Aunt Mahalia's Candies
Aunt Mahalia’s Candies is a cherished institution in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, that has been delighting visitors with its rich, homemade confections for decades. Located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, this beloved candy shop is known for its traditional Southern sweets, made using recipes that have been passed down through generations. With its welcoming atmosphere, mouth-watering array of candies, and a deep commitment to quality, Aunt Mahalia’s Candies is more than just a candy store—it’s a Gatlinburg tradition that continues to capture the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
The History of Aunt Mahalia’s Candies
A Legacy of Southern Sweetness
Aunt Mahalia’s Candies was founded in 1939 by Mahalia Ogle, a woman with a passion for creating homemade sweets that embodied the warmth and hospitality of the South. With a strong commitment to quality and tradition, Mahalia began crafting her confections using time-honored recipes and the finest ingredients available. Her dedication to excellence quickly earned her a loyal following, and Aunt Mahalia’s Candies became a must-visit destination for anyone passing through Gatlinburg.
Over the years, the shop has remained true to Mahalia’s original vision, continuing to make candies by hand using the same recipes that have delighted generations of candy lovers. Today, Aunt Mahalia’s Candies is still family-owned and operated, and the shop’s legacy of Southern sweetness lives on in every piece of candy it produces.
A Timeless Tradition
One of the things that set Aunt Mahalia’s Candies apart is its unwavering commitment to tradition. While many candy stores have modernized their production methods or introduced trendy new products, Aunt Mahalia’s has remained focused on preserving the classic flavors and techniques that have made it a Gatlinburg icon. This dedication to tradition has helped the shop maintain its status as a beloved institution, with many visitors returning year after year to enjoy the same delicious candies they remember from their childhood.
The shop’s commitment to tradition is evident not only in its recipes but also in its old-fashioned candy-making methods. Visitors to Aunt Mahalia’s can watch as skilled candy makers create each batch of candy by hand, using traditional tools and techniques to ensure that every piece is made to perfection. This emphasis on craftsmanship and quality is what makes Aunt Mahalia’s Candies truly special.
A Sweet Selection: The Candies of Aunt Mahalia’s
Divinity: A Southern Classic
One of the signature offerings at Aunt Mahalia’s Candies is its divinity, a classic Southern confection that is beloved for its light, airy texture and sweet, melt-in-your-mouth flavor. Made using a traditional recipe that combines sugar, egg whites, and pecans, Aunt Mahalia’s divinity is a perfect example of the shop’s commitment to preserving the flavors of the past. Each batch is made by hand, with the candy makers carefully whipping the egg whites and folding in the pecans to create the perfect consistency.
The result is a candy that is both delicate and decadent, with a texture that is almost cloud-like. Aunt Mahalia’s divinity is a must-try for anyone visiting the shop, and it’s a favorite among those who appreciate the classic flavors of Southern sweets.
Fudge: Rich and Creamy
Aunt Mahalia’s Candies is also famous for its rich, creamy fudge, which is made fresh daily using the finest ingredients. The shop offers a wide variety of fudge flavors, from traditional chocolate and vanilla to more unique options like maple nut and peanut butter. Each batch of fudge is made by hand, with the candy makers carefully stirring and pouring the mixture to ensure a smooth, velvety texture.
The fudge at Aunt Mahalia’s is cut into generous squares, making it the perfect indulgence for those with a sweet tooth. Whether you prefer the classic taste of chocolate or want to try something a little more adventurous, the fudge at Aunt Mahalia’s Candies is sure to satisfy.
Pralines: A Southern Specialty
Pralines are another Southern specialty that Aunt Mahalia’s Candies does exceptionally well. These rich, buttery confections are made using a traditional recipe that combines sugar, butter, cream, and pecans to create a candy that is both crunchy and creamy. Each praline is made by hand, with the candy makers carefully pouring the mixture onto wax paper to cool and harden.
The result is a candy that is full of flavor, with the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the butter perfectly complementing the nutty taste of the pecans. Aunt Mahalia’s pralines are a true taste of the South, and they’re a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Taffy: A Nostalgic Treat
For those who love the chewy, stretchy goodness of taffy, Aunt Mahalia’s Candies offers a wide selection of flavors to choose from. Made using a traditional taffy-pulling method, the taffy at Aunt Mahalia’s is both soft and flavorful, with options ranging from classic vanilla and chocolate to fruity flavors like strawberry and watermelon. Visitors to the shop can watch as the candy makers operate the taffy-pulling machine, a mesmerizing process that adds to the charm of the experience.
Each piece of taffy is individually wrapped in wax paper, making it the perfect treat to enjoy on the go or to take home as a sweet souvenir. The taffy at Aunt Mahalia’s is a nostalgic favorite that appeals to candy lovers of all ages.
The Experience: Visiting Aunt Mahalia’s Candies
A Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere
One of the things that make Aunt Mahalia’s Candies such a special place is its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The shop is designed to evoke the charm and hospitality of the South, with its cozy interior, friendly staff, and inviting displays of candy. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with the sweet aroma of freshly made confections and the sight of rows upon rows of delicious treats.
The shop’s layout is designed to make it easy to explore, with different sections dedicated to various types of candy. Whether you’re drawn to the rich fudge, the crunchy pralines, or the chewy taffy, there’s something for everyone at Aunt Mahalia’s Candies. The shop’s friendly staff is always on hand to offer recommendations or to share the story behind the candies, adding to the overall experience.
A Perfect Souvenir
No trip to Gatlinburg is complete without taking home a sweet souvenir from Aunt Mahalia’s Candies. Whether you choose a box of divinity, a selection of fudge, or a bag of pralines, the treats from Aunt Mahalia’s offer a delicious way to remember your visit to the Smoky Mountains. The shop’s candies also make great gifts, offering a taste of Southern hospitality that you can share with friends and family.
A Must-Visit Destination
For anyone visiting Gatlinburg, a trip to Aunt Mahalia’s Candies is a must. The shop’s rich history, commitment to quality, and mouth-watering selection of candies make it a destination that’s not to be missed. Whether you’re indulging in a piece of fudge, sampling a praline, or simply enjoying the nostalgic atmosphere, Aunt Mahalia’s Candies offers an experience that’s as sweet as the candies themselves.
A Gatlinburg Tradition
Aunt Mahalia’s Candies is more than just a candy shop—it’s a Gatlinburg tradition that has been delighting visitors with its handmade confections for over 80 years. With its commitment to quality, its dedication to preserving the flavors of the past, and its warm, welcoming atmosphere, Aunt Mahalia’s Candies is a true gem in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time fan, a trip to Aunt Mahalia’s is a sweet experience that you won’t soon forget.
