Candy hearts, also known as conversation hearts, are a popular treat around Valentine’s Day. These sweet, colorful candies come with cute little sayings like “Be Mine” or “Love You,” making them a festive favorite for both giving and eating. But if you’re planning to buy a bag (or several) for your Valentine’s Day celebrations, you might be wondering: How many candy hearts are actually in a bag? Let’s break it down!
1. Standard Bag Size
The number of candy hearts in a bag can vary depending on the size of the bag you’re buying. The most common packaging for candy hearts is the small bag or standard-sized bag, which typically weighs around 3 to 5 ounces.
For a standard 3-ounce bag, you can expect around 60 to 75 candy hearts inside. This can change depending on the brand, the shape, and the size of the hearts. Larger bags, often found in family packs or bulk packaging, can contain anywhere from 200 to 400 candy hearts or more, depending on the weight of the bag.
2. Factors That Affect the Number of Candy Hearts in a Bag
There are a few factors that affect how many candy hearts you’ll find in a single bag:
- Candy Size: Some candy hearts are slightly larger or smaller than others, which can affect how many fit in a given weight of candy. If the hearts are bigger, fewer will fit in a bag.
- Brand Differences: Different brands may use slightly different molds, recipes, and bag sizes. For example, the classic Sweethearts brand candy hearts might have a different count per bag compared to a store-brand version.
- Packaging Type: Pre-packaged bags of candy hearts often come in different quantities. Some might have smaller bags that hold fewer hearts, while others, particularly during the Valentine’s Day season, may offer larger bags designed for parties or large celebrations.
3. Large or Bulk Bags
For parties, classrooms, or if you just love candy hearts, larger bags are available. These bags can range from 12 ounces to 5 pounds in weight, and some can even be bought in bulk (like at warehouse stores such as Costco or Sam’s Club).
- A 12-ounce bag might contain around 200 to 250 candy hearts, while a 5-pound bulk bag could contain about 1,500 to 2,000 candy hearts! If you’re planning a big Valentine’s Day event or just have a lot of people to impress, a bulk-sized bag is a great option.
4. Counting and Serving Size
If you’re trying to figure out how many candy hearts to buy for a specific purpose (like filling a Valentine’s Day basket or party favors), the amount you’ll need depends on how many people you’re serving.
- Individual Serving: For each person, if you plan on offering candy hearts as a small treat, about 10 to 15 hearts per serving is usually enough to satisfy a sweet tooth without overdoing it.
- Party Favors: If you’re creating party bags or handouts, you can include anywhere from 30 to 50 candy hearts in each bag for a nice, generous portion. This also gives people a fun variety of sayings to read as they enjoy the treat!
5. Fun Facts About Candy Hearts
- Sweethearts, the original conversation hearts, have been around since 1866 and are considered a classic Valentine’s Day candy. The candy hearts were originally called “Necco Hearts” after the New England Confectionery Company, which first produced them.
- Each candy heart typically has a short phrase or word stamped on it, such as “Kiss Me,” “XOXO,” or “Be Mine.” These sayings make the candy not only a treat but also a fun way to share messages with loved ones.
- The phrase “Be Mine” has become one of the most iconic phrases ever featured on candy hearts and is synonymous with the Valentine’s Day holiday.
Conclusion
The number of candy hearts in a bag depends largely on the size of the package you buy. For a standard 3-ounce bag, you can expect around 60 to 75 hearts, but larger bags can contain hundreds or even thousands of candy hearts, perfect for large parties or gifting. Whether you’re using them to fill up a Valentine’s Day basket, creating party favors, or simply snacking on them while enjoying a rom-com, candy hearts are a fun and festive treat that adds a little extra sweetness to your day.