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The arrival of Cadbury Creme Eggs in stores is a surefire indication that Easter, and the onset of spring, is just around the corner. With its distinct chocolate shell and sweet creamy filling, the Cadbury Creme Egg has become a quintessential symbol of Easter. Each year, more than 220 million Creme Eggs are sold in Britain, underscoring its nostalgic and widespread appeal.
The Cadbury Creme Egg stands out in the realm of confections. “There’s really nothing quite like the Cadbury Creme Egg—it’s both fascinating and delicious,” explains candy historian Jason Liebig. “For instance, while Cadbury Mini Eggs resemble other treats available throughout the year, the Creme Egg is unique. It’s largely consumed during the Easter season by many Americans, making it an exceptional treat.”
Cadbury’s origins trace back to the 1820s in England. Today, it operates under the larger umbrella of Mondelez International, a vast multinational corporation active in over 80 countries. The practice of filling chocolate eggs with cream was initiated in 1923 after Cadbury merged with Fry’s, another British chocolate manufacturer. The modern version of the Cadbury Creme Egg was introduced in the early 1960s.
In the United States, a memorable advertising campaign featuring the Cadbury Bunny has contributed significantly to the Creme Egg’s iconic status at Easter. This campaign became a cultural touchstone for many who grew up in the ’80s and ’90s, especially the 1994 version that showcased various animals auditioning for the role of the Cadbury Bunny. In a novel approach, Cadbury USA encouraged pet owners to showcase their own pets as potential candidates in 2019. Winners in this contest have included an array of pets, from an English bulldog to a one-eyed rescue cat.
Continuing its tradition of creative marketing, Cadbury made a headline-grabbing move in 2025 by unveiling the world’s largest Cadbury egg at Cadbury World, an amusement park dedicated to chocolate, located near Birmingham, England. As reported by USA Today, this record-setting confection is said to be “approximately the size of an emperor penguin.”
Despite the Creme Egg’s celebrated status as a staple Easter treat, other Cadbury products are not as commonly found in U.S. candy shops. Much of what is available is actually manufactured by Hershey, a company that has held an exclusive U.S. production license for Cadbury chocolate for many years. Hershey’s partnership includes popular Cadbury items such as Caramello and Dairy Milk bars.
The dominance of Hershey in the American chocolate market has, according to Liebig, largely confined Cadbury to a less prominent role in the chocolate landscape. Since the 1960s, Hershey has actively expanded its influence through various acquisitions and licensing deals, most notably merging with H.B. Reese Candy Company, which resulted in the acquisition of the iconic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. By the late 1980s, Hershey had solidified its position, purchasing the U.S. rights to distribute Cadbury Schweppes candies, including the coveted Cadbury Creme Egg.
“Hershey’s strategy involved acquiring potential competitors to protect and maintain its market share, securing long-term contracts that would eliminate any threat from brands like Cadbury,” Liebig emphasizes. “These agreements are enduring, ensuring that for the foreseeable future, Cadbury wouldn’t pose a significant challenge.”
While Cadbury products made in the U.K. under Mondelez remain distinct in quality, many consumers argue that the Hershey-manufactured equivalents do not measure up. Upon visiting Ireland, for example, many enthusiasts stock up on authentic Crunchies and Dairy Milk bars, noting the richer taste and creamier texture compared to their American counterparts. Expatriates and Cadbury fans often seek out these imported products at specialty stores, indicating a high demand for authentic British chocolate.
The premium pricing of U.K.-made chocolate has limited its widespread presence in the American market. Imported items like Dairy Milk bars can cost consumers significantly more in the U.S. compared to prices in the U.K. This is attributed to shipping costs and the logistical challenges of bringing products from abroad. Most Hershey chocolates are produced domestically, making them more competitively priced and readily available.
“For many consumers, the convenience and affordability of Hershey products are far more attractive than seeking out imported chocolate,” Liebig states. “In recent years, however, there has been a shift, with more consumers willing to invest in higher-end chocolates.”
Despite not being the most luxurious option on the market, Hershey recognized the potential of the Creme Egg when it took over production. While it may not surpass the quality of U.K. Cadbury chocolates, it remains a beloved treat for consumers of all ages eager to indulge in the festivities of Easter with a Creme Egg.
Source
www.eater.com