The History of Tootsie Rolls - Our Favorite Penny Candy

Apr 20th 2020

If you asked someone what their favorite “penny candy” is chances are they’re going to say “Tootsie Roll.” Yes, this bite sized chew is one of the most popular and for good reason.
The history of the Tootsie Roll dates back to 1907 when a candy maker from New York City, Leo Hirshfield, invented the chocolate-flavored chew and named it after his daughter, Clara who he affectionately called his little Tootsie.
Tootsie Rolls were the first penny candy to be individually wrapped when they hit the market commercially in 1908. More than 100 years later, Tootsie Rolls remain wildly popular with approximately 64 million pieces made per day!
That’s a lot of chews!

Tootsie Rolls are the perfect parade candy and one that is still sold by the piece at little league concession stands. You’ll also find these delightfully delicious treats in candy bowls at businesses around the world as a reminder that we’re never too old to enjoy a bit of candy.
While the original chocolate flavored Tootsie Roll remains the most popular, there are other flavors available. For those who enjoy the taste of strawberry, raspberry, cherry, grape, green apple and more, Tootsie Frooties are what you’re looking for. Frooties have the same texture as the original Tootsie and are also individually wrapped.

Besides the roll variety of Tootsie chews, there is of course the famous Tootsie Pop. The candy lollipop with the Tootsie center gained world-wide attention back in the 1970’s thanks to the popular television commercial which asked the question, “how many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop?”

If you’re looking for penny candy to stock your little league concession stand, throw at your summer parades, or keep in that candy dish at your restaurant or gym, Tootsie Rolls and Tootsie Frooties are your best choice.