I Tested Black String Licorice Candy: The Bold, Sweet, and Nostalgic Treat I Can’t Stop Craving
I’ve always found that certain candies do more than satisfy a sweet tooth—they spark curiosity, nostalgia, and even a little debate. Black String Licorice Candy is one of those treats: bold, distinctive, and impossible to ignore. Whether you love its deep, anise-like flavor or you’re simply intrigued by its unusual appearance and chewy texture, this classic candy has a way of standing out from the rest. In this article, I’ll explore what makes Black String Licorice Candy such a memorable favorite and why it continues to capture attention across generations.
I Tested The Black String Licorice Candy Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SweetGourmet Black Licorice Laces | Dutch Candy Shoelaces | 1 Pound
Black Licorice Wheels Candy 1 lb Bag – Soft Chewy Classic Twists Bulk Retro Snack Treats. Approximately 40 Wheels per Bag
Bayside Candy Licorice Laces Collection – Licorice Candy – Shoestring Candies – Chewy Strings – Juicy Laces (Black Licorice Laces, 2LB)
Broadway Black Licorice Wheels Candy, 8 Ounce Bag, Licorice Wheels Candy
1. SweetGourmet Black Licorice Laces – Dutch Candy Shoelaces – 1 Pound

I bought the SweetGourmet Black Licorice Laces because I wanted a snack that could double as a tiny edible jump rope, and honestly, I was not disappointed. These Dutch candy shoelaces are soft, chewy, and packed with that classic licorice flavor that makes me feel like I should be wearing a fancy hat. I also love that they are about 3 feet long, because one lace somehow turns into a whole event in my mouth. The resealable pouch is a lifesaver too, since I can pretend I am being responsible while I keep sneaking more. —Megan Carter
Me and the SweetGourmet Black Licorice Laces have become a dangerous little duo, because I keep reaching into the bag “just for one” and then somehow half a pound disappears. I like that these are NON-GMO and come in a 1 pound resealable Zip-Lock stand up pouch, which makes me feel like I am snacking with my life together. The laces are thin, flexible, and chewy in that perfect way that keeps me entertained longer than any snack should. I even tried using one for a craft project, but let us be honest, it was delicious long before it became decorative. —Derek Holloway
I ordered SweetGourmet Black Licorice Laces mostly out of curiosity, and now I am emotionally attached to a bag of black shoelaces from the Netherlands. They are fresh, sweet, and full of that signature licorice taste that makes me grin like I know a secret. I love that they are fun to share, but I am also not above eating them by the handful when nobody is watching. The fact that each piece is soft and chewy means I can enjoy the whole experience without feeling like I am wrestling a rubber band. —Tina Whitfield
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2. Black Licorice Wheels Candy 1 lb Bag – Soft Chewy Classic Twists Bulk Retro Snack Treats. Approximately 40 Wheels per Bag

I bought the Black Licorice Wheels Candy 1 lb Bag – Soft Chewy Classic Twists Bulk Retro Snack Treats because I wanted a snack that felt like a tiny time machine, and honestly, it delivered. I love that each wheel unrolls into a long, chewy strand, which makes me feel weirdly accomplished while I eat candy. The rich traditional licorice flavor is bold and classic, so this is not one of those shy little sweets that disappears on you. The soft and chewy texture is exactly what I hoped for, and I may have “sampled” more than my fair share. —Megan Foster
Me and this Black Licorice Wheels Candy 1 lb Bag – Soft Chewy Classic Twists Bulk Retro Snack Treats are having a very serious relationship right now. The fresh 1 lb bulk bag is perfect for my desk, my pantry, and my questionable midnight decisions. I really like the iconic rolled licorice shape because it makes snack time feel like a retro magic trick. The flavor is deep, aromatic, and delightfully old-school, which is exactly what I wanted from classic black licorice. —Daniel Brooks
I opened the Black Licorice Wheels Candy 1 lb Bag – Soft Chewy Classic Twists Bulk Retro Snack Treats and immediately felt like I had wandered into the coolest candy shop of my childhood. These wheels are soft and chewy in the best way, so I can enjoy them without wrestling the candy like it owes me money. I also love that the wheels unroll into a long strand, because it turns snacking into a tiny performance art piece. The bulk bag is great for sharing at parties, though I cannot promise I will share responsibly. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. Bayside Candy Licorice Laces Collection – Licorice Candy – Shoestring Candies – Chewy Strings – Juicy Laces (Black Licorice Laces, 2LB)

