We’re chatting about the Charleston Chew — a chewy nougat candy bar with a milk chocolate coating. Say that five times fast.
Is the Charleston Chew related to the Holy City? Yes and no. Fox-Cross Candy Company made the Charleston Chew in 1925, naming it after the Charleston dance craze. This lively jig is believed to have originated on the coast of Charleston, inspired by a dance called the “Juba.” Swing into the history of the Charleston dance here.
In 1957, Nathan Sloane bought Fox-Cross Candy Company and made history as the first candy maker to suggest freezing the candy to enjoy it in a new way. “Charleston Chew crack” became popular — made by freezing the treat and then smashing it to enjoy the little frozen bites.
What you may not know: There are three different flavors — strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla. How will you ever chews? Maybe we can help. We tried each one and rated them out of five with candy bar emojis.
- Chocolate (black wrapper) 🍫🍫🍫
This double chocolate treat will cure your sweet tooth. Pro tip: Have a glass of cold milk at the ready. - Vanilla (yellow wrapper) 🍫🍫🍫🍫
The original vanilla is the perfect complement to the chocolate coating. Pro tip: Heat it up for 10 seconds for a gooey treat. - Strawberry (pink wrapper) 🍫🍫🍫🍫🍫
The fruity filling gives an extra punch of flavor. Pro tip: Pop ’em in the freezer for an hour and then crack ’em.
Where to get them in town: You can pick up these sweet treats at OMG! Candy Store on King Street. We also spotted them in a bowl for customers at julep boutique across from Harken Cafe. They come in minis, rollers, small bars, and originals (FYI, the original size is pretty big).
Tear into one of those sunshine yellow wrappers for a little extra sweetness this spring.