These marshmallow Peeps come dipped in melted semisweet or milk chocolate, creating a delightful and whimsical treat. The chocolate coating can be enriched with coconut oil for a silky texture and decorated with sprinkles or nuts for added flair. Simple dipping instructions ensure an easy preparation ideal for gifting or sharing. The treats set quickly at room temperature or in the fridge and can be stored for several days while maintaining their rich taste and softness.
My kitchen counter looked like a pastel explosion last spring when my niece decided we needed to upgrade the classic Easter basket staple. She stood on her step stool dipping neon bunnies into melted chocolate with a seriousness that suggested she was defusing a bomb rather than making candy.
Last Easter I made three dozen of these for a neighborhood potluck and watched grown adults debate whether the pink bunnies or yellow chicks tasted better after their chocolate bath. Someone confessed theyd never actually liked Peeps until that moment which I took as the highest compliment possible.
Ingredients
- 12 Peeps marshmallow candies: Any shape or color works but variety makes the final plate look like edible confetti
- 200 g semisweet or milk chocolate chips: Ghirardelli or Guittard melt beautifully though store brand chips will absolutely do the job
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening: This optional addition makes the chocolate coating impossibly smooth and glossy
- Sprinkles crushed nuts or colored sugar: Add these immediately after dipping while the chocolate is still tacky or theyll slide right off
Instructions
- Set up your workspace:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper making sure it sits completely flat on the counter
- Melt the chocolate base:
- Combine chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave safe bowl then heat in 30 second intervals stirring thoroughly after each until the mixture is glossy and fluid
- Prep the marshmallows:
- Insert a skewer or toothpick into the bottom of each Peep leaving enough room to grip it without your fingers getting messy
- Dip and twirl:
- Lower each Peep into the melted chocolate turning gently until fully coated then lift and let excess drip off for about ten seconds
- Add the finishing touches:
- Place coated Peeps on the prepared sheet and immediately shower with sprinkles or toppings before the chocolate sets
- Let them firm up:
- Leave at room temperature for 30 minutes or pop in the fridge for 15 minutes until the coating snaps when touched
- Serve and share:
- Carefully remove any skewers then arrange on a platter or package in clear bags tied with pastel ribbon
My friend Sarah texted me at midnight after her first batch demanding to know why nobody had told her this was a thing she could make at home. Shes now the person who brings chocolate covered everything to every gathering and I fully accept responsibility.
Making These Year Round
Peeps actually manufacture their marshmallows for Halloween Christmas and Valentines Day now which means you can absolutely make these in October with ghost shapes or February with hearts. The pastel color explosion just gets swapped for whatever seasonal palette the stores are pushing.
Getting Kids Involved
The dipping part requires supervision but the decorating is pure kid chaos in the best possible way. Set up bowls of different sprinkles and let them go to town just keep a damp cloth nearby for the inevitable sticky situations that develop.
Storage and Gifting
These keep surprisingly well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days though they rarely last that long in my house. Layer them between sheets of wax paper if you need to stack them.
- Package in clear cellophane bags with a handwritten tag for instant hostess gifts
- Try white chocolate on the pink Peeps for an Instagram worthy pastel moment
- A pinch of flaky sea salt on dark chocolate versions cuts the sweetness perfectly
These silly little chocolates have somehow become the thing people request most often maybe because they remind everyone that food can and should be fun sometimes.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chocolate works best for coating Peeps?
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Semisweet or milk chocolate chips melt smoothly and provide a balanced sweetness. Coconut oil can be added to enhance texture and shine.
- → Can I use decorated toppings on the chocolate coating?
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Yes, sprinkles, crushed nuts, or colored sugar can be sprinkled immediately after dipping for a festive look and added crunch.
- → How long should the chocolate coating set?
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Allow coated Peeps to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes until firm.
- → Are skewers necessary during dipping?
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Skewers or toothpicks make dipping easier but are optional; they also help keep fingers clean and allow for uniform coating.
- → How should coated Peeps be stored?
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Store them in an airtight container at room temperature up to 5 days to maintain freshness and texture.