21 BEST Gluten-Free Licorice for 2023

Having trouble finding gluten-free licorice? That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top gluten-free licorice options that will satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your health. 

So what makes a good gluten-free licorice? Firstly,  it should taste just as good as regular licorice. The texture should be chewy but not too hard, and the flavor should be rich and satisfying. 

Additionally, it should be made with high-quality ingredients, free from any additives or preservatives that can be harmful to your health. 

We’ve done the legwork for you and have narrowed down the best options based on several factors (taste, texture, quality of  ingredients, and value for money.)

Best Gluten-Free Licorice

Regular Licorice vs Gluten Free Licorice

What makes gluten-free licorice different from regular non-gluten-free licorice? Well,  gluten-free licorice is made without wheat flour or any other gluten-containing ingredients.  

Instead, manufacturers use alternative flour such as rice flour, cornstarch, or potato starch to achieve the right texture and consistency. Additionally, gluten-free licorice often uses natural sweeteners instead of high-fructose corn syrup, which can be harmful to your health. 

We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy the sweet taste of licorice, regardless of dietary restrictions. That’s why we’ve curated this list of the best gluten-free licorice options available in the USA market. So, grab a bag of your favorite flavor and indulge in guilt-free snacking! 

1. YumEarth Organic Gluten-Free Licorice Black 

YumEarth Organic Gluten-Free Licorice Black 

Description

This product is a pack of 142g black licorice twists that are certified organic, gluten-free,  and non-GMO. The licorice is made with real fruit juice and without any artificial colors or  flavors. 

It is also free from high fructose corn syrup, which is a plus for people who are  concerned about their sugar intake. The licorice has a soft texture and a rich flavor that is  not overpowering and is perfect for people who want a healthy and tasty snack.

Pros

• Certified organic and gluten-free 

• Made with real fruit juice 

• Soft texture and rich flavor 

Cons

• might be too sweet for some people 

Ingredients

organic rice flour, organic brown rice syrup, organic cane sugar, organic cane sugar  molasses, organic corn starch, organic licorice extract, organic palm fruit oil, salt, natural  flavor, organic carnauba wax, organic sunflower oil. 

Price per unit: $10.75 at Happy Tummies

2. Lakrids A – The Original Chocolate-Coated Licorice 

Lakrids A - The Original Chocolate-Coated Licorice 

Description

Lakrids A is a unique and delicious blend of sweet and salty flavors, featuring a soft and  chewy licorice core coated with high-quality Belgian chocolate. The licorice used in this  product is of the highest quality, sourced from Italy and Spain, and the chocolate is crafted  using sustainably sourced cocoa. 

This combination of premium ingredients creates an  irresistible taste that is sure to please any licorice lover. Lakrids A is the original chocolate coated licorice and has been a favorite of customers for many years. 

Pros

• sweet and salty flavors creates a unique and delicious taste. 

• sustainably sourced cocoa and premium licorice. 

Cons

• Higher price point

Ingredients:

Milk Chocolate [sugar, cocoa butter, milk, chocolate liquor, lecithin (soy), natural vanilla  flavor, rice flour, invert sugar, sugar, molasses, spray-dried licorice, glucose syrup, canola  oil, salt, natural anise flavor, confectioner’s glaze.. 

Price per unit: $20.50 for a 10.41 oz (295 g) box at Licorice International

3. Katjes Katzen-Pfötchen Paws 

Katjes Katzen-Pfötchen Paws

Description

Katjes Katzen-Pfötchen Paws are a delicious and chewy licorice candy that come in the  shape of cat paws. These gluten-free candies are made with real licorice root extract,  giving them a rich and authentic flavor. 

The texture of the candy is soft and chewy, making  them an enjoyable treat for all ages. 

Pros

• Made with real licorice root extract 

• Gluten-free 

• Fun and unique cat paw shape 

Cons

• Quite strong licorice flavor 

• The texture may be too chewy for some 

Ingredients: Sugar, glucose syrup, glucose-fructose syrup, starch, licorice extract (8.7%),  brown sugar syrup, modified starch, flavors, herbal extracts, vegetable oil (sunflower),  coating agent: carnauba wax. May contain traces of milk. 

