On April 22nd, it’s time to celebrate one of the sweetest, most beloved candies around: Jelly beans! With a range of fruity flavors and classic favorites, jelly beans have been an enjoyable snack for generations. But few people know the colorful history of these delightful treats. On National Jelly Bean Day, let’s take a look back at the jelly beans’ fascinating journey from the earliest days of confectionery to today.
The History of the Jelly Bean
When most people think about jelly beans, they think about the bright, flavorful candy we all recognize today. However, the jelly bean’s history dates back to the Middle East during the Ancient Egyptian times. It was during this period that people began crafting their own sweet treats out of a combination of nuts and spices, before eventually turning to the use of fruit and honey. Over the following centuries, the jellied candies increasingly became popular, sparking the beginnings of what would eventually become known as jelly beans.
In the 19th century, the jelly bean we now recognize came into existence. This particular version of the candy was made in Boston and called “Boston Beans.” These beans were much different than their predecessor in that they didn’t contain any fruit filling. Instead, they featured a firm outside shell and a soft inside, which is essentially the same recipe used for jelly beans today.
As time passed and the popularity of the sweet treat grew, jelly beans became a staple of Easter baskets and other holiday celebrations. Later on, the jelly bean evolved yet again when the first fruity flavors began to emerge, such as cherry and strawberry.
So this National Jelly Bean Day, take a moment to appreciate the history of this beloved treat. From its nutty beginnings to the modern fruity flavors we know and love, jelly beans have remained one of the world’s tastiest snacks for centuries. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a classic favorite, or embrace a new flavor, jelly beans are a great way to bring a little sweetness into your life.
Read More: 12 Charming & Incredibly Easy Recipes For Easter
Favorite Jelly Bean Recipes
For those looking to take their love of jelly beans to the next level, there are plenty of creative ways to incorporate these tasty treats into recipes and crafts. Here are a few fun and innovative jelly bean recipes:
- Jelly Bean Cupcakes – This playful and easy-to-make recipe is the perfect way to add some extra fun to your day. To make these cupcakes, start by mixing together a simple vanilla cupcake batter. Have plenty of jelly beans on hand for filling and topping. These playful and creative cupcakes are perfect for sharing with friends and family, or for indulging in as a special treat yourself.
- Jelly Bean Fudge – Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this colorful and playful jelly bean fudge recipe! To make this fudge, start by mixing white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a saucepan over low heat until melted and smooth. Then, remove from heat and mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Next, stir in colorful jelly beans to create a playful and festive treat. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and refrigerate until firm. Once set, cut into small pieces and enjoy the delicious and colorful fudge.
- Jelly Bean Bark – Indulge in a playful and colorful treat with this delightful jelly bean bark recipe! To make this bark, start by melting white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave. Once melted, spread the chocolate evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle colorful jelly beans over the chocolate and press them down gently. Chill the bark in the refrigerator until firm, then break it into pieces and enjoy!
- Jelly Bean Cheesecake – This pretty dessert is sure to impress with its eye-catching presentation and delicious flavor. To make this cheesecake, start by crushing biscuits and mixing them with melted butter to create a base. Then, mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Add gelatin and whipped cream, then pour the mixture over the biscuit base. Finally, top with colorful jelly beans and refrigerate until set. The result is a stunning and delicious cheesecake bursting with color and flavor.
- Jelly Bean Popcorn – This delightful jelly bean popcorn recipe is a fun celebration of jelly beans in one of everyone’s favorite treats, popcorn! Start by popping some popcorn kernels and spreading them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Melt some white chocolate chips and pour them over the popcorn, then add a handful of colorful jelly beans and toss until coated. Chill in the refrigerator until the chocolate has hardened, then break it into pieces and enjoy the sweet and crunchy snack.
- Jelly Bean Ice Cream – To make this cool and colorful ice cream, start by mixing jelly beans with heavy cream, sugar, and whole milk in a saucepan. Heat the mixture until it comes to a boil, stirring occasionally. Then, remove from heat and let it cool down. Once cooled, blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. Finally, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The result is a delightful and fun dessert that’s perfect for enjoying on a hot summer day.
- Jellybean Trail Mix – Take your snack game to the next level with this creative and colorful “J is for Jelly bean” trail mix recipe! This playful snack is perfect for incorporating some extra fun into your child’s letter of the week learning experience. Gather up all of your favorite ingredients like jelly beans, peanuts, marshmallows, and dry cereal. Then, mix them all together in a large bowl to create a colorful and delicious snack that’s sure to please. You can also add in any other ingredients you like for an extra special twist. Separate into individual bowls for the kids to enjoy.
