The candy aisle can be a battlefield of sugary desires. Amongst the Snickers, Reese’s, and Milky Ways, sits a curious bar: the Whatchamacallit. But what happens when someone asks, “What’s the other Whatchamacallit?” Is there a secret twin lurking in the shadows, a forgotten cousin of this nutty, chewy concoction? The answer, as with most things in the confectionery world, is more nuanced than it initially appears. Let’s delve into the history, the variations, and the potential “other” Whatchamacallits that might exist in the minds of candy lovers.
The Original Whatchamacallit: A Candy Icon
First, let’s establish the baseline. The Whatchamacallit candy bar, produced by Hershey, is a unique combination of flavors and textures. It traditionally consists of a peanut-flavored crisp base, topped with a layer of caramel and peanut butter, and then covered in a thin layer of chocolate. The name itself is a stroke of marketing genius, perfectly capturing that feeling when you can’t quite recall the name of something.
Its initial release dates back to 1978. The original version was significantly different from what we know today, featuring a peanut butter-flavored crisp coated in milk chocolate. This earlier version was reportedly less successful, leading to the recipe change that cemented its place in candy history. This evolution is crucial to understanding the perception of a potential “other” Whatchamacallit.
Why the Confusion? The Evolution of a Candy Bar
The Whatchamacallit has undergone several reformulations and limited-edition variations throughout its history. These changes, though subtle, can contribute to the idea of an “other” Whatchamacallit. Someone who remembers the original bar from the late 70s might have a very different idea of what constitutes a “true” Whatchamacallit compared to someone who grew up with the modern version.
The ingredients have shifted over time. While the core components of peanut crisp, caramel, peanut butter, and chocolate have remained relatively consistent, the ratios and specific types of ingredients used have varied. This can lead to perceived differences in taste and texture, fueling the notion that there might be multiple distinct versions of the candy bar.
Limited Editions and Flavor Variations
Hershey has released limited-edition versions of the Whatchamacallit, further complicating the issue. These variations often feature different flavor combinations or additions to the standard recipe. For example, there have been versions with added pieces of other Hershey candies or unique caramel flavors. These limited-time offerings can be easily forgotten, but their fleeting presence might contribute to the memory of an “other” Whatchamacallit.
Exploring the “Other” Possibilities
So, if there isn’t a formally recognized “other” Whatchamacallit, where does this idea stem from? There are several potential explanations.
Misremembered Candy Bars
One common reason for the “other” Whatchamacallit phenomenon is simple misremembering. The candy aisle is a crowded place, and many bars share similar ingredients and flavor profiles. It’s easy to confuse the Whatchamacallit with other peanut butter and caramel-based candies, especially if one hasn’t had the bar in a while. Candy bars like the Zagnut (peanut brittle), Butterfinger, or even a Twix (caramel and cookie) might be unconsciously blended in memory, leading to a distorted recollection of the Whatchamacallit.
The power of suggestion also plays a role. If someone is asked, “Do you remember that other Whatchamacallit?”, they might be more likely to recall a similar candy bar or invent a memory to fill the void. Human memory is notoriously unreliable, and this effect is amplified when dealing with fleeting sensory experiences like taste.
Regional Candy Bars and Local Favorites
Another possibility is that the “other” Whatchamacallit refers to a regional or locally produced candy bar that resembles the Hershey’s version. Many smaller candy companies and independent confectioners create their own variations of popular candy concepts. These regional treats might be very similar to the Whatchamacallit in terms of ingredients and flavor profile, but carry a different name and branding.
These local favorites often have a dedicated following within their respective regions, and someone who grew up with one of these candies might mistakenly associate it with the Whatchamacallit brand, particularly if they later moved to a different area where the Hershey’s version is more prevalent. This misidentification can easily lead to the perception of an “other” official Whatchamacallit.
Discontinued Candy Bars: Ghosts of the Candy Aisle
The candy graveyard is filled with discontinued bars that were once popular but have since faded into obscurity. It’s possible that the “other” Whatchamacallit is a reference to one of these forgotten treats. A candy bar with a similar flavor profile that was discontinued years ago might linger in someone’s memory, becoming conflated with the Whatchamacallit over time.
