People have strong feelings about black licorice. For some, there’s nothing better than that bold, herbal flavor. For others, it is more of an acquired taste. Whether you love black licorice or you want to discover why so many people are obsessed with it, finding a truly good one is not as simple as it seems. There are a lot of options with major differences in taste and quality. Here are some of the top picks based on what reviewers like most:
Why Black Licorice Tastes So Different
Black licorice stands out among candies. It has a unique taste from real licorice root, mixed with sweeteners and sometimes extra flavorings like anise. That strong, earthy sweetness is polarizing. Some people say it tastes medicinal, others find it soothing and even crave-worthy.
Black licorice is not for everyone, but for those who appreciate its boldness, it can be almost addictive.
A lot of black licorice is actually flavored more with anise than real licorice. That is not bad, just something to be aware of if you want an authentic experience. Origin also plays a role. Finnish, Dutch, Australian, and American styles are all a bit different, from the ingredients to the texture.
What Sets the Best Black Licorice Apart?
Why do some black licorice options gather loyal followers while others fall flat? It mostly comes down to three main factors: quality of ingredients, flavor balance, and texture.
- Real licorice root extract or authentic flavoring
- Balanced sweetness - not too sugary, not bitter
- Pleasant, chewy texture (not rubbery or tough)
- No artificial aftertaste
- Minimal use of unnecessary additives
There are a few other considerations too. Some contain salt (especially Scandinavian types), some skip gluten, and some use different sweeteners for people avoiding sugar. There are options for every preference if you look closely enough. But if the candy leaves a chemical taste or feels dry and hard, most people are left disappointed.
If black licorice tastes sharp or harsh, it probably uses cheap extracts or artificial colors. Good licorice, even when bold, feels smooth and mellow in the mouth.
Texture: Soft, Chewy, or Firm?
Not all black licorice is the same when it comes to bite. Some people love it soft and almost sticky, while others want something with more bite or even a touch of crunch. Here is how most types break down:
| Type | Description |
| Finnish | Usually softer and often has a salty kick; melts easily |
| Dutch | Varies between soft and firm; sometimes contains salmiak (ammonium chloride) for a saltier taste |
| Australian | Medium-firm texture; known for its chewiness and pure licorice flavor |
| American | Tends to be sweeter and firmer; some contain more corn syrup |
Trying a few styles can pay off. Sometimes, the one that wins you over is a little different from what is most popular in your region. If you have never tried salty licorice (especially common from Nordic brands), it can be a bit of a shock at first. But some people quickly come to love the savory edge.
How to Tell if a Black Licorice Candy Uses Good Ingredients
This is something that gets overlooked, but it makes a real difference. Read labels, even for candy, to avoid surprises.
Some classic recipes mix in extra vanilla, molasses, or even salt for balance. But if the list starts to look like a science project, with lots of preservatives and color codes, it probably means cut corners.
The best licorice is simple - licorice root, sugar, a little flavor, maybe a pinch of salt.
Common Pitfalls: Why Some Black Licorice Disappoints
It is easy to grab a bag only to find it tastes stale, is too salty, or sticks to your teeth in an unpleasant way. Here are the most common complaints:
- Rock-hard or sticky texture that is hard to chew
- Overpowering artificial flavors or aftertastes
- Too much corn syrup or sugar, covering the licorice
- Dry interior or surface; feels ‘old’ even when fresh
- Faint or weak licorice taste; more bland than bold
Not every batch is the same. Even classic brands sometimes slip. If you want to avoid getting stuck with a disappointing bag, check what other users mention about consistency and freshness. Stale licorice is never good , it should be springy and smell like licorice as soon as you open a fresh bag.
Flavor Profiles You Might Notice
Once you start sampling, there are notes you will start to recognize. Some black licorice is sharply herbal; others are sweet and buttery. These subtle differences are what fans of the candy celebrate. You may notice:
- Strong, earthy flavor from licorice root
- Spicy undertones from anise, fennel, or clove
- Background molasses notes (almost smoky)
- Faint vanilla or caramel for sweetness
- Salty finish in Northern European varieties
If you find everything tastes the same, try a smaller producer. Mass-made American-style black licorice can lean very sweet with little herbal depth, while European styles sometimes swing hard towards salty or bitter.
Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose a Black Licorice That Suits You
Best for Beginners
Advanced Licorice Lovers
If you are new to black licorice, go for a sweeter option with a soft texture. Look for ‘soft eating’ licorice or those with molasses for a gentle flavor. Avoid brands with ‘salmiak’ or ammonium chloride until you know you like saltiness.
If you already love licorice and want some adventure, try Dutch or Finnish versions with extra salt, or look for single-origin licorice with less sugar and more herbal bite. Try both firm and extra-soft versions to see which texture you prefer most.
Black Licorice: Pros and Cons
- Natural herbal flavor that is hard to find in other candies
- Often made with fewer artificial colors
- Textural variety from soft to firm
- Can be gluten free or vegan depending on the recipe
- Some types offer saltiness for savory fans
- Rich cultural history
- Long shelf life for most brands
- Distinctive taste, which can be satisfying for cravings
- Very polarizing; not everyone enjoys the flavor
- Some versions are hard to find locally
- Licorice root can affect blood pressure if eaten in large amounts
- Cheap types sometimes taste artificial
- Can stick to teeth
- Some versions are higher in salt or sugar
- Gluten is present in many traditional versions
- Texture can be hit-or-miss for picky eaters
What to Ask Before Buying
Consider asking yourself or the seller these quick questions before buying black licorice, especially if you plan to share or are trying it for the first time:
- Does it use real licorice extract or mostly anise?
- How sweet is it?
- Does it have any added salt or is it very mild?
- Is the package fresh and sealed well?
- Are there any allergens (gluten, gelatin, dairy) to consider?
- What do reviews say about the texture?
FAQ About the Best Black Licorice
What makes black licorice the best?
Good black licorice uses real licorice extract, has a balanced taste (not too sweet, not too bitter), and delivers a pleasing chew. Simpler ingredient lists, good texture, and fresh scent are major pluses.
Is black licorice healthy?
In small amounts, black licorice can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. But eating too much real licorice root may affect blood pressure, so moderation is a good idea. Always check with your doctor if you have health concerns.
What is the difference between black and red licorice?
Black licorice is flavored with real licorice root and/or anise, while red licorice is usually just a fruit-flavored chewy candy with no real licorice. The taste, texture, and ingredients are quite different.
Does the origin of black licorice matter?
Yes - candy from Finland, the Netherlands, Australia, or America can all taste and feel different. If you prefer mild sweetness, stick to American or soft Australian styles. For bolder, sometimes saltier options, look for Scandinavian or Dutch imports.
Is all black licorice gluten free?
No, many traditional recipes use wheat flour for texture. Always check the label for gluten free varieties if this is important for you.
Trying a range of black licorice is worth it. What will your favorite be: Salty or sweet? Soft or chewy? The search can be half the fun.