Best American Candy
Did you know that the average American eats around 22 pounds (10 kg) of candy each year? That’s a whole lot of sweets! American candy is a big part of US culture, loved worldwide for its unique flavours and nostalgic feel. Whether you’re after a treat or curious about what makes these candies so iconic, you’ll find plenty to love. Whether you’re into classic chocolate bars or fruity, chewy sweets, American candy is always a treat. Every bite can bring back happy childhood memories and remind us of simpler times. American sweets are now very popular in the UK, with many eager to try them. Whether you’re a devoted fan or just want to experience these classic flavours, this guide will help you discover what makes them so well-loved.
Here is a list of the top 10 best American candies to try. These picks capture the iconic and delicious treats that define the US candy scene.
Key Takeaways – Best American Candy
- American candy is famous for its unique flavours and nostalgic charm.
- Classic American sweets are loved in the UK.
- The top 10 best American candy choices are a treat for your taste buds.
- Iconic US sweets include chocolate bars, fruity, and chewy treats.
- Trying these beloved American candies is a must for sweet lovers.
Introduction to the Best American Candy
The best American candy has made people smile for generations. With a rich history and iconic status, these treats are enjoyed worldwide, offering a sweet escape from everyday life. Brands like Hershey’s, M&M’s, and Reese’s have been loved for years. These candies evoke memories of childhood and special times spent with friends and family. American candy has undergone significant changes over the years. Classic favourites remain popular, but new flavours have been introduced. Now, you can find everything from peanut butter to fruity and sour sweets. American candy is popular not just in the US, but also here in the UK. Special shops and online stores make it easy to find these sweets.
Exploring American candy—from old favourites to new discoveries—is fun for everyone. These sweets bring joy to people of all ages and invite you to share in the tradition.
The Nostalgic Appeal of Classic American Confectionery
When we think about favourite American lollies and famous chocolate brands, it brings back memories. These sweets have been around for years, reminding us of happy childhood moments and the simple joy of a sweet treat.
Timeless Favourites from Childhood Memories
Take, for instance, Hershey’s Kisses, M&M’s, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups—many of us remember these from childhood. These favourites have been loved for decades and hold a special place in our hearts. Their lasting charm lies in unique tastes and textures. Biting into a Snickers bar can instantly transport us to our carefree youth or remind us of the joy found in a visit to the candy store.
Iconic Packaging and Branding
The packaging and branding of American sweets add to their appeal. Bright colours, logos, and slogans are memorable parts of our shared memories.
“Taste the Rainbow” – Skittles
The yellow Reese’s wrapper and colourful Skittles packets are icons. These designs have endured for years, offering comfort in a changing world.
So, classic American sweets are special for more than just their taste or packaging. They bring back memories and feelings. When we enjoy these treats and share them with others, we help keep the legacy of these famous chocolate brands and beloved lollies alive.
Hershey’s: An American Chocolate Icon
Hershey’s is a leading name in US sweets. Founded by Milton S. Hershey in 1894, the brand is known for its creamy chocolate, which many people love. Milton Hershey started in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, learning candy-making. His first venture was the Lancaster Caramel Company, but chocolate was his passion. In 1900, Hershey sold his caramel company for $1 million, which allowed him to focus on chocolate. He purchased new machines from Germany to produce milk chocolate more affordably, revolutionising the candy industry in America. Hershey’s has created many beloved sweets over the years. Hershey’s Kisses and the Hershey’s Chocolate Bar are favourites, loved by many in America.
Here are some of Hershey’s most loved chocolates:
| Hershey’s Kisses | Bite-sized drops of chocolate wrapped in distinctive foil | 1907 |
| Hershey’s Chocolate Bar | The classic milk chocolate bar with its signature brown and silver wrapper | 1900 |
| Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Creme | White chocolate bar with cookie bits mixed throughout | 1994 |
| Hershey’s Special Dark | A rich, dark chocolate bar for those who prefer a less sweet taste | 1971 |
Hershey’s remains a leader in sweets and is enjoyed worldwide. The company continues to create new treats, securing its place in American candy history.
M&M’s: Colourful Chocolate Treats
M&M’s are true icons among American candies. These small, round chocolates with colourful candy shells have delighted candy fans for generations. With their great taste and playful look, M&M’s remain a top choice for those with a sweet tooth.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHQBRnOfTFg
The History of M&M’s
M&M’s history began in the 1930s. Forrest Mars Sr., the son of the Mars candy founder, observed soldiers in the Spanish Civil War eating chocolate pellets coated in a hard sugar shell to prevent them from melting. Mars then teamed up with Bruce Murrie, the son of Hershey’s president, to create these candies. The first M&M’s were sold in 1941 in five colours: red, yellow, green, brown, and violet. Over the years, new colours have been added and some retired. Today, M&M’s are enjoyed in over 100 countries and are a global favourite.
