The Best ’80s Snacks That Need a Comeback

The 1980s were a golden era for snack lovers, with bold flavors, inventive packaging, and a sense of whimsy that made every treat an adventure. From neon colors to crunchy textures, these snacks became icons of lunchtime and after-school fun. Their unique appeal lies in unforgettable tastes and quirky branding, creating a powerful sense of nostalgia that endures today. As new generations discover retro trends, the call for these classic snacks to return grows louder.

1. Dunkaroos

Dunkaroos were the ultimate ’80s snack, featuring crunchy cookies paired with a tub of sweet, creamy frosting for dipping. Their fun, interactive design made them a lunchbox favorite, setting the standard for today’s dipping snacks. Kids loved the playful kangaroo mascot and the excitement of dunking each cookie. Although Dunkaroos were discontinued in the early 2010s, their return in 2020 sparked a wave of nostalgia and a devoted cult following.

2. PB Crisps

PB Crisps, created by Planters, were irresistible peanut-shaped snacks filled with a smooth peanut butter center. Their unique combination of a crispy outer shell and creamy filling set them apart from today’s nut-based snacks. Fans adored the satisfying crunch and sweet, nutty flavor, making them a standout treat of the ’80s and ’90s. Despite their popularity, PB Crisps were discontinued, sparking petitions and online campaigns for their return.

3. P.B. Max

P.B. Max, created by Mars, was a decadent treat featuring layers of creamy peanut butter, crunchy oats, and rich milk chocolate. Its substantial texture and bold flavor made it a competitor to bars like Reese’s, but with a unique, hearty twist. Despite its popularity, P.B. Max mysteriously vanished from shelves in the ’90s, leaving fans to reminisce and speculate about its disappearance. The bar’s legacy continues through online nostalgia and dedicated snack enthusiasts.

4. Hostess Pudding Pies

Hostess Pudding Pies were a beloved snack, featuring a flaky, individually wrapped crust filled with rich, creamy pudding in flavors like chocolate and vanilla. Unlike today’s snack pies, their luscious filling and satisfying texture made them a standout treat for on-the-go snacking. These pies were the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence, often enjoyed as a lunchbox surprise or quick dessert. Their discontinuation left many fans longing for their return.

5. Jell-O Pudding Pops

Jell-O Pudding Pops were a delightful frozen snack that combined the creamy richness of pudding with the refreshment of a popsicle. Their smooth, velvety texture and classic chocolate and vanilla flavors set them apart from today’s icy treats. Made famous by celebrity endorsements, these pops became a household staple in the ’80s, leaving a lasting impression on those who enjoyed them. Despite their disappearance from shelves, fans continue to reminisce about their unique taste.

6. Planters Cheez Balls

Planters Cheez Balls were instantly recognizable for their neon orange hue, intense cheesy flavor, and signature blue canisters. Unlike other cheese puffs, Cheez Balls delivered an extra-crunchy bite that made them a standout in the snack aisle. Their playful shape and satisfying texture earned them a loyal following throughout the ’80s and beyond. Although they briefly returned in 2018 due to popular demand, fans continue to call for a permanent comeback.

7. Keebler Magic Middles

Keebler Magic Middles were irresistible shortbread cookies hiding a gooey chocolate or peanut butter center, creating a delightful surprise with every bite. Unlike traditional sandwich cookies, their soft exterior and molten filling delivered a unique texture and flavor experience. This unexpected twist made them a favorite among kids and adults alike. Despite their discontinuation, Magic Middles maintain a passionate fan base, with snack enthusiasts frequently discussing their return on forums.

8. Shark Bites Fruit Snacks

Shark Bites Fruit Snacks made waves in the ’80s with their chewy, shark-shaped gummies in a variety of fruity flavors. The rare white shark piece was a coveted find, adding excitement to every pack. Their vibrant packaging and playful shapes set them apart from today’s fruit snacks, making snack time a mini treasure hunt. Shark Bites became a school lunch staple and are still fondly remembered by fans.

9. O’Boisies Potato Chips

O’Boisies Potato Chips stood out in the snack world with their thick, bubbly texture and robust crunch, unlike anything offered by standard or kettle chips. The chips’ unique seasoning and hearty bite created a memorable snacking experience that quickly gained a cult following. Many fans still reminisce about their one-of-a-kind flavor and continue to request their return through online petitions and forums.

10. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Pies

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Pies were a standout treat, featuring a vibrant green glaze and creamy vanilla pudding filling. Launched as part of the TMNT craze, these pies combined snack time with pop culture excitement. Their collectible packaging and cartoon tie-in made them especially appealing, similar to other character-themed snacks that defined the ’80s. Fans fondly remember the novelty and fun of these unique desserts.

11. Squeezeits

Squeezeits were a staple in ’80s lunchboxes, offering vibrant, fruity drinks in inventive squeezable plastic bottles. The interactive packaging made drinking fun, as kids enjoyed squeezing out every last drop. Unlike today’s standard juice boxes or pouches, Squeezeits delivered a unique hands-on experience that set them apart. Their bright colors, wacky bottle shapes, and playful flavors have cemented their place in pop culture nostalgia. Fans still reminisce about these iconic beverages.

12. Giggles Cookies

Giggles Cookies were charming sandwich cookies featuring smiling faces and a sweet, creamy filling, making snack time extra cheerful. Their playful design and vibrant packaging set them apart from today’s more conventional sandwich cookies like Oreos or Golden Grahams. The whimsical appearance and delicious taste made them a lunchbox favorite before their quiet disappearance from shelves. Fans often reminisce about Giggles Cookies on nostalgia sites and hope for their return.

Conclusion

The enduring love for these classic ’80s snacks speaks to their unforgettable flavors, creative packaging, and the joyful memories they evoke. A comeback would spark delight among nostalgic fans and introduce a new generation to their charm. Today’s snack market often lacks the whimsy and boldness that made these treats so special. For a visual trip down memory lane, check out this nostalgic image collection at BuzzFeed. Here’s hoping these iconic snacks soon find their way back onto store shelves.

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