Denise Dunn didn’t expect a family joke to turn into a small business venture, but when her kids suggested she start freeze-drying candy instead of returning to the workforce, she decided to give it a shot. Nearly two years later, Dunn Sweetly has become a unique addition to Owensboro’s small business scene, offering freeze-dried candy with a twist.
“We invested in freeze dryers, and the process changes the texture and intensifies the flavor of the candy,” Dunn said. “It’s like enjoying your favorite candies but with a completely different experience.”
The freeze-drying process pressurizes the candy, removing moisture and transforming textures. Gummy candies become airy and fluffy, while sticky treats like Skittles and Starbursts melt in your mouth. Dunn said the altered texture makes her candy especially popular with people who have braces, as the process eliminates the chewiness that orthodontists often warn against.
Though Dunn has experimented with freeze-dried fruits like strawberries and pineapples, she said customer demand is overwhelmingly in favor of candy. Gorilla Munch — her best-seller — and peanut brittle consistently outperform the healthier options.
Dunn Sweetly operates as a home-based business, with customers picking up their orders or visiting her booth at local vendor events in Daviess, McLean, Ohio, and Henderson counties. While Dunn dreams of expanding to a commercial setting, licensing restrictions currently limit her ability to ship products or sell through retail stores.
“Last year was tough for my business,” Dunn said, explaining that her family took in her niece and nephew for much of the year. “Family will always come first, but I’m hopeful 2025 will be a year of growth.”
Dunn credits her family for inspiring and supporting the business. Her kids not only came up with the name Dunn Sweetly but also serve as her taste testers, suggesting new products to try. The business has also provided a platform for Dunn to reconnect with the community after spending 12 years as a stay-at-home mom.
“I enjoy meeting people and giving back,” she said. “We’ve donated candy baskets for raffles to help families in need, and it’s been rewarding to make a difference while doing something I love.”
For now, fans of freeze-dried treats can follow Dunn Sweetly on Facebook at Dunn Sweetly to see where she’ll be next or to place orders directly.
