The Many Names of Sponge Candy: A Sweet Mystery Unwrapped

Sponge Candy. Seafoam. Fairy Food. Cinder Toffee. Hokey Pokey.

If this list reads like an ancient spellbook or a wizard’s shopping list, don’t worry—you’re not alone. The names may be different, but they all describe the same delightful, airy, melt-in-your-mouth candy. Sponge candy goes by many names depending on where you are, and each version brings a bit of magic and mystery to this classic confection. Here, we’re breaking down the sweet story behind each name and sharing why, whatever you call it, it’s bound to disappear as fast as you can say, “Sponge Candy!”

The Classic: Sponge Candy

Let’s start with “Sponge Candy,” the name most people recognize—especially if you’re from Buffalo, NY, where this golden, crisp creation is practically a local hero. Made with whipped, caramelized sugar and coated in decadent chocolate, it’s light as a sponge and absolutely addictive. At Sweet P’s, we make our sponge candy using the finest ingredients and our signature touch of drama—because every bite should be unforgettable.

Seafoam: A Taste of the Ocean…Sort of

“Seafoam” is what you’ll hear along the West Coast, where the candy’s bubbly, airy texture is likened to the foam on ocean waves. But don’t worry—this seafoam won’t leave you salty. It’s still the sweet, caramelized treat we know and love, just with a coastal twist. Think of it as a beach vacation for your taste buds—no sunburns or sandy sandwiches required.

Fairy Food: A Treat So Good, It’s for the Fairies

Ah, “Fairy Food.” Now, we’re getting into the whimsical! This name is popular in Wisconsin, where the candy’s light, crisp texture and chocolate coating are said to be so enchanting that even fairies can’t resist it. At Sweet P’s, we totally get it—one bite, and you’ll be believing in magic too. Pro tip: if you leave some out for the fairies, make sure to stash a few pieces for yourself first, just in case they “disappear.”

Cinder Toffee: Straight from the Hearth

Across the pond in the UK, sponge candy is known as “Cinder Toffee.” Here, the burnt-sugar notes of the candy remind Brits of smoldering embers, hence the name “cinder.” It sounds intense, but it’s a flavor packed with depth and crunch. Imagine something as dramatic as a Shakespearean monologue, but in candy form. It’s bold, delicious, and, much like Hamlet, it never goes out of style.

Hokey Pokey: Not Just a Dance!

Down in New Zealand, it’s called “Hokey Pokey.” This one’s as fun to say as it is to eat! Some say the name comes from the strange “hokey pokey” process of heating sugar to get that perfect honeycomb texture. Whatever the story, Hokey Pokey has become a beloved Kiwi favorite. It’s proof that sponge candy, by any other name, would taste just as sweet!

So, What’s in a Name?

Whether you call it Sponge Candy, Seafoam, Fairy Food, Cinder Toffee, or Hokey Pokey, one thing’s for sure—this candy has a fan base as wide as its name list. Each name offers a unique twist on the same magical treat, making sponge candy a truly global delight.

At Sweet P’s, we like to think of our sponge candy as a little piece of edible nostalgia, wrapped up in creamy chocolate. It's perfect for sharing, gifting, or hoarding—no judgment here. And while you could spend all day debating which name is best, we suggest simply taking a bite. After all, the only thing that really matters is the crunch and melt of that first delicious taste.

Ready to Try the World’s Most Mysterious Candy? Grab a Bag of Sponge Candy at Sweet P’s and Get Your Crunch On!