I remember visiting my Aunt Bea during the holidays growing up. As soon as we made it through the initial polite conversation my sisters and I would gradually ooooch over to her beautiful cut crystal candy dish. Filled with excited anticipation, we would gently lift the heavy lid off the dish. Waves of quiet glee would come over us as we saw the delights Aunt Bea had chosen to put in the dish. I can still smell and taste my favorites: the beautiful ribbon candies, glistening candy shaped into gentle ruffles, my very favorite was the green clove flavor. I also remember the pretty, shiny ruby colored pillow sticks filled with a fruity, creamy taste of raspberry.
When I passed the cheery window of my local kitchen shop — Cookin’ in Madison Park recently, I was reminded of my favorite holiday candies, candies that remind me of those I used to find in Aunt Bea’s candy jar.
In and amongst the sweet felted critters were beautifully crafted sweets from The Hammond Candy Company in Denver. Colorado.
Over the years, I have been buying Hammond’s candies at Christmas time to stock my candy jars and dishes. I love their handcrafted, old fashioned look. As they like to say at Hammond’s “we’ve been making spirits bright since 1920”.
During my professional days at Starbucks I loved my visits to the top confectionery manufacturers in the US and Europe — it was facinating to learn about the technology and process used to create all of our favorite sweets. Sadly, Hammond’s never appeared on my calendar! I am hoping to visit the factory sometime — or maybe some of our Denver readers could take a visit and write a guest post (hint-hint). I’ve noticed quite a few stores carry these wonderful confections during the holidays. You can also order directly from the company.
I love taking a trip down memory lane and enjoying the traditional bright green and red ribbons, pillows, sticks and canes from Hammonds.
I also adore all of the newer colors and flavors which will fit in to even the most contemporary decor. Here’s a small sampling of what you will find on their website, click on any of the photos to take a visit.
These handmade caramel covered marshmallows would be too fluffy to fit into most candy dishes — but I’m sure I can find a nice bowl that will be ample!
What a flash from the past!! I had an aunt who brought it for us every year at Christmas and I always anxiously awaited her arrival! I think they just might warrant a revisit online!
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