This Is the 'Best Candy Hands Down' According To Fans—Including Jason Kelce

As a food writer, I am constantly trying new products and hearing about new innovations. So, sometimes I forget that not everyone knows about some of the fantastic products out there, which means it’s my job to educate the masses on the best things I try at work. That includes the all-time best Cheez-It (White Cheddar Grooves), the best chocolate bar (Reese’s Take 5), and the best candy: Nerds Gummy Clusters.

Nerds Gummy Clusters—which are poppable mini treats made with Nerds that encase a fruity, gummy center—are nothing new. In fact, the crunchy-chewy candy launched in 2020, and have become increasingly popular ever since. 

In 2022, Nerds Gummy Clusters were named Product of the Year’s most innovative product in the sugar confections category. However, despite the awards, it's come to my attention that some people still might not know about Nerds Gummy Clusters, or the newer flavor, Very Berry, at all. 

But there’s a reason fans call it the “best candy, hands down”—including the Kelce brothers.

What Are Nerds Gummy Clusters?

First of all, what exactly are Nerds Gummy Clusters? They’re essentially bite-sized versions of the ever-popular Nerds Rope. The Nerds Rope, which has been around since 2001, is known for its licorice-like interior that’s coated with rainbow Nerds. People love the Nerds Rope for its great mix of textures, with chewy gummy and crunchy Nerds.

All in all, Nerds Gummy Clusters are basically a chopped-up Nerds Rope, but with (dare I say) a better Nerds-to-gummy ratio. Don’t believe me? Jason and Travis Kelce taste-tested the candy on their podcast, “New Heights,” and had nothing to say but rave reviews.

“This looks like something out of Willy Wonka,” said Jason, the recently-retired Philadelphia Eagles center. 

“Those things are f***ing bomb,” said Travis, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end. “It’s not too much of anything, just enough—they’ve got it figured out.”

“These are dangerous; I could eat this whole bag,” added Jason.

Jason even introduced his Australian teammate, Jordan Mailata, to Nerds Gummy Clusters on another episode of “New Heights.” While Mailata was showing off his favorite Australian candy, Jason asked the tackle, “Have you ever had a Nerd Cluster?”

“They look terrible,” Mailata responded before trying one. “They’re actually really good, I’m sorry I judged,” he said, as Jason laughed.

“That’s one for America,” Travis responded. 

You can find Nerds Gummy Clusters in multiple bags and sizes at most retailers nationwide. After the brand’s 2024 Super Bowl commercial, it’s clear that Nerds Gummy Clusters has cemented itself as a best-seller for the Nerds brand. 

So, here’s hoping we get more flavors soon, but, for now, someone get Jason Kelce a box full of this candy; he deserves it after that tearful retirement speech. You know what, we all do, too—it will help dry our eyes and put a smile on our faces.