Price per unit: $4.75 (200g/7 oz) at Licorice International

4. Serra Hard Filled Licorice 

Serra Hard Filled Licorice 

Description

Serra Hard Filled Licorice is a classic candy from Spain that’s famous for its hard and  chewy texture and a unique combination of flavors. It features a black licorice shell that’s  filled with a soft and creamy center made with natural vanilla flavor. 

The licorice has a bold  and intense taste that’s not overpowering and has a pleasant aroma that’s irresistible. The  candy comes in a convenient 3.52-ounce bag that’s perfect for snacking or sharing with  friends and family. 

Pros

• Perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness 

• Convenient and resealable packaging

Cons

• NA

Ingredients

Sugar, glucose syrup, PDO licorice extract of Calabria, natural flavor. 

Price per unit: $3.00 per bag (3.52 ounces) on the Licorice International.

5. Black Taffy  

Black Taffy

Description

If you’re a fan of chewy candies with a rich licorice flavor, then Black Taffy is the perfect  treat for you. This classic candy is made with a unique combination of molasses and  licorice extract, creating a flavor that’s bold and satisfying. 

The taffy is soft and chewy,  making it a great snack for anytime you need a little pick-me-up. Each piece is individually  wrapped, making it easy to share with friends and family. 

Pros

• The flavor is intense and satisfying. 

• individually wrapped pieces 

Cons

• NA

Ingredients

Corn syrup, sugar, palm oil and/or palm kernel oil, mono & diglycerides, soya lecithin,  artificial flavors, salt, vanillin and colorings, Red 40, Yellow 5&6 and Blue 1. 

Price per unit: 1/2 lb bag of Black Taffy is $4.00 at Licorice International.

6. Licorice Jelly Pretzels 

Licorice Jelly Pretzels

Description

Indulge in a unique and delicious combination of sweet and salty flavors with Licorice Jelly  Pretzels. These pretzels are coated with a soft and chewy licorice jelly layer that adds an  exciting twist to the classic pretzel taste. 

The combination of the soft jelly and crunchy  pretzel creates a satisfying texture that makes them perfect for snacking or sharing with 

friends and family. 

Pros

• Unique combination of sweet and salty flavors. 

• Chewy texture of licorice jelly layer. 

Cons

• The texture may be too chewy for some 

Ingredients: 

Glucose syrup, sugar, gelatin (pork), modified food starch, licorice root extract, ammonium  chloride, dextrin, flavor, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Red 40, Blue 1. 

Price per unit: $4.95 for 1/2 lb (227g) at Licorice International.

7. Kerr’s Licorice Toffee 

Kerr's Licorice Toffee

Description

Kerr’s Licorice Toffee is a Canadian classic treat that has been satisfying candy lovers  since 1895. It is a unique combination of smooth toffee and black licorice flavor, creating a  delightful taste that melts in your mouth. 

The candy comes in a 5 oz. bag that is easy to  carry and perfect for snacking on the go. 

Pros

• Unique proprietary flavor

• Comes in a resealable bag 

Cons

• too sweet for some individuals 

• high sugar content

Ingredients: Corn syrup, sugar, coconut oil, dry whole milk, sorbitol, salt, artificial colors  (blue #2, caramel, red #40, yellow #6), mono and diglycerides, natural and artificial flavor,  soy lecithin. Made with milk. Gluten free, peanut free, tree-nut free, kosher. 

Price per unit: $4.75 for a 5 oz bag at Licorice International

8. Licorice Jelly Beans 

Licorice Jelly Beans

Description

If you love the flavor of licorice, then these Licorice Jelly Beans are a must-try for you.  These jelly beans have a soft and chewy texture, bursting with the classic taste of licorice.  

Each bite will give you the right amount of sweetness and the perfect blend of anise and  molasses flavor. 

Pros

• Perfect size and texture for snacking 

• Comes in a resealable bag 

Cons

•Contains gelatin, so not suitable for vegetarians or vegans 

Ingredients: Sugar, corn syrup, modified food starch, contains 2% or less of the following:  natural and artificial flavors, color added, Blue 2 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, beeswax, carnauba  wax, confectioner’s glaze. 

