15 Iconic ’80s Snacks You’ll Love Rediscovering

The ’80s were a special time, especially when it came to snacks. Back then, the shelves were stocked with treats that brought pure joy to every lunchbox and after-school hangout. Whether you were reaching for something cheesy, sweet, or a fizzy drink, there was always something exciting to munch on. Fast forward to today, and some of these beloved snacks are long gone, while others have stood the test of time. It’s always fun to look back and remember those classic ’80s snacks that had such a big impact on our childhoods.

Doritos Cool Ranch

Introduced in the mid-1980s, Cool Ranch Doritos quickly became a favorite. Known for their tangy, zesty seasoning, they offered a new twist on the classic nacho cheese flavor. The innovative flavoring combined spices and herbs with a cooling ranch element. Fans of Cool Ranch still love how the chips deliver a burst of flavor with every bite. This snack has remained a staple in supermarkets, with many variations introduced over the years. Cool Ranch Doritos were more than a snack; they were a revolution in the chip industry.

Capri Sun

Capri Sun made waves in the ’80s with its unique foil pouch packaging. This drink came in a variety of flavors, but the standout was always the tropical fruit punch. The pouch design was both novel and convenient, especially for kids who could enjoy a quick sip on the go. Its straw-in-the-pouch design became a hallmark of ’80s lunchboxes everywhere. Today, Capri Sun remains popular but is forever nostalgic for those who grew up in the ’80s. Its combination of fun packaging and fruity flavors left a lasting impression.

Hostess Pudding Pies

Hostess Pudding Pies were the ultimate indulgence for a sweet tooth in the 1980s. Filled with rich, creamy pudding and encased in a flaky, golden crust, they were available in a variety of flavors like chocolate and vanilla. These handheld pies were a convenient and satisfying snack, often found in school lunchboxes or after-school treats. While they were discontinued, their legacy endures among those who remember the creamy goodness. The Hostess brand still exists, but many long for the return of their pudding pies.

Ecto Cooler (Hi-C)

Ecto Cooler was a drink with a pop-culture twist, tied to the hit movie Ghostbusters. Introduced in 1987, it had a vibrant green color and a sweet citrus taste, making it highly appealing to kids. The drink was marketed with Slimer, the ghost from Ghostbusters, which added to its iconic status. It was a staple at birthday parties and school lunches. Even after its discontinuation, Ecto Cooler remains a nostalgic item for ’80s kids, who often hope for its return. It was briefly re-released, adding to its mystique.

Fruit Roll-Ups

Launched in 1983, Fruit Roll-Ups were an instant hit due to their bright colors and fun shapes. This chewy fruit snack was a favorite of kids everywhere, and part of its appeal was how it could be stretched and shaped into different forms. Often packed in lunches, they were not only tasty but interactive, allowing for creative eating. Over the years, more flavors and designs were introduced, making them even more enticing. Fruit Roll-Ups remain a staple in the snack aisles, but for ’80s kids, the original flavors were unmatched.

Push Pops

Push Pops were a unique and fun candy experience that defined the 1980s. With their push-up design, kids could easily savor the sweet treat at their own pace, making it last longer. Available in a variety of fruity flavors, this lollipop on a stick allowed for portability and fun. The design, where you could save some for later, appealed to children, and the catchy marketing reinforced its playful nature. Even today, Push Pops are available, but the nostalgia for their early years is still strong.

Bagel Bites

Bagel Bites, introduced in 1985, were a game-changer in the frozen snack world. They combined two beloved foods: bagels and pizza, creating a quick and easy snack that could be heated up in minutes. With toppings like cheese, pepperoni, and sausage, they were ideal for after-school snacks or small meals. Their catchy jingle, “Pizza in the morning, pizza in the evening, pizza at suppertime,” became an earworm for ’80s kids. Bagel Bites are still available today, but their golden era remains in the hearts of those who first experienced them.

Jell-O Pudding Pops

Jell-O Pudding Pops were a creamy frozen treat that made waves in the ’80s. Advertised by Bill Cosby, they became an iconic part of childhood summers. Available in flavors like chocolate and vanilla, they were a frozen version of Jell-O’s beloved pudding. The smooth texture and rich flavor made them an indulgent and refreshing treat. Though they were discontinued, their fans still fondly remember the creamy goodness that set them apart from other frozen snacks of the era.

Squeezits

Squeezits were another popular ’80s drink, designed for kids who loved convenience and fun. The bright plastic bottle, which could be squeezed to dispense the sugary drink, was a favorite in school lunches. Available in a range of fruity flavors, Squeezits also offered mystery flavors and special color-changing varieties, which added to their excitement. While they disappeared in the late ’90s, their quirky design and bold flavors make them a nostalgic treasure for many. Their distinct bottle shape is still remembered fondly.

Pop Rocks

Pop Rocks were the candy that sparked excitement—literally. These fizzy, popping candies hit the market in the late ’70s but became a full-blown sensation in the 1980s. The candy would “explode” in your mouth with a crackling sensation, making it both a treat and an experience. Available in various flavors, the novelty of Pop Rocks ensured they stayed in the spotlight. Rumors of their dangers, including the urban legend about mixing them with soda, only added to their popularity. Today, Pop Rocks are still available, but their heyday was the ’80s.

Dunkaroos

Dunkaroos hit their stride in the late ’80s and were the ultimate combination of cookies and frosting. Packaged with small cookies and a compartment filled with sweet frosting, they offered the perfect mix of crunch and sweetness. Kids loved the interactive nature of dunking their cookies, which made snack time more fun. Available in flavors like chocolate and vanilla, Dunkaroos were an instant hit. Though discontinued for some time, they have been re-released, much to the delight of nostalgic fans.

Big League Chew

Big League Chew was a bubble gum designed to mimic the experience of chewing tobacco, but for kids. Introduced in the early ’80s, it came in a pouch with shredded gum that looked like tobacco leaves, allowing kids to feel like pro baseball players. The gum was incredibly stretchy and came in various flavors like grape and original. The novelty and flavor made it a staple for Little League games and playgrounds across the country. It’s still available today, keeping the ’80s legacy alive.

Keebler Magic Middles

Keebler Magic Middles were a deliciously surprising cookie introduced in the ’80s. On the outside, they looked like an ordinary shortbread cookie, but the inside was filled with gooey, chocolate or peanut butter filling. This unexpected burst of sweetness made them a popular choice among snackers. Unfortunately, they were discontinued, leaving fans clamoring for their return. Many online petitions have been started to bring back Magic Middles, showcasing their impact during their brief time on store shelves.

16. Planters Cheez Balls

Planters Cheez Balls were one of the quintessential cheesy snacks of the ’80s. Packaged in a distinctive blue canister, these crunchy, cheesy spheres delivered a bold flavor in every bite. They were the perfect snack for parties or after-school munching. The bright orange color and intense cheese flavor made them memorable, and despite being discontinued, they were briefly brought back due to popular demand. Planters Cheez Balls are a classic example of how a simple snack can leave a lasting legacy.

Whistle Pops

Whistle Pops were a playful candy that combined sweets with sound. The candy stick had a hole in the middle, allowing kids to blow through it and produce a whistle sound. It was available in various fruity flavors, but the main attraction was the ability to whistle while enjoying the candy. This dual-purpose treat was a favorite at birthday parties and events. Though no longer as widely available, Whistle Pops are fondly remembered as one of the most entertaining candies of the decade.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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