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Valentine's Day is your chance to show your loved ones how much you care about them through sharing gifts and spending time with that special someone. But the day of love doesn't just apply to couples; you can spend it with friends and family members too. So, with that in mind, it's time to decide how you'll celebrate Valentine's Day this year. Sure, you could go for the traditional flowers or chocolate, but why not make your own special treats?

In this post, we'll reveal some homemade treats that will send a cupid's arrow straight to the hearts of your recipients.

Homemade Chocolates

Homemade chocolates take one of the UK's favourite treats and give them a more sentimental appeal. Better still, you don't have to be a master chocolatier to create delicious homemade treats. All you need is some melted chocolate, moulds (or an ice cube tray) and sprinkles or other decorations of your choice. You can then combine milk and white chocolate to create a marble effect or add a swirl of peanut butter for a deliciously indulgent treat.

Heart-Shaped Boxes

If you're looking for a way to show your loved ones that you've gone the extra mile, why not create some heart-shaped boxes filled with their favourite sweets? It's a great way to keep everything organised and means that they can reuse the box once all of the goodies have been eaten.

You'll need some sturdy paper or card, a craft knife and glue or double-sided tape. Once you've cut out your template, fold the sides of each box into place and secure with either glue or tape. Add some ribbon for decoration, and you're done!

As it's Valentine's Day, we recommend adding some of those delicious Haribo Hearts, which are the perfect mixture of jelly sweet and foam.

You can also include chocolates, jelly lips, strawberry creams, and don't forget the infamous Love Hearts that come with their special message.

Personalised Jars

Another great way to show someone how much you care is by filling a jar full of their favourite treats. Not only does this take little effort on your part, but it also means that they can reuse the jar once all of the goodies have been eaten.

If you're unsure what their favourites are, then a simple Google search will help you out. You could even get creative and make your labels with a personalised message.

One of the easiest and most popular options is to add some sweets or chocolate buttons in a jar, along with other treats that you think they might enjoy. If your loved one has a sweet tooth, then we recommend adding mini Mars bars and Twix fingers for an indulgent treat.

Chocolate, Mallow & Beans Pizza

If you've ever tried the delicious combination of pizza bread and chocolate, you'll know that the bread and chocolate mix perfectly. Well, how about making your own for the ultimate treat?

It's straightforward, and all you need is a ready-made pizza base. Just melt your chosen chocolate, and spread it evenly across the base (as you would with tomato sauce).

Then, take some marshmallows and other toppings of your choice, and place them onto the pizza.

If you don't want to bake the pizza or prefer to avoid bread altogether, you can buy a ready-made chocolate, mallow and beans pizza, which tastes delicious and is ideal for sharing this Valentine's Day.

One of the simplest and most popular Valentine's Day treats are chocolate strawberries. All you need is a punnet of fresh strawberries, some melted chocolate and something to dip them in (we recommend chopped nuts or desiccated coconut).

Simply wash your strawberries, then melt your chosen chocolate in a bowl over simmering water. Dip your strawberries into the melted chocolate until they're coated, then place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with your chosen toppings and refrigerate for around 30 minutes or until set.

They make a great addition to any celebration feast and can easily be made ahead of time if you're running short on time.

There's no better way to celebrate a special occasion than with a glass of bubbly. Prosecco is a popular choice because it offers a luxurious appeal but isn't anywhere near as expensive as traditional champagne.

If you're looking to add a little more excitement, why not make some chocolate truffles before the big day? Another popular option is adding rose petals or coloured sugar sprinkles.

Many people believe that chocolate truffles are difficult to make - but they're surprisingly simple (as long as you know what you're doing).

If you need some help along the way, use this great recipe from Sally's Addiction.

Something nostalgic about pick and mix sweets makes them ideal for adults and children alike. There are so many great sweets available, so you can do anything you like.

For example, why not put together a retro sweet bag full of bonbons and other old fashioned delights? Jelly sweets are also brilliant because you can combine a mixture of favourites, including foam eggs, cola bottles and jelly snakes.

You can also take advantage of the low price of wholesale sweets and make it a special day for everyone around you. Just grab some bags, write a nice message on them, and you have a cost-effective but very thoughtful Valentine's treat.

Are you planning a special dinner for your loved one this year? How about serving a delightful mousse for dessert? You can choose between a range of flavours, including chocolate, strawberry, or go for something more exotic like butterscotch.

Add some chocolates to the top of the mousse, and you've got a thoughtful dessert that won't break the bank.

