The confection known as Turkish Delight is considered to be the official predecessor of the jelly bean. Like its descendant, the ancient candy contained a firm outer shell and a soft chewy center. During the 17th century, French confectioners discovered a way to create hard sugar shells through panning.
Panning involves the rocking of almonds in a bowl filled with sugar and syrup. The nuts are continually rocked until the almonds are coated with a candy shell. The almond treats are called Jordan Almonds and their shell creation gave way to the jelly bean’s shiny coating.
Jelly beans were the first bulk candy to be sold in America. During the 1900’s the colorful candy became a popular staple of the penny candy section in many stores. It wasn’t until the 1930’s that jelly beans, thanks to their egg shape, became associated with Easter and the Easter Bunny.
There are two types of jelly beans: gourmet and traditional. Gourmet jelly beans tend to have flavor in the both the shell and filling, while traditional jelly beans have flavor in only the shell. Size and texture are other indicators of the type of bean you are consuming. Gourmet beans are smaller and softer than traditional jelly beans.
Find out more about jelly beans by visiting the National Confectioners Association and Eat, Drink and Really be Merry.
Mark your calendars! April 22nd is National Jelly Bean Day and July 30th is Jump for Jelly Beans Day!