Varieties and Flavours
M&M’s are loved for their many varieties: classic milk chocolate, peanut, peanut butter, and pretzel. There’s an M&M for every taste.
Here are some of the most popular M&M’s varieties:
- Milk Chocolate
- Peanut
- Peanut Butter
- Pretzel
- Crispy
- Caramel
- Almond
- Dark Chocolate
M&M’s also release limited edition and seasonal flavours for holidays like Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween, and Christmas.
| Valentine’s Day | Strawberry, Raspberry |
| Easter | Vanilla, Coconut |
| Halloween | White Chocolate Candy Corn, Pumpkin Spice |
| Christmas | White Chocolate Peppermint, Hot Chocolate |
With many flavours, M&M’s are top favourites. Whether you prefer classics or new choices, there’s an M&M for everyone.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: The Perfect Combination
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are US candy icons, combining chocolate and peanut butter in a beloved way in both the US and the UK. Their flavour drives success: creamy peanut butter in smooth milk chocolate creates a sweet-savoury mix that makes them so popular.
Fun facts about Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups:
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups were invented by Harry Burnett Reese in 1928
- They are the best-selling candy brand in the United States.
- Reese’s produces enough peanut butter cups each year to circle the Earth over 6 times.
Reese’s Cups have inspired many other treats. These include:
| Reese’s Pieces | Peanut butter candy coated in a crispy shell |
| Reese’s Sticks | Wafer bars filled with peanut butter and covered in chocolate |
| Reese’s Big Cup | A larger version of the classic peanut butter cup |
Whether you’ve enjoyed them for years or are trying them now, Reese’s Cups are a must. They’re a classic among American sweets.
Twizzlers: Twisted Fun
Twizzlers have stayed popular for years, loved for their twisted shape and taste. Both kids and adults enjoy their chewy texture and flavour. Twizzlers come in many flavours, but strawberry is the favourite. The brand has also introduced other tasty options like:
- Cherry
- Chocolate
- Rainbow
- Filled Twists (with flavoured centres)
Twizzlers are loved for their versatility. They’re great on their own or in desserts. They can even serve as straws for milkshakes or other drinks.
Twizzlers are classic American candy. Their unique shape and flavour have made them favourites for generations.
Twizzlers appear in movies, TV, and songs. Their fame keeps them beloved American candies.
| Strawberry | 1845 |
| Cherry | 1970s |
| Chocolate | 1990s |
| Rainbow | 2000s |
Snickers: Satisfying Chocolate, Caramel, and Nougat
Snickers is a top name among famous American chocolate brands. It has been a favourite for years, thanks to its unique blend of chocolate, caramel, and nougat. It’s a key part of quintessential US confections and loved by chocolate fans worldwide.
The appeal of Snickers comes from its blend of textures and flavours. A milk chocolate coating surrounds a caramel layer and soft nougat, while crunchy peanuts on top add a salty, nutty taste to every bite.
The Snickers Slogan and Marketing Campaigns
Snickers is well-known thanks to catchy slogans and smart marketing. Its famous line, “You’re not you when you’re hungry,” has resonated globally. It implies that a Snickers bar can restore your true self when hunger hits.
Over the years, Snickers has introduced unique flavours to keep things fresh:
| Snickers Peanut Butter Squared | Peanut butter nougat and peanut butter caramel | 2011 |
| Snickers Almond | Almonds instead of peanuts | 2012 |
| Snickers Hazelnut | Hazelnuts instead of peanuts | 2018 |
These new Snickers versions excite fans and keep the brand among America’s top chocolate names.
Skittles: Taste the Rainbow
Skittles are colourful candies loved worldwide. They’re UK favourites, known for their chewy texture and bold flavours.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_u8LLLfpbM&pp=ygUGI3VrbWNk
Skittles Flavours and Variations
Original Skittles flavours include strawberry, orange, lemon, green apple, and grape. The brand also offers new and limited-edition sweets, such as:
- Sour Skittles
- Wild Berry Skittles
- Tropical Skittles
- Skittles Riddles
- Skittles Darkside
These flavours keep fans eager for something new.
Skittles in Popular Culture
Skittles have had a significant impact on pop culture, frequently appearing in various forms of media. Their “Taste the Rainbow” slogan is widely known.
“Skittles: Taste the Rainbow” – The iconic Skittles slogan
These colourful candies are featured in songs, movies, and TV shows. They’ve become more than just sweets; now they’re symbols of fun and vibrant flavours.
Starburst: Juicy Fruit Chews
Starburst is a favourite for fruit candy lovers. Introduced in the 1960s, these colourful chews have stayed popular.
