In the heart of Boise, Idaho, lies a sweet legacy that's been delighting chocolate lovers for over a century. The Idaho Candy Company, renowned for its whimsical and delicious creations, has made the Idaho Spud chocolate bar a staple in the world of confectionery. This unique chocolate bar, shaped like Idaho's famous potato, combines a fluffy cocoa-flavored marshmallow center with a rich dark chocolate coating and a sprinkle of coconut flakes. It's not just a treat—it's a piece of Idaho history wrapped in indulgence. Whether you're a local searching for the perfect gift or an out-of-state Idahoan craving a taste of home, the Idaho Spud chocolate bar captures the essence of nostalgia and regional pride.
A Sweet Beginning: The History of Idaho Candy Company and the Idaho Spud Chocolate Bar
The story of the Idaho Spud chocolate bar begins with the founding of the Idaho Candy Company in 1901 by Thomas "T.O." Smith, a journeyman candy maker who honed his skills in Chicago and Salt Lake City before settling in Boise. Starting small, Smith crafted chocolates in his garage and sold them door-to-door from shoeboxes. By 1909, he partnered with the Adams family to build a state-of-the-art factory at 412 South 8th Street in Boise—a location that's still in operation today, making it one of the oldest candy factories in the U.S.
Over the years, the company produced more than 50 different candy bars, including quirky names like Chicken Dinner Bar, Brazil Cremes, and Fox Trot. But in 1918, the Idaho Spud chocolate bar was born, quickly becoming the company's bestseller. Inspired by Idaho's potato heritage, this chocolate bar features a light, cocoa-infused marshmallow made with agar agar (a seaweed-derived alternative to gelatin, originally marketed as "healthful"), enrobed in dark chocolate and rolled in coconut. The potato-like shape and clever slogan, "The Candy Bar That Makes Idaho Famous," have made it an enduring icon.
Ownership evolved over time: The Adams family held stakes until 1969, followed by Don Wakeman, then John Wagers in 1984, whose son Dave ran it into the 2000s. As of 2025, the Sturdivant family owns and operates the company, blending tradition with modern expansions. One remarkable figure in the company's history is Violet Brewer, who started at age 13 in 1913 and worked for 82 years, retiring in 1995 at age 95. She passed away at 101, embodying the "sweet life" of candy making.
Today, alongside the Idaho Spud, the factory still churns out classics like the Old Faithful Bar (1925), Cherry Cocktail Bar (1926), and Owyhee Butter Toffee, plus newer additions like Huckleberry Gems (2012). The 23,000-square-foot facility uses some original early-1900s equipment, ensuring that every chocolate bar carries a touch of vintage charm.
Why the Idaho Spud Chocolate Bar is Perfect for Gifting and Nostalgia
For locals in Idaho, the Idaho Spud chocolate bar is more than just candy—it's a go-to gift for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions. Its playful potato shape and rich, satisfying flavor make it a fun and unique present that screams "Idaho pride." Available in single bars, 12-packs resembling potato cartons, or even personalized gift boxes, it's easy to share with friends and family.
But the appeal extends far beyond state lines. Those who've moved away from Idaho often order the Idaho Spud chocolate bar online to evoke memories of home. Shippers like Goldbelly and the company's own website make it simple to get this nostalgic treat delivered nationwide, turning it into a sweet reminder of Boise's charm and the Pacific Northwest's flavors. In fact, the company recently sent 120 Idaho Spud bars to the USS Idaho submarine crew in Connecticut, providing a "taste of home" for sailors far from the Gem State. Whether frozen for a cool twist or enjoyed at room temperature, this chocolate bar bridges distances and generations.
What Makes the Idaho Spud Chocolate Bar So Special?
Beyond its history, the Idaho Spud stands out in the crowded chocolate bar market for its one-of-a-kind texture and taste. The soft, airy marshmallow center pairs perfectly with the crunchy coconut and smooth dark chocolate exterior. It's gluten-free (thanks to the agar agar) and appeals to both kids and adults. Ranked among the top 100 best-selling candy bars in the Northwest, it's a regional favorite that's hard to find elsewhere, adding to its allure.
Production happens right in Boise, where the company crafts about 17 million Spud bars annually, alongside other treats like university-themed candies such as the Vandal Bar and Bronco Bites. If you're ever in town, visit the factory store for a fresh batch—it's a must for any chocolate bar enthusiast.