American Sweets

The Difference Between American Sweets and British Sweets

The most significant difference lies in the ingredients and flavour profiles. American sweets often contain corn syrup rather than sugar, creating that distinctive texture and sweetness. They're bolder, more experimental, and sometimes even include unexpected combinations, such as peanut butter and chocolate or cinnamon-spiced candies.

British sweets tend to focus on traditional flavours like fruit pastilles and mint humbugs. American confectionery pushes boundaries with sour candies that make your eyes water and chocolate bars packed with pretzels, popcorn, or even bacon bits.

The Most Popular American Sweets in The UK

Reese's Peanut Butter Cups reign supreme among British sweet lovers discovering American treats. That perfect balance of salty peanut butter and smooth chocolate creates an addictive combination you won't find in traditional British chocolates.

Hershey's bars, despite their distinctive taste that divides opinion, remain incredibly popular. Sour Patch Kids and Swedish Fish (yes, they're American, despite the name) also fly off our shelves. Jolly Ranchers offer intense fruit flavours that last a long time, and Twizzlers provide a chewy liquorice experience unlike anything found in Britain.

M&M's might seem familiar, but the American versions come in flavours we don't get here - think pretzel, peanut butter, and mint. And let's not forget about Tootsie Rolls, those chewy chocolate treats that have been around since 1896.

How do American Chocolate Bars Compare to UK Chocolate?

Here's where things get interesting. American chocolate contains less cocoa and more sugar than British chocolate. US regulations permit chocolate to include as little as 10% cocoa, whereas UK standards require a minimum of 25% for milk chocolate.

American chocolate often contains butyric acid, which gives it a slightly tangy taste. Some people love it; others find it takes getting used to. Texture differs too - American bars tend to be more complex and less creamy than their British counterparts.

Popular American chocolate bars, such as Butterfinger, Baby Ruth, and 100 Grand, offer entirely different experiences compared to Dairy Milk or Galaxy. They're often packed with extras like peanuts, caramel, or crispy rice, creating multi-textured treats.

The Best Sour American Sweets

Americans make sour sweets like nobody else. Warheads remain the ultimate test of sour tolerance - these hard candies start so sour they'll make your face scrunch up before revealing a sweet centre.

Toxic Waste candies come in a drum-shaped container and claim to be the sweetest sweets on the planet. Each piece packs an intense punch that sour-sweet fans adore. Sour Skittles and Sour Punch Straws offer a more manageable sour experience, perfect for those building up their tolerance.

Airheads Xtremes provide a chewy, rainbow-striped option coated in sour sugar. For something different, try Cry Baby bubble gum - it starts super sour before transforming into sweet gum.

Where Can You Buy Authentic American Sweets in The UK?

Finding genuine American sweets used to mean expensive imports or disappointing knock-offs. Now, we stock an extensive range of Sweets and candies, carefully selected to bring you authentic tastes from across the Atlantic.

We source directly from American suppliers, ensuring you get the real deal - not European versions with different recipes. Our collection includes classic favourites and new releases, allowing you to explore the full spectrum of American confectionery.

Shopping online gives you access to our complete American range, delivered straight to your door. We regularly update our stock based on what's trending stateside, so you'll discover new treats alongside established favourites.

Which American Sweets Work Best in Sweet Hampers?

Creating a sweet hamper with American treats offers endless possibilities. Start with crowd-pleasers like Reese's Pieces or Hershey's Kisses - they're instantly recognisable and universally enjoyed.

Add variety with different textures: chewy Laffy Taffy, crunchy Nerds, and smooth chocolate bars. Include some novelty items like Pop Rocks or Big League Chew bubble gum for fun surprises. Mike and Ikes or Hot Tamales bring fruity and spicy options, respectively.

Consider themed hampers too. A movie night hamper could feature Junior Mints, Milk Duds, and Raisinets - classic American cinema snacks. A retro hamper might include Charleston Chew, Now and Later, and Bit-O-Honey for nostalgic appeal.

American sweets transform ordinary hampers into exciting discoveries. Mix familiar treats with adventurous options to create memorable gifts that showcase the diversity of American confectionery. Whether you're treating yourself or creating the perfect present, these transatlantic treasures add something special to any sweet collection.