During our last visit to central Florida, we discovered the cutest candy store and factory that sells local products, which are all hand-made with local ingredients. The shop itself is lovely just to walk through and look at all the products available. Their assortment varies from citrus candy to different kinds of honeys and marmalades to citrus wines. While you are there, do not forget to taste the homemade ice-cream; a wonderful treat under the Florida sun!
It is Florida's oldest citrus candy factory and is located on Highway 27 (south of the Interstate 4) and started back in the 1920's by two friends, Ms. Blodgett and Ms. Stilman, living in the tiny town of Davenport, Florida. The two friends created a very unique candy recipe, which is now called citrus candy, while operating a small tearoom. The candies are made of 100% real fruit juices, and this adds to their delicious flavor. Before long, they opened the very first citrus candy factory right next to the tearoom.
In 1933, Mr. C.S. Taylor bought the business and started operating the factory. In the early years, Mr. Taylor produced only a few types of citrus candy. However, by 1956 the factory was producing over 80 varieties of the candies.
After her husbands death, Mrs. Taylor sold the factory to Mr. Paul Webb and his wife Nadine. Mr. & Mrs. Webb brought with them over 100 chocolate and fudge recipes, including the now famous Goat Milk Fudge.
All of their candies are made the old fashioned way - copper kettles, wooden paddles and marble slabs. The candy is all packed by hand, just as it was almost a century ago! Their specialty is Goat's Milk Fudge, a very unique treat. It is a blend of choice ingredients with goat's milk, known for its richness and flavour, into a creamy fudge that must be tasted to be fully appreciated. It is sure to please everyone!
The shop also offers candy boxes shipped and wrapped, with an enclosed greeting card, and they are guaranteed to arrive fresh and tasty. Webb's candies and chocolates are a fine and welcome gift for any occasion. It is a great idea to send to the people back home and let them enjoy a real taste of Florida!
Webb's Citrus Candy & Chocolate Factory
U.S. Highway 27 North At S.R. 547
Davenport, Florida 33837
(863) 422-1051
Webb's Candy Factory
Route 394
Mayville, NY 14757
(716) 753-2161
Please feel free to visit the factory and stores. The friendly sales staff will be happy to show you around, and show off their talents in the candy kitchen. Watch as they hand pack and wrap candy and chocolate baskets, boxes and trays. Sample some candies and chocolates too...