A wave of disappointment has washed over Cadbury fans following the brand’s confirmation that the Dairy Milk Winter Orange Crisp Bar will not be gracing UK shelves this festive season. This beloved chocolate bar, a delightful blend of creamy Dairy Milk and tangy orange crispy pieces, had quickly become a Christmas staple for many, with shoppers showering it with praise, calling it “delicious” and even “my favourite chocolate ever.” Its simultaneous release with the equally popular Dairy Milk Winter Mint Crisp Bar only heightened its appeal.
The news broke after a social media user inquired about the bar’s return on X (formerly Twitter), prompting a response from Cadbury that confirmed the absence of the Winter Orange Crisp Bar from the 2024 Christmas lineup. Cadbury explained their decision, citing a need to adapt their Christmas range and introduce new flavors to cater to evolving consumer preferences. While acknowledging the disappointment this will undoubtedly cause for many fans, the company offered a glimmer of hope, suggesting a possible return next year.
This isn’t the first orange-flavored casualty in Cadbury’s recent product shake-up. Earlier this year, the brand discontinued the standard Dairy Milk Orange bar, an 180g snack launched in 2021 during a surge in popularity for chocolate orange products—a trend fueled by previous releases like Cadbury’s orange Twirl (2019), Buttons and Fingers (2020), and even Tesco’s chocolate orange bourbons. This strategic decision, part of Mondelez International’s broader approach to refresh their portfolio, reflects a broader effort by the company to keep their festive range exciting and relevant.
Mondelez International, Cadbury’s parent company, released a statement emphasizing their commitment to providing consumers with a variety of delightful treats. They highlighted their extensive festive lineup for 2024, promising both new and returning favorites alongside their beloved Christmas classics, like the Dairy Milk Mint Crisp Bar. While the absence of the Winter Orange Crisp Bar leaves a void in the hearts of many chocolate enthusiasts, the company’s statement suggests that the focus is on creating a dynamic product portfolio that keeps up with changing tastes, leaving the possibility open for a future comeback. The question remains: Will the beloved Winter Orange Crisp Bar return to shelves in 2025? Only time will tell. For now, the search for a suitable replacement is on.
