Indiana’s Candy Scene Is Seriously Underrated (And Delicious)
Sure, Indiana is famous for basketball and cornfields, but did you know we’re also home to some of the best candy in the country? Across small towns and big cities, Hoosier candy makers are crafting world-class sweets, from iconic gummy bears to hand-dipped chocolates.
So what are the best candy brands from Indiana? Here’s our official ranking of the state’s most mouthwatering, locally made treats.
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1. Albanese Candy — Merrillville, Indiana
There’s no debate on this one. Albanese Candy Factory is the GOAT of Indiana sweets. Their World’s Best Gummi Bears® are exactly that, the world’s best. Soft, flavorful, and stamped with that signature “A” on the tummy, they’ve set the global standard for gummy candy.
But Albanese isn’t just gummies. Their chocolate-covered nuts, sour candies, and seasonal treats are top-tier too. And if you want the full story behind this iconic Indiana brand, check out our deep dive on the Albanese Candy Factory. You’ll learn how this Merrillville company grew from a local favorite into a global candy powerhouse.
What to Try:
12 Flavor Gummi Bears®
Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels
Sour Gummi Worms
2. Schimpff’s Confectionery — Jeffersonville, Indiana
Step into candy history at Schimpff’s Confectionery, where they’ve been hand-making candy since 1891. Located in downtown Jeffersonville at 347 Spring Street, this old-school candy shop still makes its famous Red Hots and Modjeskas by hand. You can even catch a free candy-making demonstration!
What to Try:
Cinnamon Red Hots
Modjeskas (caramel-wrapped marshmallows)
Handmade Candy Canes (holiday favorite)
3. Good’s Candy Shop — Pendleton, Indiana
A Central Indiana favorite, Good’s Candy Shop is beloved for its rich chocolates and homemade fudge. Their Anderson location at 1423 West 53rd Street also serves up seasonal favorites like caramel apples and hand-packed ice cream.
What to Try:
Chocolate Turtles
Sea Salt Caramel Fudge
Hand-Dipped Chocolates
4. Tell City Pretzels (Sweet & Salty Collabs) — Tell City, Indiana
Technically a pretzel company, but they’ve teamed up with local candy makers to create sweet-and-salty magic. Their chocolate-covered pretzel rods and caramel drizzle snacks are the perfect salty-sweet combo. Find out more about their products and history at Tell City Pretzel.
What to Try:
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
Caramel Drizzle Pretzels
Peppermint Bark (seasonal)
5. Donaldson’s Finer Chocolates — Lebanon, Indiana
Quietly making some of Indiana’s best small-batch chocolates, Donaldson’s Finer Chocolates has been a family tradition for over 50 years. They’re known for their simple recipes, rich fillings, and perfect execution. Visit their store at 600 S. State Road 39 in Lebanon.
What to Try:
Raspberry Creams
Chocolate-Covered Cherries
Pecan Clusters
Donaldson's Finer Chocolates | Peter's Chocolate
Quick Q&A: Indiana’s Candy Kings
What’s the most famous candy brand from Indiana?
Without a doubt, Albanese Candy. Their World’s Best Gummi Bears® are sold nationwide (and around the world).
Where can I visit a candy factory in Indiana?
Stop by the Albanese Factory Store in Merrillville or Schimpff’s Confectionery in Jeffersonville for a peek behind the scenes.
Hoosier Candy is the Real Deal
Indiana’s candy makers prove that you don’t have to be a big city to make big-time sweets. From classic confections to innovative gummies, these Hoosier brands are crafting joy one bite at a time.
Did we miss your favorite local candy shop? Drop us a note and let’s keep shining a light on Indiana’s sweetest hidden gems.
