Quintessentially British Sweet Treats You Need to Try
Some sweet treats are just quintessentially British. They capture the nation’s culinary heritage and a deep-rooted love for homemade goods, especially within the family home.
From nostalgic confectionary like hard-boiled sweets to timeless, freshly baked goods, British culture is delight for the senses. If you’re ready to taste a hint of the past, here are a few iconic treats to try.
Classic cakes and tarts
Baking is a cultural phenomenon. From centuries-old family recipes to popular television shows like The Great British Bake Off, sweet treats – and the secrets behind them – make an important part of life for so many people.
Here are just a few examples of British favourites to try:
- Victoria Sandwich: A wartime favourite, this is a simple sponge cake made with flour, eggs, sugar and butter. The ‘sandwich’ is formed with fresh cream and jam between each sponge.
- Trifle: Typically enjoyed as a summertime dessert, trifle includes four layers: sponge, fruits, custard, and cream. Summer berries work beautifully, but chocolate options are available too.
- Christmas Pudding: You can’t spend Christmas in Britain without trying some traditional pudding. Classic recipes include dried fruits, brandy, sugar, spices and butter. It’s rich and moreish.
- Sticky Toffee Pudding: Another decadent dessert that’s best appreciated in the cooler months of the year. Rich, date-infused sponge meets a dark, treacle sauce in this mouthwatering and very sweet classic.
Traditional biscuits and shortbread
Don’t miss out on Britain’s butter-rich treasures.
The crumbly elegance of Scottish shortbread is something that needs to be appreciated. Whether you’re visiting family, celebrating a special occasion or sending a gift, this indulgent biscuit is loved by thousands.
It’s often enjoyed with a cup of tea, so why not send shortbread biscuit gifts in a hamper with some Yorkshire Tea? With a little bit of thoughtful wrapping by hand, you could create a truly unforgettable gift.
Legendary confectionery
Britain is also home to some confectionery icons.
From the playful Jelly Babies to the enduring tins of Quality Street, there’s a story behind every classic. Jelly Babies were originally invented in a jelly bear factory, originally nicknamed ‘unclaimed babies’ when they were slightly misshapen! At the end of the Second World War, they were reintroduced as ‘Peace Babies’ by Bassetts.
Nostalgic favourites
Finally, at the turn of the 21st century, big brands responded to demand for classic sweets. New limited-edition creations combine the very best of both worlds: all the delicious new flavours with familiar designs of years gone by.
Swizzels Squashies, for example, first appeared in 2012. These sweets took the classic Drumstick flavour and gave it a soft, bitesize twist. Similarly, Lindt’s shortbread truffles blend decadent Swiss chocolate with British biscuit traditions.
Childhood sweets are now accessible for everyone, whether you’re looking for taste of the past or something completely new. Whether you send some biscuits as a gift or try new sweets during your travels, it’s part of the experience!