Price per unit: $4.95 for ½ lbs at Licorice International

9. Black Scotties 

Black Scotties 

Description

Black Scotties are a premium quality licorice candy that offers a classic flavor and a  satisfying chewy texture. Each piece is made with natural ingredients, including real  licorice root extract, which gives it a distinct and delicious taste. 

The candy is free from  artificial flavors, preservatives, and colors, making it a healthier alternative to other candy  options. Black Scotties are a perfect snack for licorice lovers who want to indulge in a guilt 

free treat. 

Pros

• Made with real licorice root extract

• Soft and chewy texture that provides a satisfying experience. 

• Free from artificial flavors, preservatives, and colors

Cons

• NA

Ingredients

Corn Syrup, Sugar, Modified Corn Starch, Modified Potato Starch, Water, Caramel Color,  Contains 2% or less of the following : Vegetable Oils (Coconut and Canola), Carnauba  Wax, Anise Oil, Licorice Root Extract, and Salt. Contains: Tree Nuts (Includes Coconut) 

Price per unit: $15.00 for 1 pound tube at Licorice.com.

10. Candy Tree Organic Strawberry Twists

Candy Tree Organic Strawberry Twists

Description:  

Candy Tree Organic Strawberry Twists are a delicious candy that is made with all organic  ingredients. These twists are perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a sweet treat without  the worry of consuming artificial ingredients. 

The candy is gluten-free, vegan, and free of  common allergens such as soy, dairy, and nuts, making it a great option for individuals with  dietary restrictions. 

Pros

• Made with all organic ingredients 

• Gluten-free and free of most common allergens 

Cons

• Relatively high in sugar content compared to some other candy options 

Ingredients: organic corn syrup, organic rice flour, organic rice starch, organic apple juice,  organic concentrated fruit juice (strawberry 3%), elderberry, organic flavor: strawberry,  citric acid.  

Price per Unit: $3.99 for 2.60 oz (74g) at Gluten Free Mall.

You may also like: Dairy Free G.F. Desserts

11. Neon Bears Dutch Liquorice Fruit Gums Gluten-Free Sweets 

Neon Bears Dutch Liquorice Fruit Gums Gluten-Free Sweets

Description

Neon Bears Dutch Liquorice Fruit Gums are chewy, fruity and delicious gluten-free sweets  made in the Netherlands. These neon-colored bear-shaped fruit gums are infused with a  hint of licorice that adds an extra dimension of flavor to the fruity taste. 

Made with natural colors and flavors, these gluten-free sweets are suitable for vegetarians and free from high  fructose corn syrup, GMOs and trans fats. Each pack contains a generous amount of  individually-wrapped fruit gums, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family. 

Pros

• Vegetarian friendly

• Natural colors and flavors used 

• Individually wrapped for convenience 

Cons

• Contains sugar and glucose syrup 

Ingredients: glucose syrup, sugar, modified starch, gelatine, citric acid, liquorice root  extract, salmiak salt (ammonium chloride), colouring (E100, E120, E153), natural  flavouring, coconut oil, natural glazing agent (E903 – carnauba wax) 

Price per unit: $5.00 for 250g & $9.00 for 500g at Licorice Heaven. 

12. Aniseed Balls Black  

Aniseed Balls Black

Description: These Aniseed Balls are a classic black candy with a hard outer shell and a  chewy center. The candy has a strong licorice flavor that is loved by many. These Aniseed  Balls are gluten-free, which makes them perfect for people who have gluten allergies or  are gluten intolerant. 

The candy is made with high-quality ingredients and is free from any  artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The candy comes in a resealable bag that makes  it easy to store and keeps the candy fresh for longer. 

Pros

•Resealable bag for easy storage 

• Free from artificial flavors, colors, and  preservatives 

Cons

• Hard outer shell 

• Slightly expensive

Ingredients: Sugar, aniseed oil, colours (102, 132, 153), carnauba wax.

Price per unit: $6.00 per unit at The Licorice Shop

13. Aniseed Humbugs by Maxons of Sheffield, England 

Aniseed Humbugs by Maxons of Sheffield, England

Description: Aniseed Humbugs are a classic English sweet with a distinctive black and  white striped appearance. These gluten-free sweets are made by Maxons of Sheffield,  England, a company with over 100 years of experience in the confectionery industry. 

