Andes Candies was founded in Chicago, Illinois in 1921 by Andrew Kanelos. Originally called Andy's Candies, the business produced a variety of boxed chocolates which it sold from a small Chicago storefront. The business grew to include 150 stores. With the expansion of the business, a factory was built to supply the stores, and the name was changed to Andes Candies.

In 1950, the Andes store product line was increased to include the Crème de Menthe candy piece. This three-layer mint has remained the cornerstone of the brand. Today, this delicious and refreshing candy is the number one selling after-dinner mint.

Over the years, Andes has expanded to include a variety of flavors and packages, including the popular Cherry Jubilee, Mint Parfait, Toffee Crunch Thins, and seasonal Peppermint Crunch.

Andes joined the Tootsie family in 2000, expanding its line in 2003 to include Crème de Menthe baking chips. Peppermint Crunch Baking Chips were added in 2005.