Read More: 18 Incredible Easter Basket Ideas To Make Your Little One Hop With Joy
Fun Jelly Bean Crafts
Jelly beans are also a popular ingredient in crafts, and there are plenty of fun and creative ways to use them in DIY projects. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Jelly Bean Mosaic Art – With just a few simple materials like jelly beans, glue, and a piece of cardboard or poster board, you can create a beautiful and unique mosaic that’s sure to delight! To make this craft, start by drawing a simple design or shape on your cardboard or poster board. Then, use glue to carefully place a variety of colorful jelly beans onto the surface, filling in the shape or design. The result is a fun and engaging art project that’s perfect for kids of all ages.
- Jelly Bean Picture Frame – Looking for a simple and stylish way to add some Easter cheer to your home decor? Check out this charming Easter subway art craft! With just a few simple materials like cardstock, markers, and some festive Easter-themed cutouts, you can create a beautiful and eye-catching decoration that’s sure to delight your guests. Use fun and playful Easter-themed words and phrases like “hoppy Easter” or “egg-citing adventures.” Be sure to finish with an adorable jelly bean frame!
- Jelly Bean Bracelet – Accessorize with a fun and playful accessory that’s perfect for springtime with this DIY jelly bean bracelet! With just a few simple materials like stretch cord and colorful jelly beans, you can create a charming and whimsical accessory that’s sure to brighten up any outfit. To make this bracelet, start by stringing a variety of jelly beans onto a stretch cord in whatever pattern or color scheme you like. Then, tie the ends of the cord together to create a loop. The result is a sweet and playful accessory that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Jelly Bean Wreath – For a festive way to decorate your front door for Easter, check out this adorable candy Easter wreath! With just a few simple materials like a wreath form, hot glue, and lots of candy, you can create a charming and whimsical decoration that’s sure to delight your guests. You can also add a cute little Easter-themed embellishment like a chick or bunny to give the wreath some extra personality.
- Jelly Bean Candle Holder – If you need a unique and eye-catching centerpiece for your Easter celebration, check out this fun and festive candle holder! Using just a few simple materials like tulips, Peeps, and jelly beans, you can create a beautiful and colorful decoration that’s sure to delight your guests. To make this centerpiece, start by arranging a bouquet of tulips in a vase filled with water. Then, surround the base of the vase with brightly colored Peeps to add a playful touch. Finally, sprinkle a layer of jelly beans around the Peeps to create a vibrant and cheerful border. The result is a stunning and whimsical centerpiece that perfectly captures the spirit of the season. So whether you’re hosting a family brunch or just looking to add a touch of Easter cheer to your home, this tulip, Peep, and jelly bean vase is a fun and festive way to do it!
- Jelly Bean Vase – With just a few simple materials like a jar, jelly beans, and a bit of ribbon, you can create this adorable jelly bean jar DIY Easter centerpiece. Start by filling a jar with layers of colorful jelly beans. Then, tie a pretty ribbon around the jar to add a touch of elegance and charm. The result is a sweet and cheerful decoration that’s sure to bring on the smiles!
- Jelly Bean Butterflies – The little ones with love these adorable jelly bean butterfly treat bags. With just a few simple materials, you can create a whole swarm of these cute and colorful creatures that are sure to delight kids and adults alike. All you need is a pack of jelly beans, some sandwich bags, and a handful of pipe cleaners. Fill each bag with a generous portion of jelly beans, then twist the center of the bag to create the butterfly’s body. Add a set of antennae and a pair of wings made from pipe cleaners, and voila! You’ve got yourself a charming little butterfly treat bag that’s perfect for sharing!
Read More: How To Make The Best Candy Charcuterie Board
On April 22nd, people around the world celebrate National Jelly Bean Day. Jelly beans are a classic candy that have been enjoyed for centuries. Their unique texture, sweet flavor, and variety of colors make them a favorite for people of all ages. As we’ve seen, jelly beans have an interesting and rich history. The recipe and flavor of jelly beans has evolved over time due to advances in science and technology, which has allowed candy makers to create unprecedented flavors and color combinations.
While National Jelly Bean Day is a great time to indulge in this classic confection, we can appreciate the sweet history that goes into every bite. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or more adventurous ones, jelly beans are the perfect treat to celebrate National Jelly Bean Day. So break out the candies and get creative in the kitchen or with some fun crafts!
WANT TO READ MORE?
If you’re looking for another great Easter-inspired read, check out The Incredible History Of The Easter Bunny.
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