British biscuits have become increasingly popular in the United States. From chocolate-covered favourites to traditional tea-time classics, more Americans are discovering that UK biscuits offer a different texture, flavour balance, and sweetness level compared to typical US cookies.
If you’re searching for the top British biscuits Americans love, this guide covers the most popular choices available in the USA, why they stand out, and where to buy authentic UK versions.
Why British Biscuits Are Different from American Cookies
In the UK, what Americans call “cookies” are generally referred to as biscuits. However, British biscuits tend to:
• Be less overly sweet
• Have a firmer, crisp texture
• Pair perfectly with tea or coffee
• Feature simple, classic flavour profiles
Many Americans who try British biscuits for the first time notice they are more balanced and less sugary than standard US cookies.
1. McVitie's Digestives
Digestives are arguably the most iconic British biscuit. Slightly sweet and wheat-based, they are firm yet crumbly and ideal for dunking in tea.
Why Americans love them:
• Not overly sweet
• Great with coffee
• Available plain or chocolate-coated
• Perfect for cheesecake bases
Chocolate Digestives are especially popular among first-time buyers in the USA.
2. Hobnobs
Hobnobs are oat-based biscuits produced by McVitie’s. They have a rustic texture and a hearty, slightly nutty flavour.
Americans enjoy Hobnobs because they:
• Feel less processed
• Offer a satisfying crunch
• Come in chocolate-covered versions
They are often described as more filling than standard cookies.
3. Jammie Dodgers
Jammie Dodgers are shortbread-style sandwich biscuits filled with raspberry jam. Their distinctive heart-shaped cut-out makes them instantly recognisable.
Why they’re popular in the USA:
• Nostalgic design
• Fruity filling
• Perfect balance of crumbly and soft
They’re especially popular with families and children.
4. Custard Cream
Custard Creams are a true British classic. They consist of two vanilla-flavoured biscuits sandwiched together with a creamy filling.
Americans often describe them as:
• Comforting
• Lightly sweet
• Perfect with tea
Despite their simple ingredients, they remain one of Britain’s best-selling biscuits.
5. Shortbread
Traditional British shortbread, especially Scottish varieties, is rich, buttery, and crumbly.
Shortbread appeals to American consumers because:
• It has minimal ingredients
• It tastes indulgent but simple
• It pairs well with coffee and tea
Premium gift tins are particularly popular during holidays.
6. Bourbon Biscuit
The Bourbon Biscuit (pronounced “Boor-bon” in the UK) is a chocolate sandwich biscuit with chocolate cream filling.
Americans love it because:
• It’s chocolate inside and out
• It’s not overly sugary
• It’s ideal for dunking
It’s often compared to American chocolate sandwich cookies but with a firmer texture.
7. Rich Tea
Rich Tea biscuits are simple, lightly sweet, and designed specifically for dunking in tea.
While they may seem plain at first glance, many Americans grow to appreciate their subtle sweetness and light crunch.
Why Americans Are Buying More British Biscuits
There are several reasons British biscuits are trending in the USA:
• Increased interest in international foods
• British expat communities seeking familiar brands
• Social media taste tests and reviews
• Growing availability through UK online supermarkets
Unlike mass-produced US cookies, British biscuits often focus on texture and balance rather than intense sweetness.
Where to Buy Authentic British Biscuits in the USA
While some major supermarkets stock limited UK items, the best way to ensure authenticity is to order from a specialist British retailer that ships directly from the UK.
When shopping online, look for:
• UK-manufactured packaging
• Clear shipping and customs information
• Secure packaging for international delivery
• Long best-before dates
Buying directly from a British supplier ensures you’re getting the genuine UK recipe rather than an American reformulation.
Are British Biscuits Healthier Than American Cookies?
While biscuits are still a treat, many British varieties:
• Contain fewer artificial additives
• Are less sugary
• Use simpler ingredient lists
However, nutritional content varies by brand and flavour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular British biscuit in America?
McVitie’s Digestives, especially Chocolate Digestives, are among the most popular British biscuits purchased in the USA.
Are British biscuits less sweet than American cookies?
Generally, yes. Many British biscuits have a more balanced sweetness and less intense sugar flavour compared to typical US cookies.
Can you buy authentic British biscuits in the USA?
Yes. Specialist British food retailers ship authentic UK-made biscuits directly to American customers.
Why do British biscuits taste different?
British recipes often use different flour blends, sugar levels, and production methods, resulting in a firmer texture and milder sweetness.
Are British biscuits good for dunking in tea?
Absolutely. Many British biscuits, including Digestives, Rich Tea, and Hobnobs, are specifically designed for dunking.
How long does delivery from the UK to the USA take?
Delivery typically takes between 5 and 10 business days, depending on the retailer and customs processing times.
Final Thoughts
The top British biscuits Americans love include classics like Digestives, Hobnobs, Jammie Dodgers, Custard Creams, and traditional shortbread. Their balanced sweetness, satisfying crunch, and tea-friendly texture make them stand out from typical American cookies.
If you want the authentic experience, always choose UK-made versions shipped directly from Britain. That way, you’ll enjoy the true taste of British tea-time — no passport required.