Candy Hearts Coloring Pages

Candy hearts were invented in 1866 by Oliver Chase, a Boston pharmacist who created a machine to cut shapes from his medicinal lozenges. He accidentally discovered how to make conversation hearts, which became popular Valentine's Day candies. Over 150 years later, they remain a beloved holiday tradition worldwide.

The messages were inspired by conversation lozenges, medicinal tablets from Victorian times that had words printed on them. When candy makers realized people enjoyed the fun of reading little sayings, they adapted the idea for sweets. Today, messages like 'Be Mine' and 'I Love You' make candy hearts perfect for sharing feelings.

Approximately 8 billion candy hearts are manufactured annually, most during January and February for Valentine's Day. If lined up end to end, that's enough to circle the Earth nearly 20 times! The Necco Wafer Company has been the primary maker for generations, though other companies now produce them too.

Traditional candy hearts come in flavors like cherry, orange, lemon, lime, grape, and wintergreen, each with a different color. Modern varieties now include fruity blends, sour versions, and even seasonal flavors. Different brands have added creative options like root beer, berry, and tropical fruit blends to expand flavor choices.

Candy hearts are primarily made from sugar, corn syrup, gum arabic, gelatin, and various food colorings and flavorings. The mixture is heated, poured into molds, cooled, and then stamped with messages. They're surprisingly simple candies, which is part of their nostalgic charm and affordability.

Yes! While classics like 'Be Mine' and 'I Love You' have stayed for decades, manufacturers regularly update messages to reflect modern language. Recent additions include texting-style phrases, funny sayings, and even personalized versions. This keeps the tradition fresh while honoring its historical roots.