Who says salads need to be dull or filled with veggies? Not this one! Say goodbye to greens and hello to a tangy, colorful twist. Meet the ultimate sour candy salad, perfect for Valentine’s Day! This post may contain affiliate links.

This isn’t your standard salad. It’s a sweet-and-sour mix packed with your favorite candies. Great for kids’ parties, holiday get-togethers, or any time you’re craving something unique. This fun creation proves salads can be anything but boring.

Why You'll Love It

Candy salad isn’t just dessert, it’s a whole vibe. It’s playful, colorful, customizable, and absolutely bursting with sweet possibilities. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, organizing a themed event, or just treating yourself, candy salad offers something special for everyone.

• It's Totally Customizable: You get to play dessert chef and create a mix that speaks to you. Are you a chocolate lover? Toss in mini peanut butter cups, chocolate-covered candies, or even bite-sized brownie pieces. Prefer something fruity and tangy? Pile in gummy bears, sour strips, or hard candies. There’s no fixed recipe.
• A Feast for the Eyes: Candy salad isn’t just tasty, it’s Instagram-worthy. The vibrant colors pop like confetti, making it the centerpiece of any table.
• Perfect for Sharing: It’s inviting. Everyone can grab a handful and enjoy their favorites.
• Kid-Friendly and Adult-Approved: Candy salad hits the sweet spot for all ages.

Ingredients

• Sour Patch Hearts
• Valentine’s Nerd Clusters
• Jolly Ranchers Jelly Hearts
• Sweethearts Candy Originals
• Haribo Sweet and Sour Gummy Candy
• Haribo Berry Hearts
• Starburst Pink Gummy Candy
• Sour Punch Cupid Straws
• Cherry Hearts
• Valentine Bags or Containers of your choice
• Printable Gift Tag (pdf) - 4 per page, download

How to Make Candy Salad

• Fill a bag or container for each guest with your favorite sour candies.
• Print gift tags and back them with construction paper in any color you like.
• Attach the gift tags to the bags using ribbon or string.

Tips for Making Candy Salad

• Add as much or as little of your favorite candies as you like. We love Nerd Clusters and Sour Patch, so we always include extra!
• Use red, pink, and heart-shaped sour candies for a fun Valentine’s Day look. Holiday candy packs are perfect for this.
• Sprinkle edible glitter or shimmer dust on top for a magical finish.
• Cut sour gummy belts into heart shapes with small cookie cutters for a personal touch.
• Serve in a clear trifle dish or glass bowl to show off the colorful layers.
• Try mixing in popcorn, pretzels, or marshmallows for added texture.

Need a cute tag for candy bags? Print one out below!

How to Store Leftover Candy Salad

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Skip the fridge to avoid stickiness.

FAQs

More Valentine Recipes

• How to Make a Stunning Valentine Brunch Board
• Adorable Valentine Strawberries That Will Steal Your Heart
• Creative Valentine's Heart Shaped Candy Board Story
• Surprise Your Sweetie With a Charcuterie Bouquet this Valentine's Day