The Best Gifts from America to Take to Europe in 2025
Heading to Europe soon? Lucky you! Whether it’s for a vacation, business trip, or a long-awaited visit to friends and family, one of the most thoughtful gestures you can make is bringing a gift from the USA. Not only does it show your appreciation, but it’s a chance to share a little piece of American culture with your European friends.
As an American living abroad, I myself have struggled with finding American gifts that people actually want to receive. When I moved to France for work, I did a lot of research on gifts to bring my French boyfriend and his parents.
I came across several cliché items and a lot of junk food, but it was a challenge to find something for more sophisticated tastes—I didn’t want to offer my French in-laws a cowboy hat or a box of strawberry Pop-Tarts! Over the years, I’ve become more attuned to what many Europeans enjoy receiving (and what they typically don’t) and have curated a list of my go-to gifts from America.
From gourmet foods to local goods, I’ve rounded up the best American gifts to take to Europe in 2025. These gifts will definitely surprise and delight your European friends, family and colleagues.
They also make some of the best souvenirs from the U.S., so definitely save this list if you’re visiting the States!
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American Gifts for the Host or Hostess
Honey, Jam and Spreads
When it comes to gifting, honey and jam are always a sweet choice—and American varieties are something to savor. For jam, go beyond the ordinary with varieties that aren’t easily found in Europe like Meyer lemon, boysenberry, or even pumpkin.
You might also consider unique infusions like blueberry bourbon pecan jam or spicy red pepper jelly. Seasonal jams can also make excellent gifts—think peach preserves in the summer or a tart cranberry spread come the winter.
Even if you can’t find something incredibly niche, any made-in-America gifts are sure to be appreciated.
As for honey, stick with American-made varieties like Tupelo or Mesquite, or shop at your farmer’s market and gourmet food stores to find other local varieties.
I love curating gift baskets that let the recipient sample a little bit of everything. Toss in a jar of honey and jam, and maybe throw in some gourmet crackers for an American gift basket that feels extra thoughtful.
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Chocolate and Candy
Almost everyone loves chocolate, so it makes a pretty safe gift to bring from America. While Europe is home to some of the world’s best chocolatiers, the U.S. has a rich selection of gourmet chocolate to offer your foreign friends.
Skip the Hershey’s, and go for something more distinctive, especially from small, local chocolatiers and flavors you won’t easily find overseas.
Christopher Elbow makes some of my favorite gourmet chocolates. The Kansas City-based chocolatier is known for his handcrafted, artful chocolates featuring inventive flavors like butterscotch bourbon bonbons and peanut butter and toasted corn chocolate bars.
A few years ago, I offered a small box of chocolates from Christopher Elbow to my French in-laws, and they absolutely loved it—especially some of the more unique flavors!
Chocolate-covered fruits and nuts also make a wonderful gift. Try macadamia nuts, sunflower seeds, cherries, or cranberries that are distinctly American and harder to find in Europe. These nut butter stuffed dates made in California are another unique option that I recently found.
When it comes to flavor, I would opt for dark chocolate and avoid anything too sweet. In my experience, many Europeans don’t enjoy anything overly processed and sugary.
If you really want to bring something unique to the table, don’t overlook peanut butter. While it’s a beloved staple in the U.S., it’s not something that many Europeans eat day-to-day. Peanut butter cups or other peanut butter-filled chocolates can be a real treat, especially since they’re harder to come by in many European countries.
However, be cautious—peanut butter is one of those love-it-or-hate-it foods. While Americans are obsessed with it, I've found that it can be a bit polarizing, especially with more particular tastes in places like France. So, it’s a great gift for the peanut butter fan in your life but might not be the safest option if you're unsure of their preferences.
These gourmet dark chocolate peanut butter cups or even this classic peanut brittle would make a lovely gift from LA-based chocolate shop, Compartés. They also have some incredible options that go beyond peanut butter. Definitely check them out if you’re looking for a luxury chocolate gift.
Lastly, I have to mention See’s Candies. This iconic American candy company is one that many Europeans may not be familiar with. Known for its rich, melt-in-your-mouth treats, See’s offers some delicious gifts like molasses chips and chocolate fudge.
