The History of Jelly Beans
Yesterday was National Jelly Bean Day and to be honest I had no idea that was even a thing. My kids love jelly beans. I’ve had some here and there but I usually think of jelly beans being an Easter candy. You see bags and bag of them around Easter time and my mom usually buys a bag or two, fills a big jar with them and let’s the grandkids guess how many are in the jar. My kids love them and would eat them every day if I let them. Sugary and fun colored, jelly beans draw my kids in like bees to honey.
April 22nd is the official National Jelly Bean Day, one of those fun and unusual holidays that you don’t often think about. Jelly Beans have been around for a long time. In fact, I think they’re right up there with hard candies. The outside of the Jelly Bean is a thick candy shell and the inside is a softer, more chewy and sweet candy. My favorite flavor is orange and I could probably count on my hand how many times I’ve actually eaten one.
The History of Jelly Beans
Made in the late 1800’s, the jelly bean was first made by confectioner William Schrafft. Rumor has it, he sent them to soldiers fighting in the Civil War. It wasn’t until several years later in July, 1905 that the jelly bean was mentioned in the Chicago Daily News. The rest is history. During the early 1900’s, jelly beans were sold in bulk by the pound. Most jelly beans were mainly fruit flavored and made from sugar, pectin, tapioca and starch.
Jelly Belly Jelly Beans are probably the most well known jelly bean brand and are still sold in bulk today at many grocers and candy shops. If you cannot find jelly beans in bulk, you can still find them in the candy aisle usually near the hard candies. Jelly bean flavors have definitely evolved over the years. Today you can find flavor combinations such as popcorn, chocolate, coffee, apple and more!
Love jelly beans? There is more to them than just eating! I rounded up some fun experiments and recipes:
- Jelly Bean Color Experiment from Crafty Morning – How cool is this fun experiment!?
- Jelly Belly Jelly Bean Cupcakes from The First Year Blog – Jelly beans AND cupcakes combine? Yes, please!
Jelly Bean Popcorn from Two Sisters Crafting – Perfect for movie night or just a fun afternoon snack that kids can help make! - Jelly Bean Jewelry from Marla Meridith – Wearable and edible fun!
- Jelly Beans Busy Bag from Teach Me Mommy – Not just for eating, jelly beans are fun to sort by color and count!
- Jelly Bean Vodka from Savoring The Good – This is one I can totally get behind. What a great way to use up old jelly beans!
- Make Your Own Jelly Beans!
