Candy corn is a small, pyramid-shaped candy typically divided into three sections of different colors, with a waxy texture. The traditional colors of yellow, orange, and white represent the colors of the fall harvest or of corn on the cob, with the wide yellow end resembling a corn kernel. Candy corn has a reputation for generating polarizing responses, with articles referring to it as "Halloweens most contentious sweet" which people either "love" or "hate".

The actual flavor of candy corn is a blend of creamy fondant, rich marshmallow, and warm vanilla notes. When combined, these flavors create the distinct candy corn flavor. The texture is also important, and candy corn should be creamy and smooth, like biting into butter. Although candy corn is made mostly of sugar, corn syrup, artificial flavorings, various artificial colorings, and soy protein, as well as carnauba wax, presumably for texture, its flavor is more nuanced than just cloying sweetness.