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Popcorn and Nuts
Popcorn isn’t quite as popular in Europe as it is in the U.S., and you’ll often find it in limited varieties. At my local French supermarket, there’s just one type of popcorn, while in the States, you can find dozens of different flavors.
If you want to share some of the American snack culture, popcorn can be a unique gift from the U.S.—especially if you plan on enjoying it together!
The only caveat: popcorn is notoriously delicate and can get squished easily in your luggage, so look for something that’s well-protected, like a sturdy tin.
Whenever we visit Chicago, my family picks up Garrett Popcorn—their signature tins make a lovely gift. Plus, you can choose from a variety of flavors, though I’d be careful with the cheddar variety. I once told my French partner it was cheese-flavored, and his face said it all—definitely not what he expected!
To ensure everyone is happy, you might opt for a snack mix with popcorn and nuts.
On that note, seasoned nuts can also make one of the best gifts from America. Although Europeans may not snack as often as we Americans, they’ll gladly enjoy them during a party or, in France, at the apéro. I once brought some BBQ-flavored nuts, and we savored them during a small aperitif. My French friends loooved trying something new.
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Alcohol
If there's space in your luggage, American alcohol makes for an exceptional gift that’s sure to impress.
While American beer may not be a novelty for most Europeans, the craft beer scene in the U.S. is a whole different story. If your host enjoys a good brew, consider bringing a selection of craft beers from your region. Look for small-batch brews with unique flavor profiles, or beers made with local ingredients.
For wine lovers, bring a bottle from one of America’s renowned wine regions. California wines, in particular, are a treat—even for the French (many of them have probably never tried it!).
What about whiskey fans? The U.S. boasts a rich history of bourbon production, particularly in Kentucky. A bottle of small-batch bourbon, or perhaps a rye whiskey from a local distillery, will be an excellent gift made in the USA for any spirit aficionado.
American spirits extend beyond whiskey. Consider a bottle of smooth American craft gin, perfect for summer cocktails. And for a truly unique gift, think about regional American spirits like moonshine—just be sure to check customs regulations before you pack it!
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Cheese
Many Europeans have never tried American cheese, which makes it a fun present from the USA for the adventurous, open-minded host.
You’ll want to avoid the cheap, artificial cheeses found at most grocery stores (looking at you, Kraft Singles). Instead, head to your local cheese shop to find unique varieties and regional specialties, along with classic American cheeses like Monterey Jack and Vermont cheddar. A Midwestern favorite, cheese curds are another pick your European friends probably don’t know about.
Murray’s Cheese has an excellent selection of American cheeses too. I’d highly recommend checking it out for more ideas!
As you know, I’m all about gift baskets! Pair a few of these cheeses with some gourmet crackers, and maybe even a small jar of local honey or jam for a lovely gift!
One thing to keep in mind: many countries have restrictions on bringing dairy products, so double-check with your airline before packing your cheese. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
American Pantry Staples
There’s something special about gifting the flavors of home, especially when it means introducing your host to some unique staples of American cooking. A thoughtfully curated basket of American pantry essentials can make a thoughtful gift, especially if they enjoy cooking!
A bottle of real maple syrup is perfect for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, and even ice cream. My French partner’s family loved it on crepes too.
For sauce lovers, American barbecue sauce can be an appreciated gift. If your host is a fan of heat, a bottle of hot sauce can be a fun choice. Just keep in mind your host's spice preference and choose accordingly.
One of my friends loves hot sauce, so I brought him a bottle of the Da Bomb Beyond Insanity Hot Sauce, a famous sauce made in my hometown of Kansas City and featured on Hot Ones.
Baking lovers will appreciate a bag of pecan halves or chopped walnuts. Pecans in particular are less common overseas and will take your host’s pastries and cookies to next-level decadence.
And of course, a box of classic American pancake mix is always a hit, especially for families with kids. Ready-made mixes are harder to find in Europe, so they can make a standout gift. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a box of Bisquick either. I’ve found several more gourmet options that feel a bit more elevated.
Pair your gift with a recipe card or cookbook featuring a classic American dish that utilizes the ingredients you've chosen. This will give your hosts inspiration on using ingredients they might not be familiar with!
