April 2, 2026

The grandson of the inventor of the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, who has publicly criticized The Hershey Company for tinkering with the classic formula in its spinoff products, appears to have gotten some sweet revenge.

Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.

The candy company has announced that it will return to using “classic milk and dark chocolate recipes” in all its Reese’s and Hershey’s products by 2027.

“If this is true, the people who deserve the credit are the loyal fans who were alarmed by what Hershey was doing,” Brad Reese told NBC News on Wednesday. “But I am seeing a lot of red flags here. I think what Hershey is trying to do here is change with PR narrative.”

In a plot twist that’s almost as sweet as the peanut butter he’s defending, Brad Reese—grandson of the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup mastermind and self-appointed chocolate watchdog—has prompted Hershey to perform a reluctant hop back to “classic” milk and dark chocolate recipes by 2027. Apparently, altering the holy grail of peanut-buttery bliss was a PR nightmare only a candy corporation could unwrap, as Brad’s viral outrage reminded everyone that when it comes to candy, legacy beats corporate chemistry every time. Hershey now finds itself in the deliciously awkward position of promising to taste better, all while Brad’s taste buds sharpen their skepticism like a kid expecting a trick but hoping for a treat. The message is clear: when you mess with the classics, you better be ready for the candy critic in the family to call foul—and, in this case, demand proof one heart-shaped mini doesn’t taste like a Valentine’s Day betrayal.

Leave a Reply