Chenlou melon-shaped candy. [Photo by Li Qinglin/provided to english.jinan.gov.cn]

Chenlou melon-shaped candy is a traditional Chinese confection with a history spanning over 100 years. Growing out of the folk custom of offering sweets to the Kitchen God during the Xiaonian (Little New Year) celebration on traditional Chinese calendar, the craft combines ancient malt sugar-making techniques native to Laiwu district, resulting in a treat known for its crispy texture, light sweetness, and melt-in-your-mouth experience.

A craftsman creates Chenlou melon-shaped candy. [Photo/Shandian News]

The candy is made primarily from millet and malt and undergoes a complex, multi-step process including fermentation, sugar boiling, and sugar roasting. The final product takes on a hollow, spherical form and is coated in sesame seeds. It has a golden hue and rich malt aroma-a truly distinctive flavor of traditional Shandong.

In recent years, the Chenlou melon-shaped candy has been vitalized through a blend of intellectual property strategy and brand innovation. Its trademark, registered in 2011, protects authenticity and boosts recognition on e-commerce platforms.

Today, Chenlou melon-shaped candy is preserved by one recognized artisan, a dedicated workshop, and a team of newly trained apprentices. The craft supports rural development, creating over 100 jobs and producing 250,000 kilograms of candy each year, with an annual output worth over 5 million yuan ($686,100).