Kentucky is known for its rich culinary traditions, and nowhere is this more evident than in its beloved confections. Bourbon balls and pulled cream candy are among the most well-known treats throughout the Bluegrass State, offering a taste of Southern sweetness. But in Louisville, one candy stands above the rest: the modjeska, a delightful combination of soft caramel and marshmallow that has been satisfying sweet tooths for more than a century.
The odjeska’s origins trace back to the late 1800s when Louisville confectioner Anton Busath first created the sweet. Busath, an immigrant from France, originally called his caramel-coated marshmallow confection the “caramel biscuit,” however, this would change in 1883, when renowned Polish actress Helena Modjeska visited Louisville for a theatrical performance. Enchanted by her talent and presence as the lead role in Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, Busath renamed the candy in her honor, giving rise to the modjeska we know today.
Since its invention, the Modjeska has remained a treasured local treat, crafted with care and tradition. The candy-making process involves dipping pillowy homemade marshmallow into rich, buttery caramel to create a perfect balance of chewy and creamy textures. Today, several confectioners in Kentucky continue to produce this iconic sweet, ensuring that new generations can enjoy its timeless appeal.
Visitors to NuLu can experience the best of Louisville’s sweet traditions at Muth’s Candies, a family-run confectionery that has been serving the community since 1921. Known for its dipped chocolates and bourbon barrels, Muth’s most sought-after product is its handmade modjeska, something that offers a taste of history with every bite. For over 100 years, they have been keeping tradition alive in the heart of what today counts as the city’s trendiest neighborhood.
For those looking to explore NuLu’s culinary and cultural scene, Muth’s Candies is a featured stop on the popular NuLu Sites and Bites walking tour offered by Louisville Historic Tours. Join us for a journey through history, flavors, and stories, and discover why the modjeska remains Louisville’s most beloved hometown sweet.