This playful sweet features colorful marshmallow Peeps dipped in melted semisweet or milk chocolate, creating a rich, glossy coating. Simply microwave or double-boil chocolate with a bit of coconut oil for smoothness, then dip each Peep and decorate if desired. Let them set at room temperature or chill briefly for a firm finish. Perfect as a simple, whimsical treat for holidays or casual snacking.
Variations include using different chocolate types or adding toppings like sprinkles or crushed nuts to enhance texture and visual appeal. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness for several days.
My daughter discovered chocolate covered Peeps at a spring festival last year and came home determined to recreate them. We ended up with chocolate everywhere and marshmallow on our cheeks, but those first imperfect attempts became our Easter tradition. Now I look forward to that weekend mess as much as she does.
Last spring, my neighbor saw us making these through the kitchen window and came over with her own marshmallow chicks. We ended up having an impromptu chocolate dipping party with three families at my counter. Everyone left with sticky fingers and boxes of their own creations.
Ingredients
- 12 Peeps marshmallow candies: Any shape or color works, but the classic chicks show off the chocolate coating beautifully
- 200 g semisweet or milk chocolate chips: I prefer semisweet to balance the marshmallow sweetness, but milk chocolate makes them extra indulgent
- 1 tbsp coconut oil: This little trick makes the chocolate coating smoother and helps it set faster
- Sprinkles or decorations: Use whatever you have on hand, they add such a festive touch
Instructions
- Prep your workspace:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper before you start melting anything
- Melt the chocolate:
- Microwave the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30 second bursts, stirring each time until completely smooth
- Get your dipping station ready:
- Insert a skewer into the base of each Peep, or use a fork if you prefer not to make holes
- Dip and coat:
- Lower each Peep into the melted chocolate, turning gently to cover completely, then let the excess drip off
- Add decorations immediately:
- The chocolate sets fast, so work quickly with sprinkles, nuts, or colored sugar while the coating is still wet
- Let them set:
- Leave them at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes until the chocolate is firm
My aunt tried these last year and called me the next day demanding the recipe. She made three batches for her book club and said the women could not stop talking about them. Apparently grown adults get just as excited about chocolate dipped marshmallows as kindergarteners.
Chocolate Selection Tips
I have learned through trial and error that white chocolate sets softer than dark or milk varieties. If you are using white chocolate chips, add an extra half teaspoon of coconut oil and refrigerate the finished Peeps. Dark chocolate produces the most dramatic visual contrast against the colored marshmallow.
Dipping Techniques
After dozens of batches, I have settled on holding the skewer at a 45 degree angle and rotating the Peep slowly as it comes out of the chocolate. This creates an even coating without those frustrating bare patches that happen when you rush. Gently tap the skewer against the bowl rim to remove excess chocolate.
Packaging And Gifting
These make the most adorable gifts, especially during spring holidays. I nestle them in mini cupcake liners inside small boxes or clear treat bags. The parchment paper is crucial for storage since these will stick to everything once the chocolate begins to soften slightly.
- Tie colorful ribbon around treat bags for an instant party favor
- Layer them between wax paper if you need to stack them in a container
- Make extras because people will absolutely ask for seconds
Whether you make them for Easter or just a random Tuesday, these chocolate covered Peeps never fail to bring smiles. Happy chocolate dipping.
Recipe FAQs
- → What chocolate works best for coating?
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Semisweet or milk chocolate provides a smooth, creamy coating, but dark or white chocolate can also be used for varied flavors.
- → How can I ensure a smooth chocolate coating?
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Adding a tablespoon of coconut oil when melting the chocolate helps achieve a glossy, smooth texture ideal for dipping.
- → Can I decorate the coated Peeps?
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Yes, while the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle crushed nuts, colored sugar, or sprinkles for added texture and color.
- → What’s the best way to melt chocolate?
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Microwave in short 30-second bursts stirring in between, or melt gently over a double boiler to avoid burning.
- → How long should the coated Peeps set?
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Let them rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes until the chocolate firms up.
- → How should these treats be stored?
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Keep in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve freshness for up to 5 days.