I Grew Up on Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, but These 7 Homemade Candies Are Better
Reese’s had a solid grip on my sweet tooth growing up, but things have changed. Once I started making my own homemade candies, the store-bought stuff just couldn’t keep up. It turns out, using real ingredients and skipping the weird waxy aftertaste goes a long way. These treats hit that nostalgic note without feeling like a sugar crash waiting to happen. Plus, they actually make people ask, “Where did you buy these?”
Twix Thumbprint Cookies

You get that hit of caramel without the sticky mess. The cookie stays soft enough to bite cleanly but holds its shape like it means it. A fun pick if you’re into desserts that double as homemade candies.
Get the Recipe: Twix Thumbprint Cookies
White Chocolate Candy

Smooth peppermint, not mouthwash-level mint, is the move here. It breaks up the usual chocolate-heavy spread. Perfect if you’re sneaking in one more tray of holiday treats without repeating yourself.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Candy
Crock Pot Candy

Toss in a few ingredients and walk away—this one knows how to handle itself. No stirring marathons or sugar thermometers. Ideal if you’re adding homemade candies to your lineup without turning your kitchen into a lab.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Candy
Homemade Gummies

No mystery flavors or gummy bricks here. You set the texture, the flavor, and how sweet you want them. Way more control than anything wrapped in plastic.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Gummies
Gumdrop Nougat Candy

Soft, chewy, and not a glue trap for your teeth. The gumdrops give it a pop of color and something fruity without going overboard. If you’re trying to sneak something fun onto the snack tray, this one works.
Get the Recipe: Gumdrop Nougat Candy
Chocolate Nonpareils Candy

Melt, dip, sprinkle, done. You don’t need molds, piping bags, or patience. Great for anyone who wants to pull off homemade candies without needing a backup plan.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Nonpareils Candy
Coconut Candy Bars

The texture’s on point—holds together but doesn’t crumble. Not overloaded with sugar either, so you can actually taste the coconut. A good pick when you want a chocolate-covered treat that’s not syrupy sweet.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Candy Bars
