Support Us Button Widget

Are Charleston Chews named after Charleston, SC?

IMG_2897

Try frozen. | Photo by CHStoday

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.

img-2892-300x225.jpg

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.

More from CHStoday
Charleston is among the hottest real estate markets heading into 2026, so we wanted to investigate.
A grassroots effort is helping Lowcountry properties become part of a nationwide habitat network.
Our readers have spoken — here are the best local spots our city has to offer, from the best coffee shop to the best apartment complex to the best dentist.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Directly north, east, south, and west, the world awaits.
The 16th annual edition of Small Business Saturday falls on November 29 — the perfect time to help you add a local sparkle to your holiday shopping.
We’ll get it started with a family road trip along Route 66 to Charleston in the 1970s.
The Charles Towne Farms development emphasizes open green spaces, luxury living, and architectural design.
From creamy chowders to hearty broths, these local favorites will keep you toasty all season long.
These holiday pop-up bars will get you in the festive mood.