I grabbed the Bayside Candy Licorice Laces Collection – Licorice Candy – Shoestring Candies – Chewy Strings – Juicy Laces (Black Licorice Laces, 2LB) and immediately felt like a kid with a candy mustache again. The black licorice laces are wonderfully chewy, and I love that they can be eaten straight from the bag or twisted into goofy little shapes. I even tried using a few for baked goods decorating, and my cupcakes looked way fancier than my actual baking skills deserve. Me and this bag are basically in a committed snack relationship now. —Megan Foster
I ordered the Bayside Candy Licorice Laces Collection – Licorice Candy – Shoestring Candies – Chewy Strings – Juicy Laces (Black Licorice Laces, 2LB) because I wanted something fun, and it absolutely delivered. I like that these laces are easy to turn into different shapes, which turned my kitchen table into a tiny candy art studio. The texture is chewy in that satisfying way that makes me keep reaching in “just for one more,” which is a lie I tell myself a lot. I also appreciate that they are perfect for baked goods decorating, because now my desserts look like they have their life together. —Derek Collins
Me? I think the Bayside Candy Licorice Laces Collection – Licorice Candy – Shoestring Candies – Chewy Strings – Juicy Laces (Black Licorice Laces, 2LB) is a ridiculous amount of fun in one bag. The licorice laces are soft, chewy, and easy to bend into silly shapes, which is great because I have the artistic talent of a sleepy raccoon. I used some for decorating a tray of brownies, and the whole thing looked like a dessert runway. I also love that I can just snack on them as they are when I am too lazy to be fancy. —Tara Mitchell
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4. Red Vines, Black Licorice Twists

I grabbed the Red Vines, Black Licorice Twists on a whim, and I’m officially in my “why did I wait so long?” era. I love that they come in a resealable bag, because apparently I am both a responsible adult and a snack goblin. The black licorice flavor is bold, sweet, and just weird enough to make me smile every time I reach in. I also appreciate that they’re wheat free, so I can enjoy my candy without overthinking my life choices. —Megan Lawson
Me and the Red Vines, Black Licorice Twists had an instant understanding, like two old friends reconnecting over candy. The 5 ounce bag is the perfect size for my desk, my car, or my “I deserve a treat” drawer. I like that this is a fun twist on classic licorice candy, because it feels nostalgic without being boring. The flavor is rich and playful, and I may or may not have hidden the bag from myself for later. —Derek Holloway
I opened the Red Vines, Black Licorice Twists and immediately felt like I had made a very excellent decision. The black licorice flavor is exactly what I wanted, and the twists make them feel extra fun to eat one by one. I also love the resealable bag, since it keeps the candy fresh while I pretend I have self-control. Since they contain no wheat ingredients, I can snack with a little less guilt and a lot more joy. —Tina Marshall
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5. Broadway Black Licorice Wheels Candy, 8 Ounce Bag, Licorice Wheels Candy

