12 Old Fashioned Candy Recipes

There’s something extra special about old fashioned candy recipes—they bring back sweet memories of grandma’s kitchen and the magic of handmade treats during the holiday season.

Collage of old-fashioned candy recipes with photos and ingredients. Includes treats like honeycomb, divinity, and pralines.

I still remember standing on a stool, helping mom stir fudge or sneaking a piece of brittle when no one was looking.

Whether you’re recreating childhood favorites or starting new traditions, these old fashion candies are packed with flavor and make perfect homemade gifts or classic Christmas candy.

From melt-in-your-mouth toffee to chocolate peanut butter balls, each recipe is a nostalgic favorite and simple enough to make in your own kitchen. So grab your ingredients, clear some counter space, and get ready to whip up some truly delicious treats!

Tips for Making Old Fashioned Candy at Home

Prep your ingredients before starting. Prep your ingredients before starting. Many candies move fast once cooking begins—so have everything ready, including pre-measured ingredients and prepared baking sheets.
Use a candy thermometer when needed. Some candies require precise temperature control, especially those made with corn syrup or boiled sugar mixtures.
Package for gifting. These candies make charming homemade gifts for the holiday season. Use tins, treat bags, or mason jars for a nostalgic touch.
Store properly. Some candies do best in an airtight container at room temperature; others should be stored in the refrigerator. Check each recipe for specific storage instructions.
Watch the weather. High humidity can affect the texture of certain candies like divinity or brittle.

Old Fashioned Homemade Candy Recipes

Click on any photo or button to take you to the individual recipe instructions.

Honeycomb candy coated in chocolate and topped with white chocolate drizzle and Christmas sprinkles.

Chocolate Covered Honeycomb Candy

This crisp and airy treat has a satisfying crunch and a rich chocolate coating. Made with corn syrup, honey, baking soda, and other simple ingredients, it tastes like something straight from a vintage candy shop.

Get Honeycomb Recipe

Martha Washington Candy

A creamy coconut and cherry center coated in chocolate—these bite-sized candies are a vintage recipe that has stood the test of time. They make a festive addition to holiday platters or sweet homemade gifts.

Get Martha Washington Candy Recipe

Southern Pecan Pralines

Classic old fashion candy at its best, these Southern pecan pralines are buttery, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth good. Pecans and a creamy caramel base make them irresistible!

Get Praline Recipe

Stacked chocolate-covered toffee candy squares with visible layers of toffee and chocolate, topped with crushed pecans for a crunchy finish.

English Toffee

One of my personal favorites, this buttery homemade candy is layered with chocolate and sprinkled with almonds for the perfect crunch. It's one of those old fashioned candy recipes you’ll want to make several batches of all year long!

Get English Toffee Recipe

Plate of classic divinity cookies topped with pecans.

Divinity Candy

Also referred to as “Divinity Cookies,” this fluffy, marshmallow-like treat has a light, cloud-like texture and subtle vanilla flavor. It’s a vintage recipe that’s especially popular during the holidays.

Get Divinity Recipe

Rum Balls

No-bake and full of rich chocolate and warm spice, these rum balls are a grown-up treat with serious holiday flair. They’re a perfect Christmas candy and an indulgent treat for gifting.

Get Rum Balls Recipe

Peanut butter buckeye balls stacked on a white plate.

Peanut Butter Buckeyes

These classic chocolate peanut butter balls are loved by kids and adults alike. Creamy, sweet, and easy to make—what more could you want?

Get Buckeyes Recipe

Peanut Butter Fritos Candy

Sweet, salty, and seriously addictive, this no-bake candy combines crunchy Fritos, creamy peanut butter, and a sweet glaze. It’s the kind of treat that disappears fast.

Get Fritos Candy Recipe

Rocky Road Candy

Loaded with marshmallows, chocolate, and crunchy nuts, this simple no-bake candy has unbeatable texture and taste. A classic treat that's sure to be a hit any time of year.

Get Rocky Road Recipe

Nut Brittle

This old fashion candy is sweet, crunchy, and absolutely packed with nutty goodness. It’s a must-make during the holiday season and tastes just like grandma’s.

Get Nut Brittle Recipe

Crockpot Candy

Let the slow cooker do the work! This hands-off homemade candy combines chocolate, nuts, and candy coating for a treat that’s perfect for holiday trays and party favors.

Get Crockpot Candy Recipe

Homemade pecan turtle candy piled on a plate, combining pecans, caramel, and chocolate for a classic dessert.

Pecan Turtles Candy

These homemade turtles feature a gooey caramel center, crunchy pecans, and a smooth chocolate shell. Just like the candies from a fancy chocolate shop—only better!

Get Pecan Turtles Recipe

I hope you enjoy these vintage candy recipes as much as my family does!

Please let us know which ones you try—and how you liked them!