This playful treat features marshmallow Peeps dipped in melted semisweet or milk chocolate. Using either a microwave or double boiler, the chocolate is melted until smooth and coating the Peeps evenly. Decorations like sprinkles, crushed nuts, or colored sugar can be added while the coating is still wet. After setting at room temperature or refrigeration, the treats firm up for easy serving. Variations include different chocolates or candy melts, making this a colorful, quick, and easy delight.
Last Easter, my niece Lucy decided regular Peeps were too plain and demanded we make them fancy. Three bags of leftover chocolate later, wed accidentally started a new family tradition that everyone actually looks forward to now.
The first time I tried dipping Peeps, the chocolate seized because I got impatient and turned the microwave too high. My kitchen counter looked like a tragic sticky disaster, but that mistake taught me exactly how gentle chocolate needs to be treated.
Ingredients
- Peeps marshmallow candies: Any shape works perfectly, but bunnies give you more surface area for chocolate coating
- Semisweet or milk chocolate chips: High quality chips melt more smoothly than bargain brands, making your dipping experience much easier
- Coconut oil or vegetable shortening: This secret ingredient makes the chocolate glossy and helps it set faster
- Sprinkles or crushed nuts: Add these immediately after dipping while the chocolate is still tacky
Instructions
- Prep your workspace:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper before you start melting chocolate, because once the dipping begins, everything moves fast.
- Melt the chocolate:
- Combine chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave safe bowl, heating in 30 second intervals and stirring between each until completely smooth and glossy.
- Get dipping ready:
- Insert a skewer or toothpick into the base of each Peep if you want cleaner handling, though some people just use forks.
- Coat each Peep:
- Dip each marshmallow into the melted chocolate, turn it to cover completely, then gently tap against the bowl edge to let excess drip off.
- Add decorations immediately:
- Sprinkle your toppings right away because the chocolate starts setting quickly and nothing sticks to hardened chocolate.
- Let them set:
- Leave the coated Peeps at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or pop them in the fridge for 10 to 15 minutes if you are impatient like me.
Last Christmas, I made red and green Peeps coated in white chocolate for a cookie exchange. They disappeared first, and even the chocolate snobs admitted they were completely addictive.
Choosing Your Chocolate
I have learned that chocolate chips with a higher cocoa butter percentage give you that professional looking sheen. Candy melts work perfectly too if you want bright colors without worrying about tempering.
Dipping Technique
The trick is keeping the chocolate warm but not hot while you work. If it starts thickening up, just pop it back in the microwave for ten seconds and give it a stir.
Storage And Gifting
These actually keep surprisingly well in an airtight container, though they rarely last more than two days at my house. I have started packaging them in clear cellophane bags with ribbons for unexpected gifts.
- Layer them between wax paper if you need to stack them
- They travel surprisingly well if chilled first
- Consider making extra because people will absolutely ask for seconds
There is something ridiculously satisfying about turning such a simple childhood treat into something that feels genuinely special. Happy dipping, and may your chocolate stay perfectly smooth.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of chocolate works best for coating Peeps?
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Semisweet or milk chocolate chips melt smoothly and provide a rich coating, while white or flavored chocolates offer tasty variations.
- → Can I use alternative oils for smoother chocolate?
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Coconut oil or vegetable shortening helps create a silky texture in the melted chocolate for easier dipping and setting.
- → How should I set the chocolate after dipping the Peeps?
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Let them set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to firm up the coating quickly.
- → Are there suggested decorations to add on the chocolate coating?
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Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or colored sugar enhance both texture and appearance when applied immediately after dipping.
- → How can I avoid chocolate clumping during melting?
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Melting chocolate in short intervals and stirring often, whether in a microwave or double boiler, prevents overheating and clumping.