American Candy

Why Does American Candy Taste so Different?

The secret lies in the ingredients and approach. American sweet makers often use corn syrup instead of cane sugar, which gives their candy a distinct sweetness. They're not shy about artificial flavours either. Blue raspberry, cotton candy, and bubblegum – these tastes don't exist in nature, but they've become American candy classics.

Temperature plays a part, too. Many American sweets are designed to withstand heat better than British confectionery. That's why a Hershey's bar has a higher melting point than Cadbury chocolate. It might taste different, but it won't turn into a puddle in your pocket on a warm day.

And then there's the philosophy. While British sweets often aim for subtlety, American candy tends to go big. Brighter colours, bolder flavours, more mix-ins. It's candy that demands attention.

What Are The Must-Try American Candies?

Start with the classics. Hershey's Kisses offer that distinctive American chocolate taste in perfect bite-sized portions. Love them or hate them, they're an essential part of the American candy experience. Pair them with some Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme for a twist on the traditional chocolate bar.

For something fruity, Skittles might seem familiar, but American Skittles hit differently. The flavours are more intense, and you'll find varieties we don't get here. Try the Wild Berry or Tropical versions for a new experience.

Sour fans need to experience the full range of American sour candy. Start with Sour Patch Kids – first they're sour, then they're sweet. Work your way up to Toxic Waste, which comes in a drum-shaped container for good reason. These sweets mean business.

Don't overlook the quirky options. Mike and Ikes offer chewy fruit flavours in unusual combinations. Swedish Fish (yes, they're considered American candy) have a unique texture and taste that's strangely addictive. And Laffy Taffy combines chewy candy with terrible jokes on every wrapper.

How Did American Candy Become So Popular in The UK?

The American candy invasion started slowly. Travellers would bring back treats from holidays, sharing Twinkies and Butterfingers with curious friends. Then came the internet, making it easier to order these exotic sweets online.

Pop culture played a massive role. Every time we watched American films or TV shows, we'd see characters munching on mysterious treats. ET's Reese's Pieces moment alone probably sparked thousands of candy orders from the UK. Social media accelerated everything – suddenly, everyone was filming their reactions to trying extreme American sour sweets.

Now, American candy sections are popping up everywhere, from corner shops to major supermarkets. But finding the good stuff, the authentic imports at fair prices? That's where specialist shops come in.

Which American Candy Flavours Don't Exist in The UK?

Root beer is the big one. This flavour appears in everything from hard sweets to chews, but most Brits find it tastes like medicine. Once you acquire the taste, though, root beer barrels and A&W root beer floats become oddly compelling.

Cinnamon candy is another American obsession we've largely missed. Red Hots, Atomic Fireballs, and Big Red gum pack a spicy punch that's nothing like the cinnamon in your spice rack. These sweets create a burning sensation – hence names like Atomic Fireball.

Peanut butter combinations go far beyond what we're used to. Americans put peanut butter in everything – combined with pretzels, mixed with marshmallow, covered in various chocolates. The Reese's range alone includes cups, pieces, sticks, and seasonal shapes.

Then there are the mystery flavours. What exactly is 'blue' flavour? Or 'red'? American candy often identifies flavours by colour rather than fruit, creating tastes that exist nowhere else.

Are American Candies Worth The Hype?

Some people dismiss American candy as too sweet or artificial. But that misses the point. American candy offers experiences you can't get anywhere else. It's about trying something new, pushing your taste boundaries, and discovering an unexpected favourite.

The variety of textures alone makes exploration worthwhile. From the satisfying crack of a Gobstopper to the stretchy pull of Airheads, American candy makers have perfected textures we rarely see in British sweets. Even familiar concepts get the American treatment – their gummy bears (especially Haribo's American recipes) have a different chew than ours.

Value varies wildly. Some American candies can be expensive in tourist shops, but finding the right supplier allows you to pay reasonable prices. Everyone should be able to afford these taste adventures, which is why we keep our prices fair and reasonable.

What's Next for American Candy in The UK?

The trend shows no signs of slowing. Each year brings new American candy innovations to discover. Freeze-dried candy has exploded in popularity, transforming familiar sweets into crunchy, intensely flavoured treats. Limited editions and seasonal flavours mean there's always something new to try.

Regional American candies are also starting to appear. Beyond the nationwide brands, each US state has local favourites. Saltwater taffy from the East Coast, pralines from the South, and artisan chocolates from the Pacific Northwest all tell their own stories.

The fusion trend is fascinating. British sweet makers are starting to incorporate American candy elements, while American brands create UK-exclusive flavours. It's making a whole new category of transatlantic treats.

American candy isn't just about satisfying a sweet tooth – it's about adventure, discovery, and expanding your palate. From the tangy kick of Nerds to the smooth sweetness of a Milky Way (which, confusingly, is different from our Milky Way), each sweet tells a story of American creativity and excess. Ready to taste the difference? Explore our American candy collection and find your new obsession today.