Identifying these “ghosts” of the candy aisle can be challenging, as information about discontinued candy bars is often scarce. However, online candy enthusiast communities and forums are excellent resources for uncovering these forgotten treats and potentially identifying the “other” Whatchamacallit in someone’s memory.
The Psychology of Candy Memory
Our memories of candy are often intertwined with nostalgia and personal experiences. A specific candy bar might be associated with childhood memories, family traditions, or special events. These emotional connections can influence how we remember the taste and texture of a candy bar, potentially leading to inaccuracies and distortions.
Furthermore, marketing and branding play a significant role in shaping our perceptions of candy. A catchy slogan, a memorable mascot, or a distinctive packaging design can all contribute to the overall experience of consuming a candy bar and influence how we remember it later on. The Whatchamacallit’s unique name itself makes it more memorable.
Sensory Perception and Taste Memory
Taste is a complex sense that involves a combination of taste, smell, and texture. When we eat a candy bar, our brains process all of these sensory inputs simultaneously, creating a unique and memorable experience. However, taste memory is not always accurate, and it can be easily influenced by suggestion and other factors.
The phenomenon of “phantom flavors” is a well-documented example of how taste memory can be unreliable. Phantom flavors occur when someone experiences a taste sensation in the absence of any actual stimulus. This suggests that our brains can create taste memories that are not based on real experiences.
The Search Continues: What’s YOUR Other Whatchamacallit?
Ultimately, the “other” Whatchamacallit is a subjective concept that depends on individual memories and experiences. There is no definitive answer to the question, but exploring the possibilities can be a fun and nostalgic journey.
Consider what specific aspects of the “other” Whatchamacallit stand out in your memory. Was it a particular ingredient, a unique texture, or a specific flavor combination? By focusing on these details, you might be able to narrow down the possibilities and potentially identify the candy bar that you’re thinking of.
A Candy Bar Investigation: Clues and Resources
If you’re determined to uncover the mystery of the “other” Whatchamacallit, there are several resources that you can use to aid your investigation.
Online candy databases and forums are excellent places to start. These resources often contain detailed information about discontinued candy bars, regional treats, and variations on popular brands. You can also post descriptions of the “other” Whatchamacallit and ask other candy enthusiasts for their suggestions.
Social media can also be a valuable tool. Many candy companies have active social media accounts, and you can reach out to them directly with your questions. You can also use social media to connect with other candy lovers and share your memories and theories.
Embrace the Mystery
Even if you never definitively identify the “other” Whatchamacallit, the search itself can be a rewarding experience. It’s a chance to reconnect with childhood memories, explore the history of candy, and appreciate the power of nostalgia.
Perhaps the “other” Whatchamacallit is simply a figment of our imagination, a reminder that memory is a fluid and subjective process. Or maybe it’s a real candy bar waiting to be rediscovered, a hidden gem of the confectionery world. Regardless, the quest for the “other” Whatchamacallit is a testament to the enduring power of candy and its ability to evoke strong emotions and memories. The joy is often in the journey itself. The delicious journey.
The Whatchamacallit’s Enduring Appeal
Despite the confusion surrounding the “other” versions, the Whatchamacallit remains a popular and beloved candy bar. Its unique combination of textures and flavors, along with its memorable name, have helped it to stand the test of time. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the ones we can’t quite put our finger on. Its consistent re-invention is key to this continued success.
Hershey’s marketing strategy has also contributed to its enduring appeal. The company has consistently promoted the Whatchamacallit as a unique and quirky candy bar, emphasizing its unusual name and its unconventional flavor profile. This strategy has helped to create a loyal following among candy lovers who appreciate something a little different.
So, the next time someone asks you, “What’s the other Whatchamacallit?”, you can confidently respond that while there isn’t a single, definitive answer, the question itself is a testament to the enduring power of candy and its ability to evoke memories, spark conversations, and bring a little bit of sweetness into our lives. And who knows, maybe you’ll even uncover a long-lost candy bar along the way!
What exactly is the “original” Whatchamacallit candy bar?
