Cinnamon Bear Candy: History, Flavor & Where to Buy

Cinnamon Bear candy is a soft, chewy cinnamon-flavored confection produced by Spangler Candy Company since 1924, featuring a distinctive bear-shaped design and known for its balanced sweet-spicy cinnamon flavor without the intense heat of other cinnamon candies.

What Makes Cinnamon Bear Candy Unique Among Cinnamon Treats

When searching for what is cinnamon bear candy, consumers discover a nostalgic treat that stands apart from other cinnamon confections. Unlike the fiery intensity of Red Hots or the hard texture of Atomic Fireballs, Cinnamon Bear offers a gentle introduction to cinnamon flavoring. Each piece delivers a consistent, medium-strength cinnamon experience wrapped in a soft, chewy texture that appeals to both children and adults seeking cinnamon candy without overwhelming heat.

The History Behind America's Beloved Cinnamon Bear

Understanding the history of cinnamon bear candy reveals its enduring appeal. Spangler Candy Company introduced Cinnamon Bear in 1924, making it one of the oldest continuously produced cinnamon candies in America. The candy gained popularity during the Great Depression as an affordable luxury, with its distinctive bear-shaped pieces becoming a recognizable symbol of quality cinnamon flavor. Originally sold in bulk bins at five-and-dime stores, Cinnamon Bear transitioned to packaged formats as retail evolved, maintaining its classic recipe through decades of changing candy preferences.

Flavor Profile and Ingredients Analysis

For those researching cinnamon bear candy ingredients, the formulation remains remarkably simple: sugar, corn syrup, cinnamon flavoring, and food coloring. Unlike many modern candies loaded with artificial additives, Cinnamon Bear maintains a straightforward ingredient list that contributes to its clean flavor profile. The candy achieves its signature taste through a careful balance of cinnamon oil and other natural flavorings, creating a warm, spicy-sweet experience without the mouth-numbing intensity found in competitor products.

Candy Type	Texture	Cinnamon Intensity	Recommended For
Cinnamon Bear	Soft, chewy	Moderate	Children, cinnamon beginners
Red Hots	Hard	Very high	Experienced cinnamon lovers
Atomic Fireballs	Hard shell, soft center	High	Those seeking intense heat
Hot Tamales	Chewy	Moderate-high	Those preferring fruit-cinnamon blend

Cinnamon Bear vs Other Cinnamon Candies

When comparing cinnamon bear vs red hots, the differences become immediately apparent. While Red Hots deliver an intense, almost medicinal cinnamon blast that builds with each piece, Cinnamon Bear provides a more approachable experience. The soft texture allows the flavor to develop gradually, making it suitable for younger candy enthusiasts or those with sensitive palates. This distinction explains why many consumers searching for where to buy cinnamon bear candy specifically seek it out as a family-friendly alternative to more aggressive cinnamon treats.

Current Availability and Where to Find Authentic Cinnamon Bear

Despite changes in the candy industry, Spangler continues producing authentic Cinnamon Bear candy, addressing the common question of is cinnamon bear candy still made. Today, you can find these nostalgic treats in various formats including the classic 5-ounce boxes, larger sharing bags, and seasonal holiday packaging. Major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Kroger typically carry Cinnamon Bear in their candy aisles, while online marketplaces provide convenient access for those searching where to buy cinnamon bear candy online. Specialty candy stores and nostalgic treat websites also feature this classic confection, often alongside vintage packaging options that appeal to collectors.

Nutritional Information and Consumption Considerations

For health-conscious consumers examining cinnamon bear candy nutrition facts, each serving (about 9 pieces) contains approximately 110 calories, 28g of carbohydrates, and 19g of sugar. Like most traditional candies, Cinnamon Bear should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The candy contains no fat or protein, making it primarily a source of quick energy rather than nutritional value. Those with specific dietary restrictions should note that Cinnamon Bear contains corn syrup and is produced in facilities that process other allergens, though it remains gluten-free and suitable for vegetarians.

The Enduring Cultural Significance of Cinnamon Bear

Cinnamon Bear has maintained cultural relevance through generations, becoming more than just a candy but a touchstone of American confectionery history. Its gentle cinnamon profile has made it a popular choice for school treats, movie theater concessions, and holiday stockings. The candy's distinctive bear shape has become iconic, with many adults seeking it out for nostalgic reasons when searching cinnamon bear candy review or reminiscing about childhood treats. This enduring appeal demonstrates how a simple, well-executed candy concept can withstand changing tastes and market trends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cinnamon Bear candy still being manufactured today?

Yes, Spangler Candy Company continues to manufacture Cinnamon Bear candy using the original recipe. The candy remains widely available in major retailers across the United States and through various online candy distributors.

How does Cinnamon Bear differ from other cinnamon candies like Red Hots?

Cinnamon Bear features a soft, chewy texture and moderate cinnamon intensity, making it significantly milder than Red Hots, which are hard candies with intense, building heat. Cinnamon Bear provides a balanced sweet-spicy experience suitable for children and those who prefer less intense cinnamon flavoring.

Where can I purchase authentic Cinnamon Bear candy?

Authentic Cinnamon Bear candy is available at major retailers including Walmart, Target, and Kroger. You can also find it through online candy retailers, Spangler's official website, and specialty nostalgic candy stores that carry classic American confections.

Does Cinnamon Bear candy contain any common allergens?

Cinnamon Bear candy is gluten-free and does not contain nuts, but it is produced in facilities that process other allergens. The primary ingredients are sugar, corn syrup, cinnamon flavoring, and food coloring. Those with corn allergies should note the presence of corn syrup in the formulation.

What is the shelf life of Cinnamon Bear candy?

When stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, Cinnamon Bear candy maintains optimal quality for 12-18 months. The soft chewy texture may gradually harden over time, but the candy remains safe to consume well beyond the printed expiration date if properly stored.