One final tip: when packing your foodie gifts, stick to dry goods and shelf-stable items for stress-free travel. And don’t forget to double-check any customs regulations to ensure your gift makes it to the table without any issues.
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Homemade Meal or Dessert
Looking to truly impress your European foodie friends? If you don’t want to lug a physical gift, offer to make a traditional American meal or dessert! This allows your hosts to experience unique American ingredients and enjoy authentic cuisine they may not be familiar with.
A flavorful chili and warm cornbread are perfect for a fall or winter meal. Buttery drop biscuits and gravy make a delicious breakfast. Apple pie, peach cobbler, or chocolate chip cookies are just a few dessert ideas.
Ensure you have the necessary equipment to prepare your dish, as measuring cups may not be readily available across the pond. Certain ingredients are harder to find in Europe too (I can never find brown sugar, pumpkin purée, or buttermilk here in France). Be sure to double-check your recipe so that you know what you need to bring and what you can buy abroad.
You can also make your meal at home and bring it with you. When visiting my French friends, I brought along a batch of homemade puppy chow, and they adored it!
Coffee Table Book
Another thoughtful American gift is a coffee table book. Not only can it look beautiful in your host’s home, but it’s also a great way to share about the U.S. If you know your host's interests, choose a book that caters to them. For a history buff, a book on the American West might be a hit, while a music lover would appreciate a book on the rise of jazz music.
America has some breathtaking scenery. You might choose a book highlighting the National Parks, the coastlines of California, or the fall foliage of New England. Explore the regional cuisines of America with a coffee table book featuring the fresh seafood of the Pacific Northwest or the rich barbecue traditions of the South.
Is your host an art enthusiast? Consider a book highlighting the works of renowned American artists like Andy Warhol or Georgia O'Keeffe. For the fashion lover, a coffee table book showcasing iconic American fashion trends or the works of celebrated American designers like Ralph Lauren or Tom Ford would be a stylish choice.
Books on iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge or the Statue of Liberty also make lovely gifts. While major cities like New York and Los Angeles are well-known, delve deeper into the heart of America with a book exploring the beauty and culture of lesser-known regions.
This is a great opportunity to check out books on your own city, state or region too! Obviously, something that hits close to home will be extra special.
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Sports Gear
I wasn’t planning to include this one at first, because in my experience, most Europeans don’t care about American sports. However, in recent years, I’ve been spotting more and more Europeans wearing American sports gear (and no, I’m not just talking about those infamous NY baseball caps).
Last year, I went to the NFL game in Frankfurt, Germany, and it was surprising to see all of the Europeans who took an interest in American football, and it seems to be getting more popular over here. So if you know a sports fan, a jersey, hat or collectible item could be a winning gift idea and one of the best USA gifts for foreigners who are interested in American culture.
Just a heads-up: this one’s only a good pick if they’re already a fan or curious about the sport. Otherwise, it might just end up at the back of their closet.
Local Products
Move beyond the typical American gifts for foreigners like Statue of Liberty replicas and generic souvenirs. The United States is a melting pot of cultures, so why not showcase the unique flavor of your hometown with your gift?
Look for handcrafted American-made gifts and local specialties created by artisans in your city or region. Not only do they make thoughtful gifts, but they also support small businesses!
Most foreigners are familiar with the big cities like New York and Los Angeles. Bringing a local treat or product introduces them to a different side of America they may not have known about.
I used this approach for my boyfriend's grandpa who's from Paris. Since I'm from Kansas City, nicknamed the "Paris of the Plains," I brought him a small dish towel with that inscription. It became a fun way to connect our two cities through a little piece of home.
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Finding the right present for someone in another country can be tricky, but with these tips and ideas in mind, I’m sure you’ll discover something special from the U.S. that will leave a lasting impression. And who knows, your gift might even inspire your foreign friends and family to plan their own American adventure someday.
While this guide focuses on American gifts for Europeans, these ideas are perfect for anyone you’re visiting abroad. Just be sure to research local customs and consider any cultural preferences or taboos when choosing your gift.
If you're flying, keep the size and weight of your souvenirs in mind. Those bulky items can be a hassle to transport.
What are your favorite gifts from America to take to Europe? Let me know in the comments below.
