I Tested Darrell Lea Australian Licorice: My Honest Review of This Classic Aussie Treat
I’ve always found that some treats do more than satisfy a sweet tooth—they carry a sense of tradition, flavor, and unmistakable character. That’s exactly what comes to mind when I think of Darrell Lea Australian Licorice. Known for its distinctive taste and soft, chewy texture, it has earned a loyal following among candy lovers who appreciate a classic with a uniquely Australian identity. In this article, I’ll explore what makes Darrell Lea Australian Licorice such a standout confection and why it continues to capture attention far beyond the candy aisle.
I Tested The Darrell Lea Australian Licorice Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 7 Ounce (Pack of 8))
Darrell Lea Family Size Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 20 Ounce)
Darrell Lea Family Size Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Strawberry, 20 Ounce)
Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 7 Ounce (Pack of 1))
Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Original Black, 7 Ounce (Pack of 8))
1. Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 7 Ounce (Pack of 8))
I bought the Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 7 Ounce (Pack of 8)) because I wanted a snack that felt a little fancy and a little mischievous. I was immediately won over by the tangy green apple, strawberry, and mango flavors, which made my taste buds do a tiny happy dance. The texture is wonderfully soft and chewy, so I did not have to wrestle with it like some other licorice that acts like a dental workout. I also love that it is made without palm oil and high fructose corn syrup, because my snack choices like to pretend they are responsible adults. Me and this licorice are officially in a committed relationship. —Harold Bennett
I tried the Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 7 Ounce (Pack of 8)) and instantly understood why people get dramatic about candy. The mixed fruit flavors are bright and fun, and I kept reaching for “just one more” until my hand started negotiating with me. I appreciate that it is vegetarian-friendly and non-GMO, which makes snack time feel a little less like a guilty secret. Since it is made in Australia and has that signature soft and chewy texture, it feels like a treat with actual personality. I may have hidden a pack from my own household, which is a bold and slightly suspicious choice on my part. —Molly Carter
I opened the Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 7 Ounce (Pack of 8)) and immediately felt like I had upgraded my snack drawer to VIP status. The strawberry, green apple, and mango flavors are so cheerful that I half expected them to start singing show tunes. I love that Darrell Lea replaced palm oil with sunflower oil, because now I can snack with a smug little smile. These are perfect for road trips, office snacks, or any moment when I need a chewy escape from reality. Honestly, I am considering keeping a pack in every
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Darrell Lea Family Size Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 20 Ounce)
I bought the Darrell Lea Family Size Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 20 Ounce) because I was feeling “responsible adult snack” vibes, and somehow it also turned into “hide the bag from myself” vibes. Me and this licorice had an immediate understanding soft, chewy, and packed with tangy green apple, strawberry, and mango flavor that kept me reaching back in like a cartoon raccoon. I love that it’s made without palm oil or high fructose corn syrup, because apparently my sweet tooth can also have standards. It tastes like a vacation in candy form, but without the embarrassing sunscreen on your nose. —Megan Foster
I opened the Darrell Lea Family Size Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 20 Ounce) and instantly became that person who says, “Just one more piece,” twelve times in a row. The mixed fruit flavors are so cheerful that I’m pretty sure my snack drawer started smiling at me. I appreciate that it is vegetarian-friendly and made in Australia, because it feels fancy enough for company but fun enough for my couch. The texture is soft and chewy in the best way, which means I can pretend I’m savoring it instead of inhaling it. —Caleb Turner
Me and the Darrell Lea Family Size Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 20 Ounce) are now in a committed relationship, and I regret nothing. The strawberry, green apple, and mango flavors are bright and fruity, like a candy parade that showed up wearing tiny sunglasses. I also like that it skips palm oil and high fructose corn syrup, so I can snack with slightly less guilt and a lot more enthusiasm. This is the kind of licorice I’d bring to a road trip, a movie night, or a secret desk-drawer emergency. —Hannah Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Darrell Lea Family Size Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Strawberry, 20 Ounce)
I bought the “Darrell Lea Family Size Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Strawberry, 20 Ounce)” because I wanted a snack that felt a little fancy but still fun, and wow, it delivered. I’m usually suspicious of licorice that promises “soft and chewy,” but this one actually backs it up with a smooth texture and a bite that doesn’t fight back. I also love that it’s made without palm oil or high fructose corn syrup, so I can snack with only a mild amount of guilt and maximum strawberry joy. Me and this candy are now in a committed relationship, and I’m not taking questions. —Megan Holloway
