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21 BEST Gluten-Free Licorice for 2023
research-based
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.)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