The original Whatchamacallit, introduced by Hershey’s in 1978, was a peanut-flavored crisp covered in a layer of caramel and chocolate. It quickly gained popularity for its unique texture and flavor combination, offering a satisfying crunch alongside the sweetness of caramel and chocolate. This version defined the Whatchamacallit experience for many consumers for decades.
Its distinctive feature was the peanut-flavored crisped rice base, setting it apart from other candy bars with solid chocolate or nougat centers. The caramel layer provided a chewy contrast to the crispiness, while the outer chocolate coating tied all the flavors together. This original recipe remained largely unchanged for nearly three decades, solidifying its place in candy history.
Why is there a “mystery” surrounding the Whatchamacallit candy bar?
The mystery stems from the significant recipe change implemented by Hershey’s in 2008. The peanut-flavored crisp base and the chocolate coating were replaced with a chocolate-flavored crisp base and a thinner layer of chocolate. This altered the candy bar’s flavor profile and texture, disappointing many loyal fans of the original.
This change sparked confusion because the name “Whatchamacallit” remained the same, leading consumers to expect the familiar taste and texture they remembered. The lack of prominent marketing explaining the recipe modification further contributed to the mystery, as many people simply noticed the difference and questioned what happened to their favorite candy bar.
When did the Whatchamacallit recipe change occur?
The recipe of the Whatchamacallit candy bar was significantly altered in 2008. This marked a departure from the original peanut-flavored crisp, caramel, and chocolate combination that had been a staple since the candy bar’s introduction in 1978. The change involved substituting the peanut-flavored crisp with a chocolate-flavored crisp.
The new version also featured a more streamlined design, with a thinner layer of chocolate coating. While Hershey’s maintained the name “Whatchamacallit,” the alterations significantly impacted the taste and texture, leading to noticeable differences for consumers familiar with the original recipe. This created a clear distinction between the “original” and the newer version.
What are the key differences between the original and the current Whatchamacallit?
The most significant difference lies in the base of the candy bar. The original Whatchamacallit boasted a peanut-flavored crisp, contributing a nutty and salty undertone to the overall flavor profile. The current version, however, features a chocolate-flavored crisp, resulting in a richer, more chocolate-centric taste.
Another key difference is the type and amount of chocolate used. The original had a thicker and arguably better quality chocolate coating, while the current version has a thinner chocolate layer. This, along with the change in the crisp base, significantly alters the texture and overall experience of eating the candy bar. Many find the original version had a more balanced flavor profile, whereas the new version is perceived as sweeter and less complex.
Did Hershey’s ever acknowledge the recipe change of the Whatchamacallit?
While Hershey’s never explicitly issued a formal announcement or marketing campaign highlighting the recipe change, it can be inferred that they implicitly acknowledged it. The ingredient list and nutritional information on the packaging reflected the alterations, showcasing the shift from a peanut-flavored base to a chocolate-flavored one.
Furthermore, consumer reviews and online forums discussing the change were readily accessible, and Hershey’s likely monitored these conversations. While they didn’t directly address the change through official channels, the revised ingredient list and the prevalence of online discussion served as an implicit acknowledgement of the altered recipe.
Are there any petitions or campaigns to bring back the original Whatchamacallit?
Yes, there have been numerous online petitions and grassroots campaigns initiated by loyal fans of the original Whatchamacallit candy bar, aiming to persuade Hershey’s to revert to the original recipe. These petitions often highlight the disappointment and nostalgia associated with the changed flavor profile and texture.
The campaigns typically involve social media engagement, letter-writing initiatives, and online forums dedicated to rallying support for the cause. While these efforts haven’t yet resulted in a return to the original recipe, they demonstrate the strong connection many consumers felt to the classic Whatchamacallit and their desire for its return.
Where can I find information about the history of the Whatchamacallit candy bar?
Reliable information about the history of the Whatchamacallit candy bar can be found on various sources online, including candy history websites, food blogs, and articles from reputable news outlets that have covered the topic of candy and confectionary evolution. These sources often delve into the origins, initial reception, and subsequent changes to the candy bar.
Additionally, Hershey’s official website might offer some historical details, although information specifically comparing the original and current versions might be limited. Searching online archives and candy-related forums can also yield valuable insights and firsthand accounts from individuals who remember the original Whatchamacallit from its initial release.