If you enjoy chewy caramel and a soft cream filling, cow tail candy is one sweet treat you may want to know more about. The candy is officially called Cow Tales, and Goetze’s first introduced it in 1984. Unlike hard candies or chocolate bars, it combines chewy caramel with a creamy center in a long, easy-to-bite shape.
Over the years, Goetze’s has added several flavors, including Original Caramel, Strawberry Smoothie, Caramel Apple, Caramel Brownie, and Honey Bun. Mini versions are also available. Here is what you need to know about Cow Tales, from their history and ingredients to flavors, nutrition, and the difference between Cow Tales and Caramel Creams.
Table of Contents
What is Cow Tail Candy?
Cow tail candy is a common name used for Goetze’s Cow Tales, a chewy caramel candy with a soft cream center. The original Cow Tales comes as a 1-ounce caramel stick, while Mini Cow Tales offer the same basic candy in a smaller format.
The candy has a simple structure. A layer of chewy caramel surrounds a creamy center, giving you two different textures in one bite. The original version focuses on the classic caramel flavor, while the flavored varieties add fruit, chocolate, cinnamon, or honey notes.
Despite the name, Cow Tales are not made from real cow tails. The unusual name is simply part of the brand’s playful identity.
Why Is It Called Cow Tales?
There is a reason Goetze’s spells the name “Tales” instead of “Tails.” Cow Tales were created as a new version of the company’s Caramel Creams, which were also known as Bulls-Eyes. Goetze’s kept the cow theme but chose “Tales” to connect the product with whimsical children’s stories. Early Cow Tales packaging featured a cow jumping over the moon, referencing the nursery rhyme Hey Diddle Diddle.
So, if you search for “cow tail candy,” you are most likely looking for Cow Tales candy. The official brand name uses “Tales.”
What Does Cow Tales Candy Taste Like?
The Original Cow Tales has a sweet caramel flavor with a creamy center. The outer caramel is chewy, while the center is softer and smoother.
The flavored varieties change that basic profile. For example, Strawberry Smoothie combines strawberry-flavored caramel with cream, while Caramel Apple pairs chewy caramel with a tart apple-flavored cream center. Caramel Brownie brings chocolate and brownie flavors, while Honey Bun adds cinnamon and honey notes.
If you already like chewy caramel candy or cream-filled sweets, the original version is the simplest one to try first.
The History of Cow Tales Candy
Goetze’s Candy has been making confectionery products since 1895. The company began as the Baltimore Chewing Gum Company before gradually moving toward caramel products. Its Caramel Creams were introduced in 1918, becoming the foundation for the company’s later caramel products.
Cow Tales arrived much later. In 1984, Goetze’s introduced the candy as a longer and thinner version of Caramel Creams. The company says Cow Tales use the same secret family recipe as Caramel Creams but in a different format.
Cow Tales Timeline
| Year | What Happened |
| 1895 | Goetze’s Candy traces its beginnings to the Baltimore Chewing Gum Company |
| 1918 | Caramel Creams were introduced |
| 1984 | Original Cow Tales were launched |
| 1987 | Mini Cow Tales were introduced |
| 1993 | Caramel Apple Cow Tales were launched |
| 1996 | Chocolate Cow Tales were introduced |
| 2024 | Honey Bun Cow Tales debuted for the 40th anniversary |
This history explains why Cow Tales are closely associated with Goetze’s older caramel products. They were not created as an entirely separate idea but as a new way to enjoy the company’s familiar caramel-and-cream combination.
What Are Cow Tales Candy Ingredients?
The exact Cow Tales ingredients depend on the flavor and package. For the Original Caramel version, the ingredient list includes wheat flour, corn syrup, sugar, coconut oil, high-fructose corn syrup, dextrose, modified whey, skim milk, cream, palm oil, corn starch, salt, natural and artificial flavor, and soy lecithin.
Goetze’s also says that its caramels are made with real dairy milk. Wheat flour is the first ingredient listed for its Cow Tales candy.
Because recipes can differ between flavors, you should check the package if you need the most current ingredient information.
Do Cow Tales Contain Allergens?
Yes. Goetze’s identifies wheat, milk, and soy as allergens in its Cow Tales products. The company also states that its Cow Tales and Caramel Creams are peanut-free and tree-nut-free.
However, if you have a serious food allergy, do not rely only on general product information. Always check the allergen statement on the package before eating the candy, particularly when buying a different flavor or package size.
Cow Tales Candy Flavors
The Cow Tales lineup has grown well beyond the original caramel version. Goetze’s currently lists Original, Honey Bun, Strawberry Smoothie, Caramel Apple, and Caramel Brownie varieties.
1. Original Caramel Cow Tales
This is the flavor that started the Cow Tales brand in 1984. It features a chewy caramel exterior and a cream center and is available in both regular and mini formats.
If you want to know what classic caramel cream candy tastes like, this is the natural place to start.
2. Strawberry Smoothie Cow Tales
Strawberry Smoothie gives the traditional caramel candy a fruity change. It features strawberry-flavored chewy caramel with a cream center.
It is a good choice if you prefer fruit-flavored sweets but still want the chewy texture associated with Cow Tales.
3. Caramel Apple Cow Tales
Caramel Apple combines chewy caramel with a tart apple-flavored cream center. Goetze’s introduced this flavor in 1993, and it received the Confectionery Industries Product of the Year award in 1994.
The apple note gives this version a different character from the sweeter Original Caramel.
4. Caramel Brownie Cow Tales
Chocolate fans have the Caramel Brownie Cow Tales option. It combines chewy chocolate caramel with a brownie-flavored cream filling.
