When you think of candy that starts with i, you probably imagine chocolate bars, gummies, or lollipops — but have you ever stopped to wonder which candies start with specific letters? Today, we dive deep into a particularly interesting niche: candy that starts with i with the letter I.
While it’s not the most common letter in the candy world, the treats that start with “I” are unique, diverse, and packed with flavor. From refreshing mints like Ice Breakers to exotic Japanese sweets like Ichigo Daifuku, and nostalgic American classics like Idaho Spud, these candies reflect a sweet blend of creativity and culture.
Whether you’re curating an alphabet candy list, preparing for trivia, or just expanding your confectionery knowledge, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about candy that starts with I.
1. Ice Breakers
Origin: United States
Candy Type: Mint and Gum
Let’s start with one of the most recognizable “I” candies — Ice Breakers. Launched by Nabisco in the 1990s and later acquired by The Hershey Company, Ice Breakers quickly became a favorite for those who love freshness with a hint of sweetness.
Their product range includes:
- Ice Breakers Mints – Available in flavors like Coolmint, Spearmint, and Cinnamon.
- Ice Breakers Duo – Combines fruity layers with refreshing mint.
- Ice Cubes Gum – Chewy gum with a frosty coating for long-lasting cool flavor.
Why It’s Popular:
Ice Breakers blend function and flavor — offering sugar-free freshness that doubles as a sweet treat.
2. Idaho SpudOrigin: United States
Candy Type: Chocolate Marshmallow Bar
The Idaho Spud Bar has been a beloved American candy since 1918, produced by the Idaho Candy Company. Despite its potato-inspired name, it contains no potatoes!
Instead, this candy bar features a light marshmallow center coated in dark chocolate and dusted with coconut flakes — all shaped like a mini potato.
Why It’s Popular:
The Idaho Spud’s nostalgic charm and creamy texture make it a standout in regional candy culture, especially across the northwestern U.S.
3. Icee Squeeze Candy
Origin: USA
Candy Type: Gel-Based Liquid Candy
Inspired by the frozen ICEE slush drink, this candy version comes in a fun, squeezable tube. Icee Squeeze Candy delivers tangy, fruity flavors that mimic the original drink — no freezer required!
Flavors include:
- Cherry
- Blue Raspberry
- Watermelon
Why It’s Popular:
Its nostalgic appeal and portable design make it a hit with kids and teens. It’s like taking a frozen treat on the go — without the mess!
4. Italian Torrone (Nougat Candy)
Origin: Italy
Candy Type: Nut and Honey Nougat
Italian Torrone is a traditional candy often enjoyed during the holidays. Made from whipped egg whites, honey, sugar, and toasted nuts, this chewy yet airy nougat is both elegant and satisfying.
Why It’s Popular:
This centuries-old Italian favorite is loved for its delicate balance of sweetness and crunch. You’ll often find it wrapped in paper-thin edible rice paper for a classic presentation.
5. Ibarra Chocolate
Origin: Mexico
Candy Type: Sweet Chocolate Disc
One of the most famous Mexican chocolates, Ibarra is known for its sweetened chocolate discs flavored with cinnamon and sugar. Traditionally used for hot chocolate drinks, it can also be eaten as candy.
Why It’s Popular:
The bold, aromatic blend of cocoa and cinnamon makes Ibarra more than just candy that starts with I. — it’s a cultural experience. It’s perfect for melting into milk or savoring piece by piece.
6. Island Punch Jelly Belly
Origin: United States
candy that starts with I. Type: Jelly Bean
From the world-renowned Jelly Belly company, the Island Punch flavor is a tropical delight. Each bean bursts with a mix of fruity notes — reminiscent of pineapple, berry, and passionfruit.
Why It’s Popular:
Tiny but flavorful, these jelly beans transport your taste buds to a sunny island vacation.
7. Ichigo Daifuku
Origin: Japan
Candy Type: Mochi-Based Sweet
Ichigo Daifuku is a traditional Japanese confection consisting of a fresh strawberry wrapped in sweet red bean paste and soft mochi (rice cake).
Though it’s not a typical “candy,” its sweetness, chewiness, and artistic form make it a treasured treat in Japanese culture.
Why It’s Popular:
Ichigo Daifuku is a symbol of spring and happiness in Japan — a treat for both the eyes and the palate.
