A survey of 2,000 adults commissioned by the English Cheesecake Company found that 64% of Britons enjoy eating foods typically considered American due to their 'comfort' factor, simplicity and convenience. The poll, conducted ahead of the company's launch of Hershey's cookies and cream and Reese's flavoured cheesecakes, reveals that American-inspired culinary trends such as peanut butter and jam (PB&J), chicken and waffles, and sweet potato casserole topped with marshmallows are gaining popularity in the UK.
Top Flavour Pairings
Salted caramel emerged as the nation's favourite flavour pairing borrowed from across the Atlantic, with cookies and cream securing a close second place. Other popular combinations include bacon with maple syrup, bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon, peanut butter and chocolate, grilled cheese with tomato soup, mac and cheese with hot dogs, PB&J, chicken and waffles with syrup, and apples with peanut butter.
New York style cheesecakes are enjoyed by 19% of Brits, while 18% appreciate the bold flavours and 15% enjoy the generous portion sizes of American-style food. An additional 14% confessed they prefer sweet breakfasts such as pancakes over traditional cooked alternatives like a full English.
Consumption Habits
Almost three in 10 (28%) Brits tuck into American dishes at least once a week, with 17% admitting they will eat more of it than normal during the World Cup. For one in ten (11%), American-style cuisine ranks as their favourite, with this figure jumping to 18% among Gen Z – making them the biggest fans of its dishes.
Nearly half (45%) believe American-inspired foods make excellent offerings for guests because they are ideal for feeding larger groups, simple to prepare, and help maintain a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Almost a third (31%) enjoy merging American-style foods with British classics, such as pairing mac 'n cheese with a Sunday roast or enjoying cheesecake following a curry.
Influence of Media
More than a third (34%) revealed their eating habits have been shaped by American TV, films or social media, with 12% of those surveyed via OnePoll.com stating they are consuming more American food now than they were five years ago. Meanwhile, 30% believe American-inspired food trends will grow in the UK over the coming years.
A spokesperson for the English Cheesecake Company, which will be handing out free cheesecakes on 2nd July at London Liverpool Street station and 3rd July at Manchester Piccadilly station, said: "American-inspired dishes are showing no signs of going away. The US does comfort food so well, it's no wonder it's here to stay in the UK. We do love an interesting taste combo and looks like sweet and salty is a clear flavour favourite."
The spokesperson added: "American and English foods combine beautifully, as the poll reveals. And it looks like our love of foods from across the pond is only speeding up."
