There is no denying that in the USA, candy and confectionery is big business.
In fact, the confectionery industry is worth around $44 billion to the country’s economy each year. Almost 80% of American’s say that chocolate and candy is an important part of their emotional wellbeing… so much so, that confectionary is actually considered an incredibly important part of the American way of life. As a result, it’s no surprise that America is synonymous with ultra sweet treats and delectable candy - and these goodies have started to make their way to the UK over the past few years.
You may have noticed that many supermarkets in the UK actually have American sweet aisles or food aisles these days, with shelves stocked full of candies, cereals, sauces and other products from across the pond. This trend continues to grow, and we’re seeing more and more US brands appear on our shores as British people’s tastes turn to the super sweet American flavours.
With so many different brands to choose from, it's hard to know where to start when it comes to the UK’s favourite American sweets. Here at the Sweet Hamper Company, we know a thing or two about American sweets, so we’ve called upon our experts to give us the lowdown on the top American sweets to look out for in UK stores.
Some of these American sweets are already familiar favourites in British sweets shops and supermarkets, others are fairly new to the UK. But one thing we can say for sure is they all taste absolutely delicious (and many can be found in some of our American themed sweet hampers, sweet boxes, chocolate bouquets and other products).
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
These sweet chocolate bites are the top rated candy in America, according to a poll by USA Today. They have been available for almost a century and are named after their inventor, H B Reese who was a dairy farmer. Today, the chocolates are available in a range of different sizes, varieties, and products (including stand alone jars of its very own peanut butter) but they all have the sweet, nutty taste of peanut butter running through them. An absolute American classic!
M&Ms
Did you know, this colourful snack was originally inspired by British ‘Smarties’. These little balls of chocolate are almost 80 years old and were originally manufactured in the Mars Factory in New Jersey. But what does M&M actually stand for? The answer is the names of the original co-creators - Mars and Murrie.
Tootsie Rolls
These retro favourites are a little more difficult to find in UK stores and sweet shops, however if you can get your hand on them, they have an incredible smooth toffee / fudge flavour. Originally invented in 1907, these cylindrical tubes have a distinct flavour and texture, similar to a Cadubury’s Eclair.
Jelly Belly
There is no mistaking the fruity flavour of Jelly Belly jelly beans - another American classic which has been available since the 1960s. With over 50 flavours to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Twizzlers
Usually found in strawberry flavour, these chewy sweets are also available in orange, lemon and caramel. These super juicy American sweets are quite similar to strawberry laces, but even tastier.
Hershey’s Kisses
Another one of America’s favourite chocolate treats are Hershey’s Kisses. These little drops of chocolate are individually wrapped with a message attached to the top of each one.
Check out our full range of American sweets and American Sweet Hampers