8. Ice Cream Candy
Origin: Global
Candy Type: Novelty Candy
“Ice Cream Candy” can refer to several types of sweets inspired by ice cream flavors — like Chupa Chups Ice Cream Lollipops or Meiji Ice Cream Bars in Japan.
Popular Flavors Include:
- Vanilla
- Strawberry
- Mint Chocolate Chip
- Cookies & Cream
Why It’s Popular:
It’s dessert in candy form — no freezer, no melting, just pure creamy goodness!
9. Iced Gems
Origin: United Kingdom
Candy Type: Mini Biscuit Candy
Iced Gems are bite-sized British treats consisting of tiny biscuits topped with colorful royal icing. Manufactured by Fox’s Biscuits, they’ve been a childhood staple since the 20th century.
Why It’s Popular:
Iced Gems are charmingly nostalgic — bite-sized, crunchy, and topped with pastel frosting that melts in your mouth.
10. Ice Mint Candy
Origin: Global (Various Brands)
Candy Type: Hard Mint Candy
Ice Mint Candies are found worldwide, known for their crisp, cooling effect. Brands like Mentos, Altoids, and Clorets have “ice mint” versions — making them part candy, part breath freshener.
Why It’s Popular:
They offer instant freshness and sweetness, perfect for keeping in your pocket or bag throughout the day.
11. Irish Cream Fudge
Origin: Ireland
Candy Type: Fudge
Irish Cream Fudge brings the rich flavors of Baileys Irish Cream into soft, melt-in-your-mouth fudge form. Made with butter, cream, and chocolate, it’s both luxurious and comforting.
Why It’s Popular:
A perfect adult-friendly candy, it captures the indulgence of Irish cream in a delightful bite-sized dessert.
Fun Facts About “I” Candies
- Ice Breakers were among the first candies to introduce micro-crystals for an extra-cool feeling.
- The Idaho Spud Bar recipe has stayed unchanged for over 100 years.
- Ichigo Daifuku is often gifted during Japan’s spring festivals as a good luck charm.
- Ibarra Chocolate is a family staple in Mexico, often used during holidays like Día de los Muertos.
- Iced Gems were once rationed during WWII due to icing sugar shortages!
Healthier Candy Options That Start With I
If you’re watching your sugar intake but still crave something sweet, these “I” candies are great alternatives:
- Ice Chips Candy: Sugar-free, made with xylitol — gentle on teeth.
- Infused Fruit Gummies: Made from natural fruit extracts and sweeteners.
- Icy Popsicles (Sugar-Free): A refreshing, low-calorie treat option.
These options allow candy lovers to indulge without feeling guilty.
Cultural Significance of “I” Candies
Candies starting with “I” aren’t just tasty — they often hold cultural and emotional value:
- In Japan, sweets like Ichigo Daifuku represent balance and harmony.
- In Mexico, Ibarra chocolate symbolizes warmth and togetherness during family gatherings.
- In the U.S., nostalgic treats like Idaho Spud are reminders of classic Americana and simpler times.
Candies connect generations — and these “I” treats prove that sweetness transcends borders.
DIY Recipe: Icy Lemon Mints
Want to make your own homemade “I” candy? Try these Icy Lemon Mints — refreshing, simple, and perfect for gifting.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp lemon extract
- ¼ tsp mint extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat sugar and water in a saucepan until it reaches 300°F (hard-crack stage).
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon and mint extracts.
- Pour onto a greased tray and let cool slightly.
- Break into small pieces once hardened.
Now you’ve created your very own “I” candy — crisp, sweet, and refreshing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are the most popular candies that start with I?
The most popular include Ice Breakers, Idaho Spud, Ibarra Chocolate, and Island Punch Jelly Belly.
Q2: Are there any international candies starting with I?
Yes! Ichigo Daifuku from Japan and Ibarra Chocolate from Mexico are international favorites.
Q3: Is Idaho Spud still made today?
Yes. The Idaho Candy Company still produces this nostalgic candy bar using its original 1918 recipe.
Q4: What candy that starts with I is best for parties or gifts?
Iced Gems and Italian Torrone make excellent party treats or gift box additions.
Q5: Are Ice Breakers considered candy or mints?
They’re technically mints but are sweet enough to be classified as both.
Q6: What candy that starts with I is easy to make at home?
Try making Icy Lemon Mints or Irish Cream Fudge — both simple and delicious.
Q7: Are there sugar-free options that start with I?
Yes! Ice Chips Candy and sugar-free Ice Breakers are popular low-sugar alternatives.
