Did you know that the candy cane is a Swedish tradition? Amalia Erikson, a young widow who had to find a way to earn a living for herself and her infant daughter Ida, began making candy at her home in Gränna, Sweden, in 1859. The candy cane, which she called polkagris, was one of the first candies she made, made from the start with red and white stripes and a fresh peppermint flavor. The rest, as they say, is history. Ida eventually took over the family business, and today, over 160 years later, these candy canes are still made by hand in Gränna. (That's a portrait of Amalia, by the way, here on this page.)

Sweden is not all that far from Lapland, of course, where Santa Claus lives, and there is no doubt as to Santa's favorite candy. The flavor is somewhat less sweet than you might be accustomed to if all you've ever known are American candy canes. These beauties are handmade in Sweden, one at a time. Each is about 1.76 oz (50 grams) and about 6" tall x 2 1/2" wide x 3/4" thick. Individually and beautifully packaged in clear bags with sturdy paper backers by Nordic Sweets; "Handmade in Gränna, Sweden" right on the label.

These are the perfect candy canes for stocking stuffers. They also make lovely little thoughtful gifts. Imported from Sweden. Ingredients: Sugar, glucose syrup, carmine, peppermint oil.