Discover candy that starts with Z, including Zagnut, Zero Bar, Zotz, Zebra Cakes, and more. A complete guide to classic, sour, and international Z sweets.
Candy That Starts With Z: The Complete Guide to Zesty Sweets and Treats
When you’re searching for candy that starts with Z, it may seem like options are limited. After all, Z is the final letter of the alphabet. But surprisingly, there are several classic candy bars, sour treats, nostalgic gum brands, and even international sweets that begin with this bold letter.
Let’s explore the full list of Z-named candies, from iconic American bars to fizzy Italian imports.
Classic Candy Bars Beginning With Z
Zagnut
The Zagnut bar has been around since 1930. Originally produced by the D.L. Clark Company and now made by The Hershey Company, it features:
- Peanut butter-style brittle filling
- Toasted coconut coating
- Crunchy texture
Unlike most chocolate bars, Zagnut contains no chocolate coating. It gained cult popularity after appearing in the movie Beetlejuice.
Zero Bar
The Zero Bar is one of the most recognizable candies beginning with Z. First introduced in 1920, it features:
- Caramel
- Peanut butter
- Almond nougat
- White fudge coating
Its white exterior makes it stand out compared to traditional milk chocolate bars. It is still widely available in U.S. grocery stores.
Fizzy and Sour Z Candies
Zotz
If you’re looking for something fun and explosive, Zotz is a must-try.
Developed in 1970 and still produced in Italy by G.B. Ambrosoli S.p.A., Zotz are hard candies filled with fizzy sherbet powder.
Popular flavors include:
- Cherry
- Grape
- Orange
- Watermelon
- Blue raspberry
The fizzy center creates a sweet-and-sour sensation that makes Zotz unique among classic candies.
Zours (Discontinued)
Zours were a sour variation of the popular Mike and Ike candies. They featured a sour coating and a fruity center.
Unfortunately, Zours were discontinued in 2020, but they remain nostalgic favorites among sour candy fans.

Gum and Snack Treats
Zebra Stripe Gum (Fruit Stripe)
Officially known as Fruit Stripe, Zebra Stripe Gum debuted in 1969.
It’s known for:
- Colorful zebra-striped pieces
- Sweet fruity flavors
- Temporary tattoos inside wrappers
Now produced by Ferrara Candy Company, it remains a nostalgic treat, though harder to find today.
Zebra Cakes
Made by Little Debbie, Zebra Cakes are snack cakes featuring:
- White cake layers
- Cream filling
- White icing with chocolate stripes
While technically a snack cake, they’re often grouped alongside candy due to their sweet flavor and grocery store placement.

Regional and International Z Sweets
Zitner’s Chocolates
Founded in 1922 in Philadelphia, Zitner’s is known for seasonal chocolate treats, especially Easter eggs filled with buttercream, coconut, or peanut butter.
They are particularly popular in the Northeastern United States.
Zweet
Zweet launched in 2016 with intensely sour belts and later expanded into gummies and marshmallow-style treats.
They’re known for:
- Extra-sour belts
- Creative gummy shapes
- Modern candy branding
Zefir
Zefir is a marshmallow-like confection from Russia made with fruit puree and whipped egg whites.
It has a lighter texture than traditional marshmallows and offers a unique international option for candy lovers exploring global sweets.
Other Z Treats Worth Mentioning
- Zollipops (sugar-free lollipops)
- Zachary Fruit Slices
- Zebra Popcorn
- Zee Zee Bars
Some of these blur the line between candy and snack foods, but still belong in a complete A–Z candy list.

Quick Summary Table
| Candy | Type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Zagnut | Peanut butter coconut bar | In production |
| Zero Bar | White fudge coated bar | Widely available |
| Zotz | Fizzy hard candy | In production |
| Zours | Sour chewy candy | Discontinued |
| Fruit Stripe Gum | Chewing gum | Limited availability |
| Zebra Cakes | Snack cake | Widely available |
| Zitner’s | Seasonal chocolates | Regional |
| Zefir | Russian confection | International markets |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular candy that starts with Z?
Zero Bar is the most widely recognized and widely available.
Is Zotz still made today?
Yes, it is still produced in Italy.
Why was Zours discontinued?
The brand was retired in 2020, likely due to declining sales.
Are there chocolate options that start with Z?
Yes. Zagnut, Zero Bar, and Zitner’s chocolates qualify.
Is there a Russian candy starting with Z?
Yes, Zefir is a traditional fruit-based confection.
Final Thoughts
While there aren’t dozens of options, candy that starts with Z includes a surprisingly diverse mix of nostalgic American bars, fizzy Italian treats, seasonal chocolates, and international confections.
From the crunchy coconut layers of Zagnut to the fizzy burst of Zotz, the last letter of the alphabet still delivers plenty of sweet variety.
If you’re building a full A–Z candy series, Z may be the final letter — but it’s definitely not the least interesting.