The Wrap Up

Making Valentine's Day special this year doesn't have to be difficult, especially when you can use any gift ideas above. Remember, for most people, it's the thought that counts and taking some time to create a gift will show your loved ones you genuinely care.

At Appleton Sweets, we love confectionery, and you can find discount prices on all of our high-quality sweets from international brands. Please feel free to browse our site and contact us with any questions.

You can also check out our guide on making chocolate gift jars.

Do you have a sweet tooth? If so, then this post is for you! The Appleton Sweets team has been hard at work, trying our entire range to decide which sweets are the best in the UK for sweet-toothed confectionery fans.

After hours of research and testing (what can we say, it's a tough job, but someone's got to do it!), we're ready to reveal our ultimate sweets.

Whether you've got a sweet tooth or you know someone else who has, this list will give you some excellent ideas about which confectionery to buy.

So, let's dive straight in.

If you're looking for something classic, nothing beats a bag of hard-boiled sweets. They're probably the most famous British sweets and go back decades, with flavours such as lemon, lime and orange.

However, if you're looking for something oh so sweet, we recommend trying rhubarb and custard. Not only are hard-boiled sweets packed with delicious flavours, but the contrast between fruit and custard is a real winner.

Is there anything better than jelly babies? These babies are a firm favourite with people of all ages, and for a good reason! They're soft, squidgy and full of flavour - perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Maynard's is probably the most famous confectionery company that makes jelly babies, and they focus on traditional flavours, such as strawberry, orange, blackcurrant and lemon.

However, if you're looking for something a bit more exciting, there are cola flavoured jelly babies, and Haribo has a delicious collection of tropical flavoured sweets, including kiwi flavoured jelly babies.

These little bears are always a favourite with kids (and adults too!) and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. They're soft, chewy and come in a range of different flavours, such as strawberry, raspberry and lemon and pineapple.

Plus, they're the ideal size for popping into your mouth without feeling too guilty! The USA has an awesome gummy bear collection, including Love Hearts bears or Sour Gummy Bears from Haribo.

Watch this space because they might make an appearance on our website in the future.

Marshmallows are so fluffy and soft, but what makes them even better is that they're not overpowering. Instead, there's a more subtle sweetness, which makes them irresistibly moreish.

They're the perfect afternoon snack to accompany a cup of tea or coffee! Also, you can use marshmallow sweets in desserts to give them an extra kick of sweetness without making them taste too sickly.

If you're feeling adventurous, then why not pay homage to the USA and make your very own s'mores.

Candy Floss

If you've never had candy floss before then, it's time to try this sugary treat! We all remember having candy floss at the funfair as kids (and maybe still do), but did you know that there are loads of different types of candy floss, including raspberry and strawberry?

The best thing about candy floss is that it's not too sweet. It melts in your mouth and gives you a lovely sugary rush without making your teeth feel like they're going to fall out.

While candy floss might not technically count as a 'sweet', it's definitely sugary and perfect for a cheeky treat, which is why it's on this list.

Parma violets are like Marmite; you either love them or hate them. It ultimately depends on how sweet you want to go because these fizzy purple candies will definitely push your boundaries.

However, if you're looking for something really sweet, parma violets are perfect. Plus, they always bring back memories of being a kid. They come in small packets, or you can choose the giant versions for the ultimate taste bud explosion.

Turkish Delight

If you want to transport yourself to the Middle East without leaving your home, then Turkish delight is the perfect way to do it. These little cubes of sweetness are flavoured with rose water and pistachios, making them a real delicacy.

They're not as sickly sweet as some of the other sweets on this list, but they're moreish and will leave you wanting more. Plus, they come in various flavours, such as chocolate and strawberry.

Perhaps the most famous Turkish Delight treat in the UK is Fry's. Cadbury also released its own twist on the traditional treat, but Fry's reigns supreme.

These little guys are the perfect size for popping into your mouth, and they come in a range of different flavours, such as grape, strawberry and orange. They're also sour (but not too sour), making them irresistible.

Nerds candy is made by the same company that makes Gobstoppers, so you can rest assured that they're full of flavour. You might remember Dweebs too, but they never managed to make an impact like Nerds.

Millions are a classic UK sweet that never seems to go out of fashion. They come in a range of different flavours, such as strawberry, lemon and lime, blackcurrant and apple.

They're made by Golden Casket, one of the most popular sweet manufacturers in the UK. Millions always remind us of being kids again, and the company continues to add exciting flavours to the mix.