Starburst is known for its bold fruit flavours and chewy texture. Each pack has a mix of bright flavours, such as:
- Strawberry
- Orange
- Lemon
- Cherry
Starburst often introduces new flavours to keep things interesting. Some special ones include:
| Starburst Very Berry | Strawberry, Raspberry, Blueberry, Cherry |
| Starburst Sour | Sour Strawberry, Sour Apple, Sour Watermelon, Sour Cherry |
| Starburst Tropical | Pina Colada, Strawberry Banana, Mango Melon, Cherry Kiwi |
The chewy starburst derives its texture from hydrogenated vegetable oil and fruit juice, making it soft and enjoyable to eat. As one fan said, “It’s my go-to candy when I’m craving something fruity and fun.” The flavours are so vibrant, and the chew is just perfect.
Starburst is great for the cinema, sharing with friends, or as a quick snack at work. These classic American candies add joy to any day.
Jolly Ranchers: Bold Flavours in Hard Candy
Jolly Ranchers have been a favourite for many years. They are known for their bold, fruity flavours. These hard candies are a staple in American candy bars, enjoyed by people of all ages.
Jolly Ranchers come in many flavours, from Green Apple to Watermelon. Their bright colours make them appealing to both the eyes and the taste buds.
The Origins of Jolly Ranchers
In 1949, Bill and Dorothy Harmsen started the Jolly Rancher Company in Golden, Colorado. They first sold ice cream and chocolate, then moved to hard candies. The name “Jolly Rancher” was chosen to be friendly and welcoming.
Over time, Jolly Ranchers became a favourite across the US. In 1996, the Hershey Company bought the brand. This move made Jolly Ranchers even more popular in classic American confectionery.
| Cherry | Red | High |
| Green Apple | Green | Medium |
| Watermelon | Pink | High |
| Blue Raspberry | Blue | Medium |
| Grape | Purple | Low |
If you’re feeling nostalgic for childhood treats or just want a tasty hard candy, Jolly Ranchers are a great choice. These timeless sweets are a favourite among candy lovers and a true icon of American confectionery.
Tootsie Rolls: Chewy Chocolate Delights
Tootsie Rolls have been popular for over a century and are a favourite among candy lovers of all ages. Their unique texture and flavour have made them a staple among legendary American sweets.
Tootsie Rolls were first made in 1896 by Leo Hirshfield, an Austrian immigrant. He named them after his daughter, Clara, whose nickname was “Tootsie.” The original recipe, still used today, includes cocoa, sugar, and other ingredients for their chewy texture.
Tootsie Rolls are loved for their versatility. They come in different sizes, from mini to large, and are individually wrapped. This makes them great for snacking, sharing, or using in baking and desserts.
“Tootsie Rolls have been a favourite candy of mine since childhood. There’s just something about that chewy, chocolatey goodness that keeps me coming back for more!”
Over the years, Tootsie Roll Industries has introduced new flavours, but the original chocolate Tootsie Roll remains the most beloved and iconic.
If you’re in the mood for a nostalgic treat or craving a chocolate candy, try a Tootsie Roll and enjoy a taste of American candy history.
Best American Candy: A Guide to Must-Try Sweets
Iconic US sweets offer many tasty options. From classic chocolate bars to fruity and chewy treats, the best American candy has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll look at some must-try US confections.
Top Picks for Chocolate Lovers
If you love chocolate, American candy has plenty to offer. Here are some top picks:
- Hershey’s Bars: A true American classic, Hershey’s milk chocolate bars are a staple in every candy lover’s collection.
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: The perfect combination of smooth peanut butter and luscious chocolate, Reese’s cups are a favourite among many.
- Snickers: Packed with nougat, caramel, and peanuts, all enrobed in chocolate, Snickers bars are a satisfying treat for any occasion.
Fruity and Chewy Candy Favourites
If you enjoy fruity flavours and chewy textures, these candies are perfect:
- Starburst: With their juicy fruit flavours and soft, chewy consistency, Starburst are a go-to choice for many candy enthusiasts.
- Skittles: Taste the rainbow with these colourful, bite-sized candies that come in a variety of tantalising fruit flavours.
- Twizzlers: These twisted, fruit-flavoured liquorice ropes are a fun and tasty treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m211v9rZaGw&pp=ygULI3N3ZWV0c2ludWs%3D
Classic Hard Candies and Lollies
If you like long-lasting, hard candies, American confectionery has some timeless favourites:
| Jolly Ranchers | Cherry, Watermelon, Green Apple, Grape, Blue Raspberry | Hard and slow-melting |
| Tootsie Pops | Chocolate, Cherry, Orange, Grape, Raspberry | Hard candy shell with a chewy Tootsie Roll centre |
| Dum Dums | Cream Soda, Root Beer, Cotton Candy, Bubblegum, and more | Small, hard lollipops |
From childhood favourites to treats for adults, American candy has something for everyone.
Next time you want something sweet, explore the world of iconic US sweets. With so many classic options, you’ll find a new favourite or rediscover an old one.