The  sweets are handcrafted using traditional methods and are made with natural colors and  flavors. The aniseed flavor is strong and refreshing, leaving a pleasant aftertaste. These  humbugs are perfect for those who enjoy traditional British sweets and for those who  prefer gluten-free options. 

Pros: 

• Handcrafted using traditional methods 

• Made with natural colors and flavors 

• Strong and refreshing aniseed flavor 

Cons

• Not nut-free, made in a facility that handles nuts

Ingredients: Sugar, Glucose Syrup, Citric Acid, Flavourings, Colours: Anthocyanins –  E133, E122 

Price per unit: $6.00  per 170g bag (per unit) at The Licorice Shop.

14. Salmiak UFOS

Salmiak UFOS

Description

The Salmiak UFOS are a unique and delicious licorice candy that is popular in Northern  Europe, especially in countries like Finland and the Netherlands. They are black, round  candies with a slightly hard exterior and a soft, chewy center. 

The candies are flavored  with salmiak salt, which gives them a distinct salty and tangy taste that is loved by many  licorice enthusiasts. 

Pros

• High-quality ingredients that are sourced from Europe. 

• Great value for money 

Cons

• Can be quite hard for some people to chew. 

Ingredients

Sugar, glucose syrup, ammonium chloride, licorice extract, modified corn starch, anti  caking agent [E470b, E553b], colour [E153], Glazing Agents [E901, E903, E904], natural  anis flavour, thickening agent [E414]. 

Price per unit: $6.00 for 190g & $15.00 for  490g at The Licorice Shop.

15. Sugar-Free Sweet Dutch Licorice Bears (Beertjes) 

Sugar-Free Sweet Dutch Licorice Bears (Beertjes)

Description

The Sugar-Free Sweet Dutch Licorice Bears, also known as Beertjes, are a delightful treat  for those who love licorice but want to avoid sugar. 

These small, bear-shaped candies  have a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth, releasing a deliciously sweet  licorice flavor. Made with real licorice root extract, these candies are a great alternative to  traditional sugar-laden licorice. 

Pros

• Sugar-free 

• Made with real licorice root extract 

Cons

• Contains maltitol, which may cause digestive issues for some people • 

Ingredients

Moltitol, Arabic gum, licorice extract, ammonium chloride, natural flavourings, vegetable oil  (coconut), glazing agent: beeswax.

Price per unit: $6.00 for 140g & $15.00  370g at The Licorice Shop.

16. Sugar-Free Dutch Licorice

Sugar-Free Dutch Licorice

Description: The Sugar-Free Dutch Licorice is a delicious treat that satisfies your cravings  for something sweet without the added sugar. 

Made in Holland with traditional methods,  this licorice is a popular choice for those who are watching their sugar intake. With its soft  and chewy texture and a strong anise flavor, this licorice is a must-try for licorice lovers. 

Pros

• Sugar-free alternative to traditional licorice 

• Made with natural colors and flavors 

Cons

• Some may find the anise flavor too strong 

• • Contains Maltitol

Ingredients: Moltilol, Arabic Gum, licorice extract, ammonium chloride, natural  flavourings, glazing agent: beeswax. 

Price per unit: $6.00 for 140g & $15.00 for 370g  at The Licorice Shop

17. Sugar-Free Salted Dutch Licorice 

Sugar-Free Salted Dutch Licorice 

Description

The Sugar-Free Salted Dutch Licorice from The Licorice Shop is a delicious treat that  packs a punch of flavor without the added sugar. Made with authentic Dutch licorice, this  product has a strong, bold taste that is perfect for licorice lovers. With a soft and chewy  texture, this licorice is easy to bite into and savor. 

The salted flavor adds a subtle kick to  the overall taste, making it a unique and tasty snack that can be enjoyed any time of the  day. The product has received positive reviews from customers, who praise its authentic  flavor and texture.

Pros

• Authentic Dutch licorice flavor 

• Sugar-free, making it a healthier alternative to traditional licorice 

Cons

• May be too salty for some people’s taste 

• Relatively expensive compared to other options

Ingredients: maltitol, arabic gum, ammonium chloride, licorice extract, natural flavour,  coconut oil, beeswax. 

