Circus peanuts are an old banana-flavored marshmallow candy that are often dyed orange and molded into the shape of peanuts. They have a varying texture and are not safe for vegans or vegetarians.
Circus peanuts are a type of marshmallow candy. Contrary to the name, these candies have nothing to do with circuses and little to do with peanuts. Many people are aware of this candy and bringing it up for discussion is bound to escalate into a lively debate, as some people love them, while others aren’t so fond of them. Most candy stores and large markets carry circus peanuts, thanks to the number of companies that produce them.
Classically, circus peanuts are molded into the shape of peanuts, which explains the name, but they’re banana flavored and don’t actually contain peanuts. Just to add to the confusion, candies are typically dyed orange, although you can also sometimes find them in white, pink, and yellow. The bizarre appearance and contradicting taste may explain some of the reasons why many consumers struggle with this candy.
This particular type of candy is extremely old. Circus peanuts were developed during the 1800’s and are in fact one of the oldest candies to continuously remain on the market. Initially, they were only released during the spring, due to concerns about the candy’s stability during other seasons. In the 1940s, plastic packaging and refined manufacturing techniques allowed companies to start offering them to their fans year-round.
The texture of circus peanuts varies, depending on how fresh they are. Extremely fresh ones will feel a bit like marshmallows in your mouth, with a chewy note. The longer the candy has aged, the more bubbly it will become, with extremely stale chunks that resemble Styrofoam. Some people prefer the texture and flavor of fresh peanuts and will leave a bag open for several days before eating the candy to allow it to age to the proper texture.
This candy typically comes in large bags, and people sometimes see pieces lurking in candy samplers and office candy bowls. There are a number of companies that make it and they all use pretty much the same recipe. Almost all brands include gelatin, so the candies are not safe for vegans and vegetarians.
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