Fear’s Confections
While this candy shop has to-die-for caramels and handmade marshmallows with flavors such as cinnamon or vanilla chai, fans have been going crazy for the Cleveland-centric chocolate bars, including a Cleveland skyline bar. “We actually had them designed by a friend of mine,” says owner Cassandra Fear. “We know there are a few other places that do Cleveland-themed candies, but we wanted ours to set us apart.”
15208 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-481-0888, fearsconfections.com
Richards Maple Products
This family business, which started in 1910, may be known for its award-winning maple syrup, but it also sells tasty maple creams, candies and cotton candy. “When we first started making the candies, it was more industrial,” says vice president Jen Freeman. “White sugar was imported, so maple sugar was cheaper. We sold the maple sugar in large blocks. People would take it home, put in a barrel and cut pieces off as needed.” 545 Water St., Chardon, 800-352-4052, richardsmapleproducts.com
Sweet Bean
This husband-and-wife team uses colored cocoa butter to paint on different textures to their chocolates filled with ganache, caramel or fondant. “The warmth of the chocolate in the mold allows the painted design to melt and adhere to the surface of the chocolate,” says owner Kristin Barnes. “We often hear, ‘They’re too pretty to eat.’ But we like to assure customers that they taste even better than they look and that we’ll make more.” sweetbeancandies.com
Yum Yum Sweet Shop
More than just an adorable sweets shop in the heart of Peninsula, Sandi Saffles and
her son, Keith, are also the creators of sugar-free Yum Yum Gum. Try one of more than 101 flavors such as banana cream, buttered popcorn and cherry cola. “Brownie is our No. 1 flavor,” says Saffles. “My son is the genius that comes up with these flavors. I just want people to come in the store, have fun and laugh.” 1593 Main St., Peninsula, 330-400-2304
