You Had Me at XOXO

We’re sweet on Sweethearts.

Editors of Late Checkout

February 3, 2025

Photo credit:

It’s time we had a conversation. But this time, we’re saying it with candy.

Get excited - everyone’s favorite chalky Valentine's treat is back.

Made of our four favorite food groups: corn syrup, sugar, gelatin and food coloring, these pastel treats are one of the more divisive on our roster. But, with over eight billion hearts sold in the weeks leading up to V-day according to Smithsonian Magazine, they’re obviously doing something right.

What you might not know is that these seasonal sweets have actually been around since the 1800’s when a pharmacist inadvertently invented the first American candy-making machine. Yada, yada, yada, twenty years later his brother figured out how to stamp words directly onto the candies and conversation hearts were born. By the early 1900s, the hearts saw one-liners like "Be Mine" and "Kiss Me" - still popular today – while some other phrases like "Fax Me" or "Dig Me" have not withstood the test of time.

Today, the conversation hearts, often sold as Sweethearts, SweeTarts and Brach's, are going strong and have staked their claim as the most popular non-chocolate candy for Valentine's Day.

But if sweet and chalky isn’t your scene, here are some other ways to feel the love:

^{Every product on Late Checkout is independently selected by us. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.}

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Sweethearts x Little Words Project Conversation Hearts

You and this bracelet? Soulmates. Featuring a custom Sweethearts logo tag and four different colored resin Sweethearts beads, the Be Mine bracelet is the ultimate form of wrist candy – and the most thoughtful way to show your love.

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Hello Crush Valentine' Day Candy Heart Pouch

Share the love with this colorful Candy Heart pouch! This is the perfect gift for your bestie, an easy galentine's day party favor, or just a little treat for yourself.

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Skims Soft Lounge Short Sleep Set Cloud Candy Heart Print

Meet the ultra-soft sleep set of your (sweet) dreams. This classic button-up sleepwear top and fitted shorts have a classic look and ultra-comfortable feel.

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Alex + Ani Sweethearts® “I Luv You” Charm Necklace

It’s a statement not just for Valentine’s Day, but every day: I love you. This Sweethearts® “I Luv You” necklace says it all.

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‍Lucy Jayne’s Eww Yuck Nope Tee

Tell them what you really think in this stylish graphic tee made with super soft ring-spun combed cotton.

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OK Originals Candy Hearts iPhone Charging Cable

Add a sweet touch to a necessity. The Candy Heart iPhone charging cable from OK Originals is a classic 3-foot cord that is decorated with colorful beads shaped like candy hearts.

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