American Christmas Candy in the UK: Peppermint Bark, Candy Cane Kisses & More (2026)
An American Christmas tastes of peppermint, peanut butter and milk chocolate in foil. Most of the seasonal favourites below never reach British shops, or only appear in small "American" aisles at a premium. Here's what Americans actually put in stockings and on the coffee table in December, and where each one fits in a UK Christmas.
Peppermint everything
Peppermint is to an American Christmas what Terry's Chocolate Orange is to a British one. Peppermint bark, a layer of dark chocolate under white chocolate scattered with crushed candy cane, is the signature treat. Ghirardelli peppermint bark squares are individually wrapped and easy to share; the Fannie May gift tin makes a ready-made present.
For something smaller, York peppermint patties are a cool mint fondant in dark chocolate, and Lindor white peppermint truffles are a limited holiday flavour with a smooth mint centre.
Hershey's Kisses in holiday flavours
Hershey's Kisses are the foil-wrapped drops that fill American candy dishes all December. The Candy Cane Kisses (white chocolate swirled with red mint) only come out for the holidays, and the Grinch Kisses are classic milk chocolate in green foil, a fun bowl-filler for a film night.
Reese's and M&M's for the stockings
Peanut butter and chocolate is the most American flavour combination there is. Reese's Miniatures in Christmas wrappers are perfect for stockings, alongside red-and-green Peanut M&M's. For a bigger statement, the 1 lb Hershey's milk chocolate bar is a classic novelty gift.
Cookies and cocoa
Pepperidge Farm Gingerman cookies are crisp little gingerbread men, good for dunking or decorating. For Christmas-morning hot chocolate, Swiss Miss peppermint hot cocoa pods fit Keurig-style machines; top with marshmallows and a candy cane.
Building an American Christmas box
A mix of the above makes a thoughtful gift for an American friend living in the UK, or for anyone who grew up watching US Christmas films. A simple formula: one peppermint bark, one bag of holiday Kisses, a Reese's or M&M's bag and one cocoa or cookie treat. Browse everything festive in our Christmas & Seasonal collection, or see gifts and hampers for ready-made options.
When to order
Delivery is free and tracked across the UK. Seasonal lines are limited editions in the US too, so order early in December to make sure your favourites arrive in time.
Frequently asked questions
What is peppermint bark?
A slab of dark chocolate topped with white chocolate and crushed candy cane, then broken into pieces. Ghirardelli's wrapped squares are one of the best-known versions.
Are Candy Cane Kisses available all year?
No. Hershey's makes them for the holiday season only, so stock is limited after Christmas.
What's a good American Christmas gift for someone in the UK?
A small box with peppermint bark, holiday Hershey's Kisses, Reese's Miniatures and a hot cocoa treat covers the flavours most Americans associate with Christmas.
