History of American Sweets

May 07, 2025

Hershey's, Snickers, Reese's and Sour Patch Kids - these American sweets are household names today. But how did these American (delicious) treats become so popular, even across the pond? 

Let’s take a sweet journey through the rich American candy world, exploring how it evolved from humble beginnings into a thriving industry filled with iconic brands, delightful flavours, and innovations.

American Candy Industry History

Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar

When it comes to milk chocolate in America, there is no one more recognisable than Milton Hershey, who, in 1893, discovered a chocolate-making machine at the World's Columbian Exposition. A year later, he was producing Hershey's Milk chocolate bars.

By selling his caramel business, Hershey dedicated his efforts to chocolate, laying the foundation of what would become the most beloved treat in American candy history. Today, Hershey’s chocolate is a global sensation and part of American culture, synonymous with comfort, quality, and classic sweetness.

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

With newfound popularity around the world, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups are always a go-to when it comes to choosing American candy. They were invented in 1928 by Harry Burnett Reese and combined two favourite flavours: peanut butter and chocolate. 

What started as a humble treat quickly turned into a bestseller. In 1963, Hershey bought the Reese Candy Company for $23.5 million, cementing Reese’s place in the American candy landscape. Products like Reese’s Pieces and new flavours continue to keep the brand fresh while maintaining its classic appeal.

Snickers

In 1930, Mars introduced the Snickers bar. A bar that took the combination candy bar to a new level. It was filled with nougat, caramel, peanuts, and milk chocolate and was a treat for people's taste buds. It wasn't long before this was a firm favourite. 

Its dense, satisfying ingredients gave it staying power, especially during wartime when energy-packed snacks were essential. To this day, Snickers remains one of the most popular candies in the world, celebrated in lunchboxes, vending machines, and chocolate gift hampers.

Jelly Beans

Jelly beans are colourful, chewy, and a sweet we all know and love - but did you know they have an interesting past too? During the Civil War, these sweets gained attention - President Ronald Reagan even declared them his favourite!

Whether you love fruity, sour, or even strawberry-flavoured jelly beans, their place in American sweets history is undeniable. 

Milky Way

The 20th century was a good time for chocolate bars. In 1923, Milky Way Bar released a chocolate-covered marshmallow nougat. 

Gummy Bears

While Gummy Bears originated in Germany, they quickly found popularity in America. Their chewy, fruity texture paved the way for newer innovations like Sour Patch Kids, a tangy favourite that combines sweetness and sour in every bite.

M&M’s

Born in 1940, M&MS were developed as a chocolate that wouldn't melt. Due to this, they became a wartime favourite and were used in army rations. 

After WWII, they evolved into the rectangular packaging we know today, and M&M’s became a key symbol of American sweets. 

From the early days of caramel and nougat to the new trends in sour, spicy, and hybrid treats, the American candy industry continues to evolve. The average American consumes nearly 22 pounds of candy annually!

At The Awesome Hamper Company, we bring the best of the American candy landscape straight to your door. From classic chocolate bars to trendy sour sweets and peanut butter cups, our extensive selection of sweet hampers and gift boxes is perfect for any occasion.

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