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Liquorice Sweets
Love it or hate it, liquorice is one of those sweets that sparks strong opinions. But for those who adore its distinctive taste, there's nothing quite like the deep, complex flavour of proper liquorice. Whether you're after traditional black sticks, soft chewy pieces, or something with a modern twist, we've got the perfect liquorice sweet waiting for you.
What Makes Liquorice Sweets Special?
Liquorice sweets get their unique flavour from the liquorice plant root, which has been used for centuries. The natural sweetness combined with that characteristic aniseed-like taste creates something truly memorable. Today's liquorice sweets come in all sorts of forms - from classic boiled sweets with a liquorice twist to soft and chewy varieties that melt in your mouth.
The beauty of liquorice is its versatility. You'll find it mixed with other flavours like toffee, cherry, or even mint. Some liquorice sweets pack a salty punch (particularly popular in Scandinavian countries), whilst others balance the liquorice with creamy textures or fruity notes.
How Are Liquorice Sweets Made?
Traditional liquorice sweets start with liquorice extract, which comes from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant. This extract gets mixed with sugar, flour, and other ingredients to create different textures. Some manufacturers add molasses for extra depth, whilst others include aniseed oil to enhance that distinctive flavour.
The mixture gets heated, shaped, and cooled depending on the type of sweet being made. Soft liquorice might be extruded into pencils, laces, and belts, whilst harder varieties are boiled and moulded into specific shapes.
What Types of Liquorice Sweets Can You Buy?
The variety is impressive. You've got your classic liquorice allsorts, those colourful layered sweets that combine liquorice with fondant and coconut. Then there are liquorice wheels (also called Catherine wheels), liquorice torpedoes filled with sherbet, and pure liquorice sticks for the purists.
Modern liquorice sweets include everything from fizzy liquorice combinations to chocolate-covered liquorice bites. You'll even find liquorice toffees and liquorice-flavoured jellies. For those watching their diet, many liquorice sweets are naturally suitable for vegetarians, though always check the label to be sure.
Where Can You Find Quality Liquorice Sweets?
Finding good liquorice sweets isn't tricky, but finding exceptional ones takes a bit more effort. Look for traditional sweet shops that stock premium brands and artisanal varieties. Online retailers often have the widest selection, including imported liquorice from countries known for their liquorice traditions like Finland, the Netherlands, and Italy.
Our sweet collection includes both British classics and international favourites. We source from manufacturers who understand that proper liquorice sweets need quality ingredients and time-honoured recipes.
Why Do People Love Liquorice Sweets?
For liquorice lovers, it's all about that complex flavour profile. Unlike simple sugary sweets, liquorice offers layers of taste: sweet, slightly bitter, aromatic, and sometimes salty. It's a grown-up flavour that many people develop a taste for over time.
There's also nostalgia at play. Many of us remember liquorice sweets from childhood - perhaps sneaking a liquorice allsort from the tin at your nan's house or buying liquorice laces with pocket money. These memories make liquorice sweets more than just confectionery; they're a link to the past.
How Should You Store Liquorice Sweets?
Proper storage keeps your liquorice sweets at their best. Keep them in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat. Soft liquorice can dry out if exposed to air, becoming challenging and less enjoyable. Hard liquorice sweets can become sticky in humid conditions.
Most liquorice sweets will stay fresh for several months when stored properly. If you're buying in bulk, consider dividing them into smaller portions and only opening what you need. This way, the rest stays fresher for longer.
Liquorice sweets offer something different in the world of confectionery. Whether you prefer traditional black liquorice or enjoy the creative combinations available today, there's a liquorice sweet out there for you. Ready to explore? Browse our selection and rediscover why liquorice has been a favourite for generations. From classic allsorts to innovative new creations, we've got the liquorice sweets that'll satisfy your craving.
