launching Jolly Rancher Freeze Dried varieties. This technique creates a light, crunchy texture while intensifying flavors, delivering a new sensory experience that's become a social media sensation.

Global Flavor Fusion

Swedish candy, particularly super sour varieties, has taken TikTok by storm in 2025. Companies like BonBon and Sockerbit have seen orders skyrocket as consumers seek international candy experiences, from Swedish sour skulls to Dubai's chocolate pistachio creations.

Functional Candy

Health-conscious consumers are driving demand for better-for-you options. Brands like YumEarth, SmartSweets, and Unreal Candy offer treats with reduced sugar, organic ingredients, and plant-based formulations. Some innovative products even include added benefits like vitamins, collagen, or probiotics.

Interactive and Experiential

Candy is becoming more than just a treat—it's an experience. Products like chamoy pickle kits, build-your-own candy assortments, and flavor-changing gums provide interactive elements that appeal to younger consumers looking for shareable moments beyond simple consumption.

Chocolate Bar Showdown

When it comes to chocolate bars specifically, the competition is fierce. Here's how the top contenders stack up:

1. Twix: The combination of cookie, caramel, and chocolate creates an unbeatable texture and flavor profile.

2. Kit Kat: The perfect snap of wafer layers covered in milk chocolate delivers satisfaction in every bite.

3. Snickers: The classic combination of nougat, caramel, peanuts, and chocolate continues to dominate.

4. Reese's Cups: While technically not a bar, these peanut butter and chocolate cups are essential in any chocolate ranking.

5. Toblerone: The distinctive triangular pieces filled with honey and almond nougat offer a unique chocolate experience.

Candy by Category

Best Sour Candies

1. Sour Patch Kids

2. Warheads

3. Toxic Waste

4. Sour Skittles

5. Sour Punch Straws

Best Gummy Candies

1. Haribo Gummy Bears

2. Trolli Sour Brite Crawlers

3. Albanese Gummi Bears

4. Swedish Fish

5. Black Forest Gummy Bears

Best Hard Candies

1. Jolly Ranchers

2. Werther's Original

3. Life Savers

4. Dum Dums

5. Brach's Star Brites

Global Candy Favorites

Candy preferences vary significantly around the world, with each region having its own distinctive favorites:

Japan: Kit Kat reigns supreme here, with hundreds of unique flavors like matcha, sakura, and wasabi that aren't available elsewhere.

UK: Cadbury Dairy Milk dominates the British market, with its distinctive creamy milk chocolate recipe.

Mexico: Dulces de tamarindo (tamarind candies) like Pulparindo offer a sweet, sour, and spicy combination unique to Mexican candy culture.

Sweden: Salt licorice and sour skull candies have developed a global following thanks to social media exposure.

Switzerland: Home to some of the world's finest chocolate brands like Lindt, Toblerone, and Nestlé.

The Science Behind Our Candy Cravings

Our love for candy isn't just about taste—it's science. Sugar triggers the release of dopamine, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter in our brains. Different candy textures also play a role in our preferences:

• Crispy candies like Kit Kat activate our auditory senses with their satisfying crunch

• Chewy candies like Starburst provide longer-lasting flavor and oral stimulation

• Creamy chocolates melt at body temperature, creating a smooth mouthfeel

Combined with nostalgic associations from childhood, these sensory experiences explain why certain candies maintain their popularity for generations.

Conclusion

While candy preferences are ultimately subjective, this 2025 ranking provides a comprehensive look at the most beloved sweets worldwide. From classic chocolate bars to innovative new treats, the candy industry continues to evolve while honoring traditional favorites. Whether you're team Twix or firmly in the Sour Patch Kids camp, there's no denying the enduring appeal of these sweet treats.

What's your favorite candy? Does it align with our global ranking, or do you think another deserving contender should have made the list? The beauty of candy is that there's something for everyone's taste buds—so feel free to disagree with our list and champion your personal favorite!

This ranking is based on consumer polls, sales data, and confectionery industry reports from 2025. Rankings may vary based on regional preferences and individual taste.