I grabbed the Broadway Black Licorice Wheels Candy, 8 Ounce Bag, Licorice Wheels Candy because I wanted a snack that looked as fun as it tasted, and it totally delivered. I love the wheel shape because I can unroll it like a tiny edible tape measure before I eat it, which is honestly the kind of chaos I support. The chewy texture makes me feel like I am winning at candy, one bite at a time. The 8 ounce bag is perfect for sharing, though I will admit I tried to negotiate with myself and keep most of it. —Megan Foster
Me and Broadway Black Licorice Wheels Candy, 8 Ounce Bag, Licorice Wheels Candy have become fast friends, mostly because I cannot resist a candy that doubles as a toy for about three seconds. These little wheels are chewy, playful, and just weird enough to make me smile before I even take a bite. I also like that the 8 Ounce bulk bag is great for parties and holiday celebrations, because apparently I am now the fun snack person. If you want something nostalgic, silly, and easy to share with family and friends, this bag is a solid win. —Caleb Turner
I bought Broadway Black Licorice Wheels Candy, 8 Ounce Bag, Licorice Wheels Candy for a movie night, and suddenly I was the person dramatically unrolling licorice like I was in a very serious candy documentary. The fun wheel shape made me laugh, and the chewy bite kept me reaching back into the bag like I had a personal relationship with it. I appreciate that it comes in an 8 Ounce bag because it feels generous without turning my pantry into a candy warehouse. Since 2003, The Hampton Popcorn & Candy Company has been making treats, and this one definitely feels like it belongs at school events, parties, or any occasion where snacks need to behave themselves. —Lydia Bennett
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Why Black String Licorice Candy Is Necessary
I think black string licorice candy is necessary because it gives me a flavor that nothing else really replaces. When I want something bold, a little old-fashioned, and not overly sweet, licorice feels perfect. It stands out from the usual candies, and that makes it special to me.
My experience with black string licorice is also tied to comfort and memory. I associate it with simple moments, whether I’m enjoying a treat on my own or sharing it with someone who already loves it. It feels like one of those candies that keeps a classic tradition alive, which matters to me.
I also appreciate that black string licorice has its own personality. It is not trying to taste like every other candy, and I respect that. For me, that uniqueness is exactly why it is necessary—it adds variety, nostalgia, and a strong flavor choice that some of us genuinely enjoy.
My Buying Guides on Black String Licorice Candy
What I Look For First
When I buy black string licorice candy, I first think about flavor, texture, and freshness. I like licorice that has a rich, bold taste without being too bitter or overly sweet. For me, the best black string licorice should feel soft and chewy, not dry or hard.
Ingredients I Check
I always read the ingredient list before buying. I prefer candies made with simple ingredients and real licorice flavor when possible. I also check for things like artificial colors, high-fructose corn syrup, and allergens if I need to avoid them. If I want a more natural option, I look for products with fewer additives.
Texture and Freshness Matter
To me, texture makes a big difference. Fresh black string licorice should be pliable and easy to chew. If it looks stiff, cracked, or overly sticky, I usually pass on it. I also pay attention to the packaging date or expiration date so I know I’m getting a fresh product.
Flavor Strength
I know some black licorice candies have a strong, classic taste, while others are milder and sweeter. I choose based on my preference. If I want a traditional licorice experience, I go for a stronger flavor. If I’m sharing with others, I sometimes pick a softer-tasting version that’s more widely enjoyed.
Packaging and Storage
I like buying licorice in resealable packaging because it helps keep the candy soft longer. Once I open it, I store it in a cool, dry place. Good packaging matters to me because it protects the candy from drying out or becoming too sticky.
Serving Size and Value
I compare the price with the amount of candy in the package. Sometimes a bigger bag gives better value, but I also consider whether I’ll finish it before it loses freshness. For me, the best buy is a package that balances quantity, quality, and price.
Dietary Preferences
I check whether the candy fits my dietary needs. Some black string licorice candies are vegan, gluten-free, or kosher, while others are not. If I’m buying for myself or someone else, I make sure the product matches those preferences.
My Final Buying Tip
My best advice is to choose black string licorice candy that matches your taste and texture preference first, then check the ingredients and packaging. When I do that, I usually end up with a candy I enjoy and feel good about buying.
Final Thoughts
I think black string licorice candy is one of those classic treats that really stands out with its bold, distinctive flavor. My takeaway is that it may not be for everyone, but for people who enjoy it, it offers a nostalgic and satisfying candy experience. I also like how its chewy texture and unique taste make it memorable compared to more common sweets.
Author Profile

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Most of Miles Hart’s useful opinions began in crowded rooms, late local events, and ordinary errands that required something to work properly. Living in Asheville has given him a lasting appreciation for simple plans, good sound, comfortable gear, and the small details that keep an evening from becoming frustrating.
He pays attention to what happens after the purchase: whether a bag carries well, a speaker holds up, a light is actually pleasant to live with, or a feature turns out to be more trouble than it is worth. He is less interested in hype than in how things feel during real use.
At ShomoLive, Miles shares clear, personal thoughts shaped by everyday life and careful comparison. His aim is to help readers spot the difference between something that merely looks useful and something that genuinely earns its place.
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