9 Delicious Wisconsin candy shops worth checking out

Whether you’re looking for something sweet made right here in Wisconsin or confectionary classics, there are plenty of places to choose from.

These are our readers’ favorite candy stores from around Wisconsin:

Beerntsen’s Confectionary Inc

For classic candies made by hand, head to Beerntsen’s Confectionary Inc in Manitowoc.

Established in 1932 by Joseph A. Beerntsen, this candy shop is now a third-generation family business. When you step into Beerntsen’s Confectionary Inc, you’ll likely be hit with instant nostalgia. From the candy cases to the original techniques of candy making, this business is dedicated to keeping traditions alive.

The menu has a wide variety of offerings. Whether you’re looking for a seasonal chocolate or popcorn, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, they serve lunch, dinner, and ice cream.

Here’s what our reader Hilarie R. had to say about the spot:

“I wish I could send you pictures of my students from their field trip there many years ago so you could see the beauty of their faces and as they anticipated their exquisite ice cream sundaes. (BTW, I’m originally a Two Riverite, the birthplace of the ice cream sundae.) Anyway, we had a marvelous time watching ribbon candy made from scratch.”

Chippewa Candy Shop

Looking for a delicious treat with a cup of coffee? Chippewa Candy Shop in Chippewa Falls has got you covered.

The business started in 2015, after owner Dan Sweeney and his family attended the Chippewa Falls Christmas parade, looking for a warm beverage. Sweeney explained how it’s always been a dream to own a business, and went to work creating a candy and coffee shop.

From gummy candies to chocolates and taffy, the business has a variety of products and also offers shipping.

Here’s what some of our readers had to say about about the spot:

“They have almost any candy you could ever want, let you taste the merchandise before you buy, and are the kindest & friendliest hosts you could ever hope for. My elderly father-in-law had an insatiable sweet tooth, and before his passing, we took him there for his monthly stash. He would spend in excess of $100.00 each time. They loved him & made him feel so special.” — Paula D.

“It has all sorts of kinds of candy in big jars. You can buy it by the pound. It is mostly nostalgic candy. Lots of different types of chocolates. Cute shop. Reminds me of the place I would go to when I was growing up in the 50’s.” — Arlan B.

Sugar Troll

Sugar Troll in Mt. Horeb is more than just your classic candy shop.

In the heart of downtown Mt. Horeb, this candy shop is full of nostalgia. The business offers both childhood favorites and new unique confections.

Along with the candies, Sugar Troll has gelato, fudge, taffy, and more. Plus, there are sugar-free, gluten-free, kosher, dairy-free, organic, and international candies available for purchase.

Here’s what our reader, Chara K. had to say about the spot:

“Sugar Troll in Mount Horeb for its nostalgic and vintage candy.”

Tremblay’s Sweet Shop

Looking for a whole lot of tradition packed into a candy store? Tremblay’s Sweet Shop in Hayward is perfect for you.

For more than 60 years, this candy shop has been serving delicious confections. The business started with a family fudge recipe and the catch phrase: “the sweetest place this side of heaven.”

Today, Tremblay’s still uses traditional copper pots and marble slabs to make their original candy recipes. The menu features sweet treats like fudge, hand-dipped chocolates, brittle and barks, old fashioned candies, and more.

Here’s what our reader, Jessica S. had to say about the spot:

“Hand dipped chocolates, peanut brittle, taffy are just some of the sweets. What’s special about Tremblay’s is you can watch the employees make fudge and brittle as well as hand dipping candies. Plus, free samples of fudge!!”

Wilmar Chocolates

Chocolate lovers, Wilmar Chocolates in Neenah is a spot you need to check out.

The business was founded in 1956 by Wilbur and Mary Jane Srnka and was originally called Wilmar Candies. They used original recipes for their candies with the help of their seven children.

Then, in 1990, the company changed its name to Wilmar Chocolates, and they now use both traditional and new techniques. The business originated in Appleton and has since expanded to Neenah.

The menu features a wide variety of handmade chocolates, caramels, truffles, and more.

Here’s what our reader, Susan L. had to say about the spot:

“Best chocolate ever. Only been in Neenah for a short time, but doing very well.”

Hughes’ Home Maid Chocolates Shop

For one of the most unique chocolate shops you’ll ever see, head to Hughes’ Home Maid Chocolates Shop in Oshkosh.

Nestled in the basement of a residential home, this business has been in operation since 1940. You’ll miss it if you don’t keep an eye out.

Hughes’ Home Maid Chocolates Shop sells a wide variety of chocolate flavors, ranging from Snow on the Mountain to Coconut Creams. Plus, they’re available for nationwide delivery.

Here’s what our reader, Lyn G. had to say about the business:

“One of the quirkiest candy stores you will find. They have great candy, make it in the basement of a house in a regular neighborhood. You go downstairs, where they make the candy so you will see everything that goes on. It is worth stopping by just to see their operation.”

Mayana Chocolate

Want to get a taste of some not-so-traditional chocolate flavors? Mayana Chocolate in Spooner is the perfect place.

The business was founded in 2008 by Daniel and Tamara Herskovic. Daniel spent his career as a chef in New York, San Francisco, and Chicago. Eventually, he set out to perfect chocolatiering techniques and eventually created Mayana.

Together, Daniel makes the delicious chocolates while Tamara utilizes her background in interior architecture to create the packaging and custom designs for the business.

The menu features unique chocolate flavors, including coconut lime, strawberry rose, pumpkin spice, and more.

Here’s what our reader, Amy N. had to say about the spot:

“Although we see it offered around the country (at a premium!) we especially enjoy visiting their factory. They support the annual Shell Lake Lion’s Triathlon and make a special bar available only at Bear Lake Cafe in Barronett. Good people and great chocolate!”

Confections for Any Occasion

Stop in to Confections for Any Occasion in Theresa if you’re in need of both delicious candies and a bite to eat.

Owner Joel Bernhard founded the business in 1999, after originally selling his chocolate confections to friends and family. As word spread about his delicious treats, he decided to rent a local kitchen and eventually opened his own shop downtown Theresa.

Along with delicious candies, perfect for any occasion, the business also offers a full restaurant and carries a variety of Wisconsin products.

Here’s what our reader, Lisa B. had to say about the spot:

“The store stocks just about any candy you can imagine, including many from my childhood. They offer fresh baked treats, ice cream sundaes and have a large selection of unique bottled sodas. It would be nearly impossible to list the many things you can find here. They also feature live music in the store on occasion!”

County Store of Eagle River

County Store of Eagle River is an award-winning business that is a community favorite.

Since 1964, this business has been using traditional candy making techniques with a copper kettle and marble tables. Additionally, County Store of Eagle River has won the Wisconsin State Fair Award of Excellence for multiple products.

This candy shop has something for everyone, with products ranging from salt water taffy to homestyle brittles and even buttercreme fudge.

Here’s what our reader, Julie M. had to say about the spot:

“They have the best award-winning shop-made fudge with a variety of flavors. There are also turtles, cream caramels, toasted coconut clusters, peanut butter cups, and so much more. In the back, they sell scooped ice cream with a variety of flavors and a variety of cones. I keep going back every time I am in Eagle River!!”

This Locals Love roundup first appeared in our newsletter, where we spotlight reader favorites each week. Subscribe today to catch upcoming features and share your own favorite local spots!