Candy corn

Candy corn is one of those iconic foods that represent fall, at least here in the US. Colorful and fun, it is also strangely compelling food. When there's a bowl of candy corn out, it's very difficult to resist taking a few pieces. Some people absolutely adore the slightly honey-vanilla flavor (in the good candy corns), while many other people just find it cloyingly sweet and unbearable. Either way, nearly everyone takes a piece when offered. And even if you can't stand the stuff gastronomically, it is fun to look at.

Apparently, candy corn has been around as a confection for over 100 years (originally created in the 1880's). A nifty little history of candy corn can be found on the National Confectioner's Association page dedicated to candy corn. I'll dig around a bit more and see whether I can find some photos of early candy corn production in action- it must have been quite a sight to see the three layers being individually poured by hand to create the finished candies!

On another note, we're thrilled to be included in a recent candy corn-themed treasury, curated by Analiese (a fantastic polymer clay artist- so it's doubly complimentary to have our work chosen!). I love how she's arranged her treasury to mimic the actual candy, and her selections are delectable. (Click for a closer view.)