Twinkies Reclaiming Shelf Space
Twinkies, the golden sponge cakes with creamy filling, have made a remarkable return to store shelves over the past year. After Hostess filed for bankruptcy in 2012 and Twinkies disappeared, a wave of nostalgia and social media buzz propelled them back into production in 2013. In 2024, Hostess reported a 12% increase in Twinkies sales, driven by limited-edition flavors and collaborations with brands like Dunkin’ and Hershey’s. According to IRI retail data, Twinkies sales in the U.S. reached $150 million last year, their highest since the 1990s. The snack’s comeback is also fueled by viral TikTok challenges, with the hashtag #TwinkieChallenge garnering over 40 million views in early 2025. Fans love to share creative recipes and snack hacks, giving Twinkies a new life among Gen Z. Even bakeries have started using Twinkies in cakes and milkshakes, proving their lasting popularity.
Dunkaroos Back in Lunchboxes
Dunkaroos, the iconic cookies-and-frosting dip snack, vanished from U.S. shelves in 2012, disappointing many millennials. After years of online petitions and social media campaigns, General Mills finally relaunched Dunkaroos in 2020. In 2023, the company introduced new flavors like chocolate chip and birthday cake, spiking sales by 18% according to Nielsen. Convenience stores and big-box retailers say Dunkaroos are among their top-selling nostalgic snacks, especially during back-to-school season. YouTube influencers and nostalgic snack reviewers have helped fuel the craze, with unboxing videos and taste tests racking up millions of views. According to a recent survey by Morning Consult, 42% of adults ages 25-40 bought Dunkaroos at least once in the past year, showing their staying power with both old and new fans. The snack’s playful packaging and familiar taste are irresistible for those looking to relive childhood memories.
Cosmic Brownies: A Viral Sensation
Cosmic Brownies, with their fudgy base and rainbow candy sprinkles, have become an unexpected star on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Little Debbie, the brand behind Cosmic Brownies, reported a 15% rise in sales in 2024, citing viral baking trends and “nostalgia snacking” as primary reasons. The company’s quarterly report highlighted that 60% of their increased sales came from adults ages 28-40. Videos featuring homemade Cosmic Brownie recipes and “taste tests” have received over 30 million views since January 2024. Grocery chains have even created dedicated “nostalgia sections” in response to consumer demand for these classic snacks. Market analysts from Mintel note that retro snacks like Cosmic Brownies are driving a $1.2 billion increase in the snack cake category since 2023. Their appeal lies in both their memorable taste and the joy of rediscovering a forgotten treat.
Bagel Bites Heating Up Again
Bagel Bites, the bite-sized bagels topped with cheese and pepperoni, are enjoying a renaissance in 2025. Kraft Heinz, which owns the brand, announced that Bagel Bites sales grew 10% in the first quarter of 2025 after launching gluten-free and plant-based options. According to SPINS data, frozen snack sales overall have surged, but Bagel Bites are among the top three in terms of growth. Nostalgic commercials and a humorous social media campaign featuring the original “Pizza in the morning, pizza in the evening” jingle have helped reignite interest. Food delivery services like Instacart and DoorDash report Bagel Bites as a trending “comfort food” delivery choice, especially among those aged 30-45. The brand’s focus on quick preparation and playful branding appeals to busy parents and nostalgic adults alike. Industry experts from Food Business News note that Bagel Bites’ adaptability to new dietary trends is key to their resurgence.
Hi-C Ecto Cooler Returns for Movie Tie-Ins
Hi-C Ecto Cooler, the neon green citrus drink made famous by its tie-in with “Ghostbusters” in the 1980s and 1990s, has returned to shelves in limited runs since 2021. Coca-Cola brought back Ecto Cooler for the release of recent “Ghostbusters” films, and fans have been clamoring for more ever since. In 2023 and 2024, Ecto Cooler sold out within hours during promotional releases, with resale prices spiking on eBay and Amazon. Beverage Digest reported that Ecto Cooler’s comeback contributed to a 5% boost in Hi-C’s overall brand sales in 2024. Social media posts featuring the nostalgic green drink have amassed over 10 million impressions, according to Brandwatch analytics. Retailers like Walmart and Target have noted that special edition drinks tied to pop culture are one of the fastest-growing beverage categories. The excitement around Ecto Cooler shows the power of nostalgia and clever marketing.
