Sweet treats at Sugar Shack

Next time you have a hankering for a caramel apple, you can zip on over to the Sugar Shack.

Hardly a shack, the little store located at Plaza Waterfront, opened in mid-June. Owned by Randy Rasmussen and Kim Conte, the store features “penny” candy, caramel apples, ice cream floats, soda pop and even sugarless candy.

Randy and Kim have lived in Fountain Hills since 2000. Randy has worked for Marriott managing different properties throughout his career. He has moved numerous times, and he and Kim decided it was time to settle down, quit the commute and enjoy something they always wanted.

“We were in Alabama in the process of buying a boat,” Randy said. “We were out walking around and saw a candy store. We both thought it would be neat to have that here. It took some time, but here we are.”

The Sugar Shack is filled with all those familiar treats from the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s. Boston Baked Beans, Sugar Babies, Cherry Mash, rock candy, candy necklaces, Nik-L-Nips are in the store.

Randy and Kim have the treats artfully – and temptingly – arranged so people can buy a quarter pound for a buck. Some individual pieces are sold for less than a dollar, and other items are available at a higher price.

Pricing for caramel apples ranges from $2.50 to $3.50. Frozen bananas are $2.50 each. A scoop of ice cream can be had for 75 cents.

Regardless of the pricing, the variety is there, and there is something for every taste.

In addition to the “retro” candy are hand-made pleasures: the caramel apples are created by Randy and Kim. Randy makes a chocolate cup filled with berries. A variety of homemade fudge and turtles also are available.

If you want something “more modern,” there are gourmet chocolates and Jelly Bellies. For those watching calories or sugar intake is a wide assortment of sugarless candy.

“We have a great selection for everybody,” Randy said. “Even if you can’t eat sugar, we have something for you.”

Gift items also are available. Stuffed animals, candles, knick knacks and greeting cards adorn the shop.

At some time in the future, Randy said the store will have gift baskets available. There currently are small baskets for sale, but larger, more elaborate baskets will be created.

Randy also said he and Kim plan to help local schools and other community organizations with fund raisers.

“We are part of this community, and we want to cater to it,” Randy said. “

Randy said they are enjoying their new location.

“We are right in the heart of the town,” he said. “The splash pad is right here, and the kids will be out at the playground and come in for a treat. I think this is really going to be fun.”

The Sugar Shack is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and is closed Sunday and Monday. Call (480) 837-1902 for more information. The shop’s address is 12625 N. Saguaro Blvd., Suite 105.