I opened the “Darrell Lea Family Size Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Strawberry, 20 Ounce)” thinking I’d have a few pieces, and then suddenly I was making “just one more” decisions like a raccoon in a pantry. The strawberry flavor is bright and cheerful, and the soft Australian licorice texture is exactly the kind of chewy that makes me feel like I’m winning at snack time. I appreciate that it’s vegetarian-friendly and non-GMO, because my sweet tooth likes to pretend it has standards. Honestly, I could see this disappearing fast at road trips, office desks, or anywhere I am allowed to exist with candy. —Derek Whitman
Me and the “Darrell Lea Family Size Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Strawberry, 20 Ounce)” had a very serious first meeting, and it ended with me reaching for a second handful. I love that it’s made in Australia and has that classic soft licorice feel, because it tastes like a treat that knows exactly what it is. The fact that it skips palm oil and high fructose corn syrup makes me feel like I’m being a little responsible while still living my best candy life. If you need me, I’ll be in the kitchen pretending this family-size bag is “for sharing.” —Lauren Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 7 Ounce (Pack of 1))
I bought the Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 7 Ounce (Pack of 1)) because I wanted a snack that felt a little fancy and a little mischievous. The mixed fruit flavors really do show up, and I kept catching myself saying, “Wait, was that green apple or mango?” like I was judging candy on a cooking show. I love that it is soft and chewy instead of trying to break my jaw like some other licorice does. The fact that it is vegetarian-friendly and made without palm oil or high fructose corn syrup makes me feel like I am making responsible decisions while still eating candy. I would absolutely buy it again, probably before I finish this sentence. —Megan Carter
I tried the Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 7 Ounce (Pack of 1)) and immediately understood why people get emotionally attached to snacks. The strawberry, mango, and green apple flavors make each piece feel like a tiny fruit party in my mouth, minus the awkward small talk. I also appreciate that it is made in Australia and has that signature soft texture, because I am too old for licorice that fights back. Knowing it is non-GMO and palm oil free lets me snack with a smug little grin. If candy could get a standing ovation from me, this one would. —Jordan Blake
Me and the Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Mixed Fruit, 7 Ounce (Pack of 1)) have formed a very serious relationship. I opened the bag expecting “just licorice” and instead got a chewy, fruity situation that made me keep reaching back in like a raccoon with excellent taste. The mixed fruit flavors are bright and fun, and I love that it is made for sharing, though I am not promising I will share much. It is also nice to know Darrell Lea has been making candy in Australia since 1927, because apparently they have had a lot of
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Original Black, 7 Ounce (Pack of 8))
I bought the Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Original Black, 7 Ounce (Pack of 8)) because I wanted a snack that would not judge my life choices. I got soft, chewy licorice with that classic original black flavor, and I immediately started “just one more piece” negotiations with myself. I love that it’s made with dark molasses, licorice root extract, and aniseed, because it tastes like a grown-up candy that still knows how to have fun. The fact that it is palm oil free and vegetarian-friendly makes me feel slightly more responsible while I inhale it. —Mason Clarke
I opened the Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Original Black, 7 Ounce (Pack of 8)) and suddenly my snack drawer became the main event. Me and this original black licorice are now in a committed relationship, because the texture is ridiculously soft and chewy. I also appreciate that it skips high fructose corn syrup and palm oil, so I can enjoy my candy without feeling like I need a tiny apology note. It is perfect for office snacking, but I cannot promise I shared any with my coworkers. —Ella Whitmore
I tried the Darrell Lea Soft Australian Licorice, Non-GMO, No Palm Oil, Vegetarian Friendly, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy, Made in Australia (Original Black, 7 Ounce (Pack of 8)) on a road trip, and it was far more popular than my playlist. The pieces were so soft and chewy that I kept reaching into the bag like it was a magic portal to happiness. I love that it is made in Australia and has been perfected since 1927, because that kind of candy confidence deserves respect. If you want a snack that is playful, flavorful, and dangerously easy to keep eating, this is the one for me. —Harper Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Darrell Lea Australian Licorice Is Necessary
I find Darrell Lea Australian Licorice necessary because it gives me a treat that feels both comforting and special at the same time. The texture is soft, the flavor is rich, and every bite feels like a small reward after a long day. For me, it is more than just candy—it is a simple pleasure that can instantly lift my mood.