Fruit Gushers Bursting with Popularity
Fruit Gushers, the chewy, juice-filled candies first introduced in 1991, have seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to viral “Gushers challenges” on TikTok and Instagram. General Mills reported in March 2025 that Gushers sales are up 20% year-over-year, with the greatest growth among adults aged 25-35. Flavor innovations like “Super Sour” and “Mystery Mix” have kept the product fresh and exciting for new generations. The candies frequently appear in “nostalgia snack boxes” sold by online retailers and subscription services, according to a 2024 report by SnackNation. A study by Statista found that 37% of U.S. adults said they purchased Gushers for themselves, not just for kids, in the past year. Social media influencers and food bloggers have highlighted creative uses for Gushers, such as topping ice cream or using them in desserts. The playful, juicy experience of eating Gushers continues to capture attention.
Handi-Snacks Cheese & Crackers: Simplicity Wins
Handi-Snacks, the classic cheese-and-crackers snack pack, is making a big comeback in lunchboxes and office break rooms. Mondelez International noted a 9% increase in Handi-Snacks sales across North America in 2024, with renewed interest from young adults seeking “retro” snacks. A Nielsen survey found that 46% of consumers cited nostalgia and simple ingredients as reasons for their purchase. The brand’s move to eliminate artificial flavors and colors in 2023 boosted its appeal among health-conscious shoppers. Social media trends like #LunchboxThrowback have showcased Handi-Snacks as a favorite childhood treat, with thousands posting photos of their homemade versions. Convenience and portion control are key selling points, especially in today’s busy lifestyles. Food historians point out that the snack’s enduring popularity lies in its straightforward, satisfying combination of flavors.
Planters Cheez Balls: Crunchy Nostalgia
Planters Cheez Balls, those neon orange, crunchy cheese puffs, have returned to stores after being discontinued in 2006. Kraft Heinz revived Cheez Balls in 2018, but it was in 2023 and 2024 that sales took off, thanks to a viral marketing campaign and special retro packaging. According to IRI, Cheez Balls sales increased by 22% in 2024, with most buyers being adults who remembered them from childhood. The brand’s “Back by Popular Demand” campaign generated millions of social media impressions, and limited-edition flavors like White Cheddar sold out quickly. Grocery stores reported that Cheez Balls were among their top-selling salty snacks during the winter holidays. Food & Wine magazine noted that the snack’s unique flavor profile and fun packaging have helped it stand out in a crowded snack market. The irresistible crunch and nostalgic taste have made Cheez Balls a must-have for retro snack lovers.
Pop-Tarts: From Toaster to Trendsetter
Pop-Tarts, the frosted toaster pastries that defined many school mornings, continue to see growing sales and cultural relevance. Kellogg’s reported in February 2025 that Pop-Tarts revenue rose 8% year-over-year, driven by new flavors like “Frosted Banana Bread” and collaborations with pop culture franchises such as Pokémon. A recent YouGov poll found that 55% of Americans aged 18-35 had purchased Pop-Tarts in the past year, often citing nostalgia as the main reason. The brand’s presence on social platforms like TikTok, where users share creative “Pop-Tarts hacks” and recipes, has contributed to over 100 million views under the hashtag #PopTarts. Grocery delivery app Instacart lists Pop-Tarts among its most-ordered breakfast snacks in 2024 and 2025. The snack’s versatility — eaten toasted, frozen, or straight from the packet — appeals to a wide range of tastes and lifestyles. Pop-Tarts’ colorful packaging and ever-evolving flavors help keep the classic snack fresh in the minds of consumers.
Ring Pops: A Sweet Fashion Statement Returns
Ring Pops, the wearable candy jewels first introduced in the late 1970s, are back in style thanks to social media and pop culture nostalgia. Bazooka Candy Brands reported a 17% increase in Ring Pop sales in 2024, with most growth coming from online sales and party packs. TikTok challenges and viral wedding proposal videos featuring Ring Pops have garnered over 25 million views in the last year. According to a 2024 report by Market Research Future, novelty candy sales are up 12%, with Ring Pops leading the category. Specialty stores and event planners say Ring Pops are now a popular addition to birthday parties, weddings, and even corporate events. Their colorful, playful design appeals to both children and adults looking for a whimsical treat. The blend of candy and playful jewelry has made Ring Pops a nostalgic icon that’s managed to stay relevant across generations.
