Forgotten Indiana Snacks Only True Locals Remember

Growing up in Indiana meant more than just basketball and cornfields. I remember the unique snacks that filled corner stores and kitchen cabinets across the Hoosier state.

Many of these treats have vanished from shelves, but they still hold a special place in the hearts of locals who grew up munching on them.

Grippo’s BBQ Potato Chips

Crunchy, tangy, and absolutely addictive – that’s how I’d describe these chips that bordered Indiana and Ohio. Grippo’s had a barbecue flavor unlike anything you could find in national brands.

The seasoning stuck to your fingers in the best way possible. Corner stores near the Ohio River always stocked these golden treasures. I can still taste that vinegary kick that made my mouth water instantly.

Sanders Hot Fudge Cream Puffs

Imagine biting into a chocolate shell that gives way to marshmallow fluff and hot fudge. Sanders created this magical combination that Indiana kids begged their parents to buy at checkout counters.

The texture was something special – soft, gooey, and messy in all the right ways. I remember the wrapper getting sticky in summer heat. Finding one of these now feels like discovering buried treasure.

Mikesell’s Puffcorn Delites

Light as air and impossibly addictive, these puffy corn snacks melted on your tongue before you could even chew. Mikesell’s distributed heavily throughout Indiana, making them a staple at birthday parties and sleepovers.

I could polish off an entire bag without realizing it. The butter flavor was rich but not greasy. They left less mess than popcorn, which made them perfect for eating during Saturday morning cartoons.

Clark Bar

Before Butterfinger dominated candy aisles, Clark Bars were the crispy peanut butter treat everyone wanted. The flaky layers inside created a texture that was completely unique and utterly satisfying.

I loved how the chocolate coating cracked when you bit down. These were everywhere in Indiana vending machines during the 80s and 90s. The company changed hands several times, and they became harder to find with each passing year.

Chesty Potato Chips

Local chip makers like Chesty competed with national brands by offering fresher products and unique flavors. Their chips had that homemade quality you just couldn’t get from mass-produced bags.

The crunch was louder, the potato taste more genuine. Small groceries and mom-and-pop stores carried them throughout central Indiana. When they closed their doors, a piece of Hoosier snacking history disappeared forever.

Schokolad Chocolate Bars

German immigrants brought their chocolate-making traditions to Indiana, creating Schokolad bars with authentic European recipes. The chocolate was darker and less sweet than American brands, with a sophisticated flavor profile.

I felt fancy eating these as a kid, like I was tasting something from another world. They came in simple brown wrappers without flashy graphics. Finding them required knowing which old-fashioned candy shops still carried them.

Albanese Gummy Bears

Albanese Gummy Bears are renowned for their vibrant colors and intensely fruity flavors. These delightful treats have been made in Indiana for decades, becoming a beloved snack for children and adults alike. Their soft texture and tangy taste make them irresistible.

Crafted with care, these gummies often evoke memories of visiting the local candy store. The bears come in various flavors, each delivering a burst of sweetness. Made with high-quality ingredients, they remain a staple in Hoosier homes.

The Albanese Candy Factory, located in Merrillville, offers tours where visitors can watch these delightful bears come to life.

Sechler’s Pickles

Sechler’s Pickles have been a crunchy, tangy delight for generations. Born in St. Joe, Indiana, these pickles are more than just a side dish – they’re a cherished tradition. Each jar is packed with flavors that range from sweet to spicy.

The company prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients, ensuring every bite is crisp and flavorful. Families often speak of the joy of opening a new jar filled with these hand-packed pickles.

Sechler’s offers a variety of products, including relish and specialty mixes, all testament to their enduring legacy in Indiana cuisine.

Rise’n Roll Cinnamon Caramel Donuts

Rise’n Roll Cinnamon Caramel Donuts are a symphony of flavors that dance on the taste buds. Originating from a small Amish bakery in Middlebury, these donuts are famous for their soft, pillowy texture.

The caramel topping paired with a dusting of cinnamon creates a heavenly experience with every bite. Known as the “Amish Crack,” these donuts have a devoted following, with people lining up early to grab a fresh batch.

Their unique recipe remains a closely guarded secret, adding an air of mystery to this delectable treat. A must-try for anyone visiting the area.

Red Bird Peppermint Puffs

Soft, melt-in-your-mouth peppermint candies that grandparents kept in crystal dishes on coffee tables. Red Bird made these in the Midwest, and they had a gentler mint flavor than hard candies.

The texture was almost chalky but pleasant, dissolving slowly on your tongue. I associated them with Sunday visits and old-fashioned parlors. They came individually wrapped in red and white striped cellophane that crinkled when you opened them.

Zapp’s Cajun Crawtators

Okay, these originated in Louisiana, but they found a cult following in southern Indiana near the Ohio River. The spicy crawfish seasoning was unlike anything else available in Midwest stores back then.

My friends and I would dare each other to eat entire bags. The heat built slowly, and the flavor was complex and addictive. When distribution changed, they vanished from Indiana shelves almost overnight.