In Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, marshmallow Peeps are a hallmark of the Easter celebration, capturing hearts with their vibrant colors and playful shapes. Produced by Just Born Quality Confections, a family-run candy company, these iconic treats roll off the production line in staggering numbers—about 5.5 million Peeps are crafted each day. That amounts to an astonishing 2 billion Peeps per year, enough for nearly every person in America to enjoy six of these colorful candies.
Peeps originally debuted in yellow and have since expanded their palette to include nine vibrant colors for Easter. This year, consumers can find these delightful treats in hues like pink, blue, and lavender. In addition to the classic colors, Peeps come in a delightful range of flavors, counting 14 varieties such as cookies and cream, fruit punch, and sour watermelon, showcasing a creativity that appeals to many.
Historically, crafting these marshmallow wonders wasn’t a quick task. Before the 1950s, it would take a painstaking 27 hours to make them by hand. However, Bob Born, who is often celebrated as the “Father of Peeps,” revolutionized their production by inventing a machine that reduced the time to just six minutes. This innovative approach to manufacturing is still in use today, ensuring that Peeps can be produced quickly and efficiently.
The recipe for Peeps is simple yet effective, relying on basic ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin to create their fluffy texture. This mixture is cooked and combined before being shaped into charming chicks and bunnies, which are then coated in a signature “sugar shower.” For each batch, a staggering 400 pounds of sugar is used for the colored sugars, adding that sweet finish we all recognize.
With their enduring popularity, Peeps bring nostalgia and joy to countless families during the Easter season. Whether enjoyed straight from the package or used creatively in festive recipes and crafts, these little confections are a true embodiment of holiday spirit.