Where to Find the Best American Candy in the UK
If you love American candy and live in the UK, you don’t have to travel far. There are many places to find the best American sweets right here. Shopping online is a great way to enjoy your favourite American sweets. Many online shops import a wide range of American candies, so you can try the flavours of camp New York from home.
Online Sweet Shops and Retailers
Here are some top online spots for the best American candy in the UK:
- American Fizz
- A Quarter Of
- Candy Hero
- Taffy Mail
- American Goodies
These online shops have a huge selection of American candies. You can find classics like Hershey’s and M&M’s, as well as rare treats. Some even offer subscription boxes, so you can get new candies regularly.
Speciality Candy Stores
There are also speciality candy stores in the UK that sell American sweets. These shops let you explore and find new treats, just like at camp New York.
| Cyber Candy | London, Birmingham, Brighton |
| Handy Candy | London |
| Americandy | Glasgow |
| Sweet Treats USA | Croydon |
Whether you prefer shopping online or visiting a store, you can find the best American candy in the UK. It’s easy to satisfy your cravings for the best American candy and remember camp New York.
Enjoying the Best American Candy with Friends and Family
Sharing American lollies and candies with loved ones is a great way to make memories. It’s fun to gather around M&M’s or Twizzlers during a movie night. These treats bring people closer together. These sweets can also evoke fond memories. Talking about childhood favourites like Hershey’s Kisses or Reese’s Cups is a fun way to share stories of trick-or-treating and simpler times. Art is a fun idea. Offer a variety of candies and let everyone try something new.
You can even have a competition to see which candies are the favourites. Here’s a simple way to plan your party:
| Chocolate | Hershey’s Bars, M&M’s, Snickers | 4.5 |
| Fruit Flavours | Starburst, Skittles, Jolly Ranchers | 4.0 |
| Chewy & Gummy | Twizzlers, Tootsie Rolls, Gummy Bears | 3.8 |
Sharing the best American candy is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or movie nights. As Susan Lendroth said, “Candy is childhood, the best and bright moments you wish could have lasted forever.” Enjoying the best American candy with friends and family creates new moments of joy and togetherness.
The Future of American Candy
The American candy industry is changing quickly. New flavours and healthier options are becoming popular, making this an exciting time for candy lovers.
Emerging Trends and Flavours
Bold new flavours are becoming popular, and famous brands are experimenting with new tastes that make you want to try more.
- Salted caramel
- Chilli and chocolate
- Exotic fruits like dragonfruit and passionfruit
- Matcha green tea
These new flavours are attracting a new crowd of people who want something different from the usual sweets.
Health-conscious individuals are seeking healthier sweet options, and brands are responding by creating more nutritious treats. Here are a few examples:
| Hershey’s | Sugar-free chocolate bars |
| M&M’s | Reduced-sugar varieties |
| Snickers | Protein-enriched bars |
Brands are making sweets that are both tasty and healthy. An expert says, “The future of American candy is about finding a balance between fun and being good for you.”
Conclusion
In this article, we’ve explored some of the best American candy you can find. These treats have become favourites around the world. From Hershey’s chocolate to M&M’s, and from Jolly Ranchers to Starburst, the best American candy offers a wide variety of tasty options. These sweets not only taste great but also bring back happy memories. They remind us of childhood, and their charm is in how they make us happy with every bite. So, why not start a sweet journey through the best American candy? Enjoy these treats, share them with loved ones, and make new memories. Let the joy and nostalgia of the best American candy fill your moments.
FAQ
What makes American candy so special?
American candy is loved worldwide for its unique tastes and nostalgic charm. It evokes fond memories of my childhood. Its iconic brands have made it a favourite globally.
What are some of the most famous American chocolate brands?
Hershey’s, M&M’s, Reese’s, and Snickers are top American chocolate brands. They are key to American candy culture. Millions enjoy them everywhere.
What are the most popular fruity and chewy American candies?
Skittles and Starburst are favourites for their fruity tastes and chewy texture. They are loved by all ages.
Are there any iconic American hard candies?
Yes, Jolly Ranchers are a classic American hard candy. Known for their bold flavours, they’ve been loved for decades.
Where can I find the best American candy in the UK?
You can find top American candy in the UK online or in special stores. Even big retailers carry them. British candy lovers, including summer camp counsellors and wrestling fans, enjoy these treats.
Are there any health-conscious options for American candy?
Yes, there’s a trend towards healthier American candy. Now, sweets are made with natural ingredients and less sugar. This meets the demand for healthier options.
What is the future of American candy?
The future of American candy is exciting. New flavours and varieties are being introduced. Classic favourites will stay, but we’ll also see healthier and unique options.
Can you try American candy at Camp New York?
Absolutely, but you have to apply to Camp New York first, right?