Price per unit: $6.00 for 140g & $15.00 for 370g at The Licorice Shop

18. Dutch Salmiac Ships Rope Licorice 

Dutch Salmiac Ships Rope Licorice

Description: The Dutch Salmiac Ships Rope Licorice is a popular licorice candy that is  imported from the Netherlands. The licorice is shaped like a ship’s rope and has a unique  salty and sweet taste due to the addition of ammonium chloride. 

The texture is chewy and  the flavor is intense, making it a favorite among licorice enthusiasts. The licorice is made  using natural ingredients and contains no artificial colors or flavors. 

Pros

• • Made with natural ingredients 

• Fun shape – loved by kids

Cons

• High sodium content 

Ingredients: Sugar, glucose syrup, ammonium chloride, licorice powder, flavours, colour  (E153) 

Price per unit: $6.00 for 170g or $15.00 for 440g at The Licorice Shop

19. Dutch Double Salted Licorice Triangles 

Dutch Double Salted Licorice Triangles 

Description

Indulge in the unique taste of the Dutch Double Salted Licorice Triangles from The Licorice  Shop. Made using traditional Dutch methods, these chewy black triangles have a salty,  intense flavor that will leave you craving for more. 

Each piece has a strong, salty taste that  is ideal for those who love licorice with a kick. The texture is firm and chewy, which makes  it a satisfying treat for any licorice enthusiast. These licorice triangles are perfect for  sharing with friends or enjoying as a personal treat. 

Pros

• Authentic Dutch taste with double the salt for an intense flavor 

Cons

• High sodium content

Ingredients: modified potato starch, sugar, glucose syrup, ammonium chloride, cane  sugar molasses, licorice extract, coconut oil, flavouring, colour (E150c), glazing agent  (E901). 

Price per unit: $6.00 for 170g & $15.00 for 440g packs at The Licorice Shop

20. Dutch Napoleon Zwartwit 

Dutch Napoleon Zwartwit 

Description: The Dutch Napoleon Zwartwit is a classic black and white licorice candy that  is made in Holland. It has a unique flavor that is a combination of sweet and salty, and it is  perfect for anyone who loves licorice. 

This candy is made with high-quality ingredients and  is free from any artificial flavors or colors. It has a firm texture and a satisfying chew that is  sure to please any licorice lover. The candy comes in a beautiful and eye-catching  packaging that is perfect for gifting or for indulging in yourself. 

Pros

• Made with high-quality ingredients

• Beautiful packaging that is perfect for gifting 

Cons

• NA

Ingredients: Sugar, Glucose Syrup, Ammonium chloride [4.5%], licorice extract, licorice  powder, burnt sugar syrup, dextrose. 

Price: $6.00 for 170g & $15.00 for 440g packs at The Licorice Shop

21. SmartSweets Red Twists 

SmartSweets Red Twists

Description

The SmartSweets Plant-Based Low Sugar Gummy Bears Variety Pack is the perfect  alternative to traditional sugar-packed gummies. These candies have 92% less sugar than  traditional gummies and are made with high-quality, plant-based ingredients. 

The pack  includes 8 flavors – Sweet Fish, Sour Buddies, and Sour Gummy Bears – all with delicious  fruity flavors. The candies are also gluten-free, non-GMO, and free from artificial colors,  flavors, and sweeteners. Each serving contains only 3 grams of sugar and 100 calories,  making them a guilt-free snack option. 

Pros: 

• Low sugar content 

• Plant-based and made with high-quality ingredients 

• Variety pack with multiple flavors to choose from 

Cons

• Relatively expensive compared to traditional candies

• Some reviewers found the texture to be too chewy 

Ingredients

Non-GMO soluble corn fiber, Allulose, brown rice flour, Issomalto-oligosaccharides  (vegetable source), tapioca starch, Water, Natural Flavors, Coconut Oil, Sunflower lecithin, 

fruit and vegetable juice (for color), malic acid, sodium citrate, citric acid, tartaric acid,  stevia leaf extract. 

Price per serving: $23.21 for a 6-Pack on Amazon.