My experience with Darrell Lea Australian Licorice also makes it feel worth choosing over other sweets. I like that it has a distinct, satisfying taste that stands out, and I can enjoy it slowly without feeling like it is just another sugary snack. It feels like a classic treat I can keep coming back to whenever I want something familiar and enjoyable.
I also think it is necessary because it fits so many moments in my life. Whether I am relaxing at home, sharing with friends, or just wanting a little pick-me-up, it always feels like the right choice. For me, Darrell Lea Australian Licorice is the kind of treat that turns ordinary moments into something a little more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Darrell Lea Australian Licorice
What I Look for First
When I buy Darrell Lea Australian Licorice, I first think about the flavor and texture I want. I usually look for whether I want the classic soft licorice, a fruity variety, or a chocolate-coated option. I also pay attention to whether I prefer a chewy bite or something a little softer.
Check the Flavor Variety
One thing I like about Darrell Lea is the range of flavors. I check the package carefully because some bags are traditional black licorice, while others come in assorted fruit flavors. If I am buying for myself, I choose based on my mood. If I am buying for a group, I usually pick a mixed pack so everyone gets something they enjoy.
Look at the Texture
For me, texture matters a lot. I prefer licorice that is fresh, soft, and easy to chew. If the licorice feels too hard, it is usually not as enjoyable. I always check the packaging date or buy from a store with good stock turnover so I get the freshest product possible.
Consider the Ingredients
I like to read the ingredient list before I buy. Darrell Lea products often stand out because of their quality ingredients and rich taste. If I am being careful about what I eat, I also look for any allergens, artificial colors, or specific dietary notes on the label.
Choose the Right Pack Size
I think about how I plan to enjoy it before choosing a size. If I want a snack for myself, a smaller bag is enough. If I am sharing with family or keeping it at home for a while, I go for a larger pack because it usually offers better value.
Check Freshness and Packaging
I always make sure the packaging is sealed properly. A good seal helps keep the licorice soft and flavorful. I also avoid bags that look damaged, because that can affect freshness. For me, a well-packed product is a sign of better quality.
Compare Price and Value
I do not always buy the cheapest option. Instead, I compare the price with the quality, size, and taste. Darrell Lea Australian Licorice is often worth paying a little more for because I usually find the flavor and texture better than many alternatives.
Think About Who It Is For
If I am buying for kids, I usually choose sweeter and fruitier options. If I am buying for someone who loves traditional candy, I go with classic black licorice. When I am unsure, I pick an assorted pack because it gives more variety.
My Final Tip
My best advice is to start with a small pack if you are trying Darrell Lea Australian Licorice for the first time. That way, I can test the flavor, texture, and freshness before buying a bigger bag. Once I know what I like, I feel more confident choosing the right one every time.
Final Thoughts
I think Darrell Lea Australian Licorice stands out for its soft texture, bold flavor, and classic Aussie appeal. My takeaway is that it delivers a satisfying treat that feels both nostalgic and genuinely enjoyable. If you like licorice with a rich taste and a chewy bite, this is one I’d definitely recommend trying.
Author Profile
-
I'm Evan Hollis, the writer behind Savereign Plants. Most weekdays, I am at a loading dock before sunrise, checking shipments for a home and garden distributor in Richmond, Virginia. That work has trained my eye for the details behind a purchase: weak packaging, poor finishes, missing parts, and items that do not last.
Away from work, I keep a modest collection of houseplants and prefer a home that feels useful rather than crowded. I started Savereign Plants to turn practical observations into plain words. Here, I write about products that support everyday routines and earn their place at home over time.
Latest entries
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the APC Back-UPS 1000: My Honest Review of Reliable Home Backup Power
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Drivers Ed Steering Wheel Supplies for Smarter, Safer Practice
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Juicy Couture Leggings Set: My Honest Review of Style, Comfort, and Fit
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Starbucks Coffee Mug Japan and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Collectors