Some sweets are instantly recognisable, even without their packaging. Harlekijntjes? You can spot them straight away. That little round liquorice sweet with its cheeky face catches your eye before you have even taken a bite.
Soft, sweet and full of flavour, Harlekijntjes suit those moments when you finally get to put your feet up. Put on your favourite series, set your phone aside and pour a few sweets into a bowl. Little pleasures can be wonderfully simple.
From chocolate factory to liquorice classic
The story begins in Nijkerk, in the Netherlands. In 1930, N.V. Zaanlandsche Cacaofabriek moved into a building there. Baronie took over the factory in 1953 and began producing both chocolate and liquorice.
Festivaldi B.V. was established in 2005, giving the development of Harlekijntjes as a brand fresh momentum. Katjes International acquired a 50% stake in 2010 and became the sole owner in 2016. The company has been called Harlekijntjes B.V. since 2018.
The factory's history stretches back further than the development of the brand we know today. There is quite a story behind that cheerful little face.
That soft bite deserves the spotlight
Are you a fan of soft, sweet liquorice? Then Harlekijntjes could be right up your street. Their appeal lies in the combination of a soft bite, a rich liquorice flavour and a sweet finish.
Liquorice root, molasses and natural aniseed flavouring appear on the ingredient list for the classic soft sweet variety. They fit the familiar liquorice character you are here for. No elaborate flavour puzzle: just a little sweet to savour at your own pace.
And those faces play their part too. They bring a playful touch to a bowl of liquorice, as if your favourite treat has dressed up for the occasion.
A Dutch story that crosses the border
Harlekijntjes has its roots in the Netherlands, but you can also find it at Belgian retailers. The soft sweet variety, for example, is listed in Albert Heijn's Belgian range.
Whether you live in the Netherlands or Belgium, if you enjoy soft, sweet liquorice, this is a lovely classic to discover. For some, it is a familiar favourite; for others, a first taste of a distinctly Dutch liquorice moment.
A smile with an extra story
The cheerful character goes beyond the shape of the sweet. Since 2005, Harlekijntjes has supported CliniClowns by donating part of its turnover. The organisation brings distraction and joy to children who are ill or have disabilities, and to people living with dementia.
It is a lovely connection between a brand with a playful little face and an organisation that makes room for laughter.
Make it your liquorice moment
A film night, a game with friends or a little break between things: a bowl of Harlekijntjes fits right in. Set it alongside your other favourite sweets and let everyone choose their own mix. Sweet, fruity or liquorice — you do not all have to love the same flavours.
At CandyMixMatch, you will find Harlekijntjes soft sweet liquorice. Visit the product page for current availability and pack details.
Ready for a classic with character? Make room for that cheerful little face in your sweet bowl.
