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The Definitive Ranking Of Jelly Bean Flavors

What's your flavor?

Headshot of Megan ShepherdBy Megan Shepherd
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From best-of lists to 'wouldn't touch it with a ten-foot pole' round-ups, lots of people have strong feelings about which candies are binge-worthy, and which are not. Jelly Beans, in particular, tend to be pretty divisive among the ranks of the candy crazed. Thankfully, we did the legwork for you. Here's your definitive guide to the best jelly beans out there.

16. Cherry

These are a little on the boring side, but heck, there's something to be said for old reliable.

15. Sizzling Cinnamon

Fireball fans probably grew up loving this sizzling flavor, which has just the right amount of kick.

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14. Beer

Tastes just like the cold, frothy brews you kick back in the summertime. Cheers!

13. Juicy Pear

The black horse of the competition, Juicy Pear is a fan favorite across the country — probably thanks to its curiously mild (but addictive) flavor.

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12. Tutti Frutti

Tutti Frutti's flavor is hard to pin down. Personally, I think it's best described as a fruit punch snow cone with gummy bears tossed in. Mmmmmmm. 

11. Pancakes & Maple Syrup

Save yourself the calories of a slathered stack of hot cakes and pop a few jellies instead! They taste just like the real thing.

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10. Root Beer

The OG of unique Jelly Belly flavors, Root Beer was one of the first Jelly Belly flavors introduced to the world. Bust out this bean whenever you want a taste of nostalgia. 

9. Bubblegum

Perfect for people who love the taste of bubblegum but hate the idea of chewing the same piece of food for 30 minutes.

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8. Booger

This is as close as we will ever get to popping a pack of Bertie Bott's Every-Flavor Beans on our way to Hogwarts. It's not the flavor we're into; it's living the Gryffindor-robed dream.

7. Cotton Candy

Cute! Fun! Delicious! What more could you want from a jelly bean? The ultra sweetness of these beans means you only need a few to curb a sugar craving ... which means they're basically diet food (right? Uh, right.).

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6. Watermelon

A classic flavor, the watermelon beans are sweet with just the right amount of tang. Pretty much a backyard picnic in your mouth.

5. Toasted Marshmallow

I want to know why this flavor isn't higher on more lists. Are we in a flavor rut? Are we afraid of trying new things? Toasted Marshmallow is where it's at, end of story, period.

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4. A&W Cream Soda

Creamy, fizzy, and vanilla-y, these beans will take you back to childhood.

3. Black Licorice

One of the original Jelly Belly releases, black licorice has been at the top of fans' lists since 1976.

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2. Green Apple

There's hard evidence that green apple fans are a loyal bunch. From Caramel Apple Pops to Green Apple Jolly Ranchers, the green apple flavor consistently ranks toward the top of best-of lists, and jellies are no exception. 

1. Buttered Popcorn

Buttered popcorn is the favored flavor of at least seven states across the US, according to this study. It's a godsend for braces-wearing, popcorn-loving people (finally: a safe way to enjoy your favorite snack!), and is by far one of the most unique jelly bean flavors around. Pop a few to get a taste of Jelly Belly's finest. 

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