Introduction :
Spring is in the air, and you know what that means—it’s time for bright colors, blooming flowers, and of course, all the sweet treats that come with the season! One of the most iconic Easter candies is the marshmallow Peep, with its fluffy texture and eye-catching colors. Whether you love them straight out of the package or prefer them slightly melted, Peeps bring a nostalgic charm that screams springtime fun.
But what if we told you there’s an even better way to enjoy Peeps? Introducing Peeps Candy Bars—a ridiculously gooey, ultra-fudgy, and delightfully colorful treat that takes these marshmallow favorites to the next level! These bars are a perfect way to use up any leftover Peeps after Easter (if you somehow have any left!) and transform them into an irresistible dessert that will have everyone coming back for more.
The best part? This recipe is unbelievably easy! With just four simple ingredients—a box of chocolate cake mix, eggs, oil, and Peeps—you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes. The chocolatey base is rich and chewy, the melted Peeps create a plush marshmallow layer, and the speckled Easter M&Ms add the perfect crunchy, candy-coated finish. It’s a true springtime dream dessert!
Perfect for Easter gatherings, potlucks, or just a fun baking session with the family, these Peeps Candy Bars will quickly become a seasonal favorite. They’re playful, eye-catching, and absolutely delicious. So grab those extra Peeps, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these sweet, gooey, pastel-colored delights—because Easter just got a whole lot tastier! 🐣💖
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate fun and festive spring dessert, Peeps Candy Bars are the answer! These bars combine the rich, chocolatey goodness of a brownie-like base with the gooey, melty sweetness of marshmallow Peeps—all topped off with colorful, crunchy M&Ms. Whether you need a quick treat for an Easter party or just want to put leftover Peeps to good use, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.
1. Quick & Easy to Make
You don’t need to be a professional baker to make these bars! With only four ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy parents, last-minute gatherings, or anyone who loves simple yet delicious homemade treats. From start to finish, you’ll have a pan of these gooey chocolate bars ready in just 25 minutes!
2. The Perfect Use for Leftover Peeps
Every year, Peeps seem to multiply in Easter baskets, and while they’re fun to snack on, sometimes you need a creative way to use them up. This recipe takes those extra Peeps and turns them into a melt-in-your-mouth marshmallow topping, making every bite soft, sweet, and utterly delicious.
3. Fun, Festive, and Kid-Friendly
These bars are a visual delight, with their bright pink Peeps and speckled pastel M&Ms. They make the perfect Easter dessert, spring bake sale treat, or just a fun afternoon baking activity with the kids. Plus, who doesn’t love a dessert that looks as good as it tastes?
4. A Flavor & Texture Lover’s Dream
You get fudgy, chewy, gooey, and crunchy all in one bite—the perfect balance of textures! The combination of rich chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and crispy candy coating makes these bars completely irresistible.
Make them once, and they’ll become a springtime tradition in your kitchen!
Ingredients List: Everything You Need for the Ultimate Peeps Candy Bars
One of the best things about Peeps Candy Bars is how simple and fuss-free they are to make. With just four basic ingredients, you can whip up a deliciously gooey, chocolatey, and colorful treat in no time. Whether you’re using leftover Peeps from Easter or grabbing a fresh batch, these bars are guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite. Here’s everything you’ll need:
1. Chocolate Cake Mix (1 Box)
- The base of these candy bars starts with a boxed chocolate cake mix, which makes the process super easy while giving the bars a rich, fudgy texture.
- You can use any brand you love—classic chocolate, devil’s food, or even triple chocolate for an extra indulgent twist!
2. Eggs (2 Large)
- Eggs help bind the cake mix together, giving the bars their perfect chewy and soft consistency.
3. Oil (½ Cup)
- A little oil ensures these bars stay moist and fudgy instead of dry and crumbly.
- You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted butter for a richer flavor.
4. Peeps Marshmallow Candy (20-24 Peeps)
- The star ingredient! These iconic, fluffy, marshmallow Peeps melt into a gooey, sweet topping that makes these bars extra special.
- You can use chicks or bunnies, and any color you prefer!
5. Speckled Easter M&Ms (1 Cup)
- For a festive crunch, sprinkle these pastel-colored, candy-coated chocolates over the top.
- They add extra sweetness, texture, and a pop of color to each bite!
That’s it! With just these five simple ingredients, you’re ready to bake a batch of Peeps Candy Bars that will steal the show at any spring celebration. 🌸🐣🍫
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Peeps Candy Bars
Making Peeps Candy Bars is as easy as it gets! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a rich, fudgy, and gooey dessert that’s packed with springtime flavor. Follow this easy step-by-step guide, and get ready for a deliciously festive treat!
1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, making sure the edges extend over the sides—this will make it easier to lift the bars out later. Lightly grease the foil with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Chocolate Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 box of chocolate cake mix, 2 eggs, and ½ cup of oil. Stir until everything is well blended and forms a thick batter. Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan.
3. Bake the Base
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. The base won’t be fully cooked yet, but that’s okay—it will continue baking after we add the toppings!
4. Add the Peeps Marshmallows
While the bars are baking, chop the Peeps into bite-sized pieces. Once the 10 minutes are up, quickly sprinkle the chopped Peeps evenly over the partially baked bars.
5. Bake Again
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 5-6 minutes, or until the Peeps are puffy and slightly golden on top. Be careful not to let them fully brown—you want them soft and gooey!
6. Add the M&Ms
Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle 1 cup of speckled Easter M&Ms over the warm Peeps.
7. Cool & Cut
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. Use a damp knife to prevent the sticky marshmallow from sticking.
Now, serve and enjoy these fun, festive, and gooey Peeps Candy Bars! 🐣🍫
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Ultimate Peeps Candy Bars
Making Peeps Candy Bars is simple, fun, and perfect for all ages. With a few basic ingredients and just 25 minutes, you’ll have a fudgy, gooey, and colorful treat that’s ideal for Easter and spring celebrations. Follow these easy steps to bring this festive dessert to life!
1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, extending the edges over the sides.
- Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Chocolate Base
- In a large bowl, mix 1 box of chocolate cake mix, 2 eggs, and ½ cup of oil.
- Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
3. Bake the Base
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10 minutes.
- The base will be slightly underbaked—this is normal!
4. Add the Peeps Marshmallows
- While the base bakes, chop 20-24 Peeps into bite-sized pieces.
- Remove the pan from the oven and quickly sprinkle the chopped Peeps over the bars.
5. Bake Again
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 5-6 more minutes, or until the Peeps are soft and slightly golden (not fully toasted).
6. Add the M&Ms
- Take the pan out of the oven and immediately sprinkle 1 cup of Easter M&Ms over the warm Peeps layer.
7. Cool & Slice
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting.
- Use