You still get the familiar soft-and-chewy texture, but the chocolate flavor makes this variety richer than the original.
5. Honey Bun Cow Tales
Honey Bun Cow Tales were introduced in 2024, marking the 40th anniversary of Cow Tales. The flavor combines the original caramel with honey and cinnamon notes.
If you enjoy the flavor of a honey bun but want something in candy form, this variety offers a similar flavor direction in a chewy caramel stick.
6. Mini Cow Tales
Mini Cow Tales are simply smaller versions of Cow Tales, rather than a separate flavor. Goetze’s introduced them in 1987, three years after the original product.
They can be useful when you want smaller pieces or prefer to have a few bite-sized candies instead of a full 1-ounce stick.
Cow Tales Candy Nutrition
Cow Tales nutrition depends on the specific product and serving size, so you should check the package for the most accurate information.
For example, Goetze’s lists 120 calories per 1-ounce (28 g) Original Cow Tales piece. That serving contains 21 g of carbohydrates, 11 g of total sugars, 3 g of total fat, and 1 g of protein.
Mini Cow Tales have different serving information. One current label lists 3 pieces (34 g) at 140 calories, with 26 g of carbohydrates and 13 g of total sugars.
| Nutrition | Original Cow Tales, 1 piece (28 g) |
| Calories | 120 |
| Total fat | 3 g |
| Saturated fat | 2.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 21 g |
| Total sugars | 11 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Sodium | 15 mg |
These figures are for the specific product and package referenced above. Flavors and package sizes can have different nutrition information, so check the label of the product you are buying.
Cow Tales vs. Caramel Creams: What’s the Difference?
Cow Tales and Caramel Creams are closely related. Both come from Goetze’s and use the company’s caramel-and-cream concept.
The main difference is the shape and format. Caramel Creams are round, while Cow Tales are long, thin caramel sticks. Goetze’s describes Cow Tales as a new format made from the same family recipe used for Caramel Creams.
| Feature | Cow Tales | Caramel Creams |
| Shape | Long, thin stick | Round |
| Outer layer | Chewy caramel | Chewy caramel |
| Center | Cream | Cream |
| Cow Tales introduced | 1984 | — |
| Main difference | Elongated format | Classic round format |
So, if you already enjoy Caramel Creams, Cow Tales offer a very familiar flavor combination in a different shape.
Why Do People Still Buy Cow Tales Candy?
One reason is the straightforward combination of chewy caramel and cream. You do not have to get used to an unusual texture or complicated flavor profile.
There is also a strong nostalgic element to the brand. Cow Tales have been around since 1984, and Goetze’s has been making caramel products for more than a century. The cow-themed branding and distinctive name add to that old-school candy feel.
The selection of flavors also gives you options. You can stay with the classic Original Caramel or choose something fruitier, chocolaty, or spiced.
Where Can You Buy Cow Tales Candy?
You can find Cow Tales through retail stores and online sellers, with availability depending on the flavor and package size. Goetze’s also lists its Cow Tales products through its official online store.
You can find different formats, including:
- 1-ounce Cow Tales sticks
- Mini Cow Tales
- Share packs
- Multi-piece boxes
- Different flavored varieties
If you are looking for a particular flavor, check the current product listing before purchasing because availability can vary.
Is Cow Tail Candy Worth Trying?
If you already enjoy caramel candy, Cow Tales are worth trying for their simple combination of chewy caramel and cream.
For your first taste, Original Caramel is the easiest choice because it represents the classic Cow Tales flavor. If you prefer something different, Strawberry Smoothie offers a fruity option, Caramel Apple adds tart apple notes, Caramel Brownie brings chocolate, and Honey Bun adds cinnamon and honey.
The candy is fairly straightforward, and that is part of its appeal. You get chewy caramel, a creamy center, and several flavors to choose from without an overly complicated candy format.
Wrapping Up
Cow tail candy, officially known as Cow Tales, has a simple formula that has remained recognizable for more than four decades: chewy caramel wrapped around a creamy center. Introduced by Goetze’s in 1984, the candy later expanded into several flavors and Mini Cow Tales.
Whether you choose Original Caramel, Strawberry Smoothie, Caramel Apple, Caramel Brownie, or Honey Bun, the basic Cow Tales experience stays the same. If you like classic chewy caramel candy with a soft filling, it is an easy treat to add to your list. Just remember to check the current ingredient and allergen label if you have dietary restrictions or food allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is cow tail candy the same as Cow Tales?
Yes. “Cow tail candy” is a common search term for Goetze’s Cow Tales. The official brand name is spelled “Cow Tales,” not “Cow Tails.”
Q2. Who makes Cow Tales candy?
Goetze’s Candy Company makes Cow Tales. The company traces its history to 1895 and introduced Cow Tales in 1984.
Q3. When were Cow Tales introduced?
Goetze’s introduced Original Cow Tales in 1984. Mini Cow Tales followed in 1987.
Q4. What is inside Cow Tales candy?
Cow Tales have a chewy caramel exterior and a cream center. Ingredients vary by flavor, but the Original Caramel version contains wheat flour, corn syrup, sugar, dairy ingredients, oils, and other ingredients.
Q5. What flavors of Cow Tales are available?
Goetze’s currently lists Original Caramel, Honey Bun, Strawberry Smoothie, Caramel Apple, and Caramel Brownie Cow Tales. Mini versions are also available.
Q6. Are Cow Tales gluten-free?
No. Goetze’s lists wheat flour as an ingredient, and its allergen information identifies wheat in Cow Tales products.
Q7. Do Cow Tales contain milk?
Yes. Cow Tales contain milk and other dairy ingredients. Goetze’s also identifies soy and wheat as allergens in its products.