Polkaprinsen

In the heart of Gränna, you will find Polkaprinsen, a true gem for anyone who loves classic polkagrisar, locally produced sweets, souvenirs, and gifts. Here, visitors can follow the bakers' process from sugar to finished peppermint rock candy and even try baking themselves with the reigning world champion in polkagris baking.

Polkaprinsen's shop is located right by the square in Gränna and is a traditional factory where polkagrisar and caramels are made by hand, just like in Amalia Erikson's time. With its rich selection of peppermint rock candy, caramels, and lollipops, the shop has something for every taste. There are also souvenirs and various gift packages. Polkaprinsen's shop is open year-round with generous opening hours, Monday to Sunday.

World champion in polkagris baking

In 2013, Polkaprinsen's founder, Stefan Fransson, won the title of world champion in polkagris baking at the Candy Championship, the only world championship in polkagris baking ever held. This prestigious championship was the starting point for Polkaprinsen and inspired Stefan and his wife Catrin to open a shop and factory.

Bake your own polkagrisar

At Polkaprinsen, visitors get the chance to try baking peppermint rock candy themselves. This activity begins with an introduction to the history of peppermint rock candy and Amalia Erikson's legacy, and continues with a practical session where participants get to knead and shape their own polkagris. The baker, who is often none other than the world champion himself, provides tips and guidance throughout the process.

Branch along the E4

Just outside Gränna, a short detour from the E4, lies Polkaprinsen's branch – ”Gränna för gott”. There, you will find classic peppermint rock candy as well as a wide range of other sweets, souvenirs, and gift items.

Amalia Erikson, the mother of pepparmint rock candy

The production of polkagrisar started in 1859 by the then-poor widow Amalia Erikson, who later became a successful entrepreneur. The then very popular polka dance gave the name to the polkagris, which became Gränna's main hallmark and one of Sweden's most popular souvenirs.

Genuine Gränna polkagrisar

The original recipe for the classic red and white polkagris External link, opens in new window. consists of sugar, water, glucose syrup, vinegar, peppermint oil, and red food colouring.

In 2022, Gränna polkagrisar received the EU designation PGI (Protected Geographical Indication), which means that only polkagrisar made in Gränna can be called "Genuine Gränna Polkagrisar."

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