Fan favourites include grape and bubblegum (which is delicious).

Chocolate raisins are the perfect way to enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up. They're not too sickly, and they come in a small bag or tin, which makes them ideal for carrying around with you when you need a quick snack fix.

On top of that, they make great snacks at home because kids love them. They're a classic sweet that never seems to go out of fashion either, so you can rest assured that they'll always be around!

The Wrap Up

Well, there you have it; a list of sweets for your sweet tooth. There are some great options on this list that are sure to please, so why not head over to the Appleton Sweets website can check out our low wholesale prices.

Some of the sweets we mentioned are available on our website now, while others might make an appearance in the future - so watch this space!

There's something special about retro sweets. Not only are they delicious, but they also remind us of a different time - which might not have included the internet, but let's face it, those days were more straightforward.

In this post, we're going to dive deep into the world of retro sweets and see which UK favourites can stand the test of time.

Where Do Sweets Come From?

Since the dawn of time, human beings have enjoyed a sweet treat, and honey was a big part of life for the Romans. The Tudors were particularly fond of indulging themselves with honey and sugared almonds (just take a look at Henry VIII!)

While there's no doubt that sweets evolved through the years, we can't ignore how essential the Victorians were to their growth. The Industrial Revolution introduced steam trains, factories and the idea of mass production to the general public - and it gave inventors a way to innovate without the costs being too high.

Traditional boiled sweets first appeared in the 1820s, while seaside rock took an extra ten years to come to the public's attention. Since then, we've seen advances in technology that have led to a range of delicious types of confectionery, including:

• Chewing Gum
• Chocolate
• Haribo
• Chewy Sweets

So, let's take a look at the UK's favourite retro sweets from the 1940s onwards.

The 1940's

Yes, the 1940s weren't easy for anyone. Britain was at war for the second time, and people had to deal with rations. But one thing didn't change; everyone loved a cheeky treat. So, which retro sweets were a favourite among the 1940's - and can you still buy them today?

Milk Chocolate Toffees

The perfect mix of milk chocolate and delicious toffee flavours, a bag of these always went down a treat. While we've progressed to more exotic toffee and chocolate pairings today, you can still buy a pack of these classics at your local retro sweet shop.

Mint Imperials

Mint Imperials are another classic British sweet that was incredibly popular in the 1940s. These small, round sweets have a refreshing mint flavour, and they're still available to buy today.

In fact, Tilley's is one of the oldest confectioners in the UK and still sell their delicious sweets across the UK. So, get your hands on Tilley's sweets today.

The 1950's

The 1950s was all about Rock and Roll, Elvis and a great year for cars. OK, while most people think about the USA during this decade, the UK still had plenty to offer - including its selection of sweets.

One of the OG's of Rowntree's impressive roster of sweets, fruit gums are known for their small size and chewy texture. The colours include strawberry, lime, lemon and orange and are still available today.

While Barratt introduced the infamous Dip Dab in the 1940s, it didn't become a favourite until the following decade. It's still incredibly cheap to buy and had retained its tongue-tingling goodness decades later.

The 1960's

While the 1960s was a decade that arguably saw substantial social changes, it wasn't all bad. The Beatles and Rolling Stones were enjoying success (and making us want to dance), and we also got some fantastic films like Mary Poppins and of course - James Bond. But what about our retro sweets?

BonBons are small, round sweets with a fruity flavour, and they're famous for their hard outer shell. They were one of the most popular types of confectionery in the 1960's - but you can still buy them today.

Love Hearts are another famous sweet that's stood the test of time. You probably gave them to your childhood crush on Valentine's Day - and perhaps your parents did the same! Love Hearts were invented in 1954, but in the '60s became a must-have sweet.

The 1970's

Next, we're heading to the 1970's - a decade that saw the UK through some huge changes. While we were still in love with Mars bars and Fred Dibnah, there was something else on offer for those who fancied a sugar buzz - jelly babies!

These giant cola bottles were a popular choice for those who wanted something sweet and refreshing. They're made with authentic coke flavour and are still available to buy today.

Flying Saucers were a popular choice for sweet lovers in the 1970's. They're made with rice paper and have a sherbet filling, so kids especially loved the intense flavours.

The 1980's

Finally, we've reached our last decade of confectionery treats! The '80s saw everything from leg warmers to shoulder pads - and of course, there was plenty of delicious confectionery available.

