Pocky

Pocky is described as the "delicious, fun biscuit dessert from Japan." By biscuit, they mean light cookie, so these are little cookie sticks covered in a variety of "frostings". There are many flavors, including the traditional chocolate-frosted Pocky, strawberry, almond crush, blueberry bits, and so on.

Why are these a great stocking stuffer for kids and teens? Because the rise of Pokemon and Japanese anime and manga has led to a spike in popularity for all things trendy and Japanese, including snacks, which may be familiar to kids but will also seem exotic next to the usual Hershey's kisses and such. I've seen Pocky for sale at gaming stores where they hold the Magic: The Gathering collectible card game tournaments. I've seen them in our local upscale liquor store, and I think I've even seen them at our regular grocery store. It's a bit like Nutella, that chocolate hazelnut spread that came from England and at first could only be found in import grocery stores or speciality shops, but now can be found in any grocery store.

If you can't find them locally, you can get them online from the Asian Food Grocer website. You can buy in small or large quantities. The two 1.41 oz. boxes pictured here are only $1.08 apiece, and if you go in with a friend who also has kids who might like these, you could probably save a bit on shipping. While you're on the website, you may want to look around for other stocking stuffer goodies under their "Japanese candy" and "Hello Kitty snacks" links.

What: Pocky Sticks
Where: Asian Food Grocer website, gourmet or regular grocery stores, or gaming stores
How much (as of today's post): $1.08 (plus shipping)