Nerds are small, colourful sweets that have a sweet and sour flavour. They were must-haves in the 1980s and are still available today. You might remember Dweebs too, but they didn't quite manage to make an impression on sweet lovers.

Refreshers are another retro sweet that was hugely popular in the '80s. They're made with sherbet and come in various colours and flavours. They're still available today, so get your hands on a pack and enjoy the intense flavours.

Last but not least, we have Skittles. Yes, people first got to taste the rainbow in the mid-1970s, but Skittles didn't become a favourite until the 1980s, and people certainly loved them!

Years later, people of all ages still enjoy a bag of Skittles, and with sour blends available, it's clear this rainbow isn't going anywhere.

The Wrap Up

Well, there you have it, the UK's favourite retro sweets from the 1940's to the 1980s. Sweets continue to be a popular part of our lives, and there's nothing better than relaxing in front of your favourite TV show with a bag full of goodies.

With so many delicious sweets on offer, now all you have to do is choose your favourites and enjoy. Better still, why not have a retro sweet night with your friends?

If you enjoyed reading this post, why not check out our guide on the best sweets for movie night. You can read it here.

There are lots of reasons to try plant-based candy. The Vegan Society states that it's better for the environment and being kinder to animals and healthier than ordinary confectionery.

Plant-based candy also has a lower carbon footprint because vegan products don't need animal feed or fertiliser, which uses up valuable resources and decreases soil fertility.

There are many food allergies and intolerances that people suffer from, but one of the most misunderstood is gluten. For individuals with celiac disease, consuming gluten products can cause a host of issues, which is why the only way to improve their symptoms is to consume a gluten-free diet.

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley, which means sufferers cannot consume most bread or wheat products, but some cereals, sauces and sweets might also contain the protein.

It's no secret that we all love a sweet treat, and there's certainly plenty to choose from. Whether it's your favourite chocolate bar, a bag of sweets or a delicious cake, people around the UK are spoiled for choice.

While some people believe confectionery products are mainly chocolate and sweets, the term encompasses a range of delicious treats. There's also a rich and exciting history that goes back a lot further than you might think.

There's nothing like a movie night, is there? Years ago, we'd head to Blockbuster Video and pick a selection of films, but now we're spoiled for choice. Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV and many more streaming apps make it possible to throw an impromptu film fest whenever we feel like it.

One thing that does require a lot of planning is the food you'll serve when you host a movie night. There are plenty of choices available, from pizzas to popcorn and candy, but which sweets make the perfect film food?

When it comes to eating healthily, we're always looking for shortcuts. Let's face it, nobody wants to choose carrot sticks over a bar of chocolate, and living by the everything in moderation rule is the best way to maintain a healthy weight without giving up your favourite treats.

With so many interesting new snacks becoming available all the time, there's never been a better time to experiment with healthy foods. However, chocolate is one of those things that few people want to give up - so it's only natural to search for healthy ways to enjoy the UK's favourite treat.

A few years ago, if you decided to go vegan, you knew it would be a big commitment. It was almost impossible to eat at restaurants, and the selection of foods wasn't anything to write home about. But today, vegans are living their best possible life.

Climate change and the global effort to reduce the impact we have on our planet means vegans everywhere can embrace an ethical lifestyle and enjoy their favourite foods.

What is it about marshmallows that makes them so irresistible? Is it their fluffy texture? Or the subtle yet delicious taste? How about the way they go perfectly with melted chocolate?

Whatever your reason for loving marshmallows is, you'll be happy to learn that you can make them in the comfort of your own home.

Yes, if you're looking for the perfect way to show someone you care, this post will reveal how to make the best marshmallows.

Christmas is fast approaching, and it's time to get your advent calendar, switch the flip flops for fluffy socks and dream of waking up to a snow-filled garden on the 25th of December. With all of the excitement leading up to the big day, it's understandable that you might leave your gifts to the last minute - but getting them early can save you a lot of hassle.

In this post, we'll look at some excellent Christmas gifts and ideas that anyone will love. Whether you want to go the DIY route, add a touch of luxury to your loved one's life or get up close and personal, we've got some fantastic ideas.

On Thursday 25th November, households across America will gather to celebrate a day of thanks. The Thanksgiving holiday celebrates a feast shared by English pilgrims and Native American tribes in 1621, with families today using the day to have a meal with their loved ones and share everything they’re thankful for. 

While Thanksgiving isn’t one of the English holidays, some people like to celebrate it because it doesn’t involve British land. However, many schools celebrate the message of sharing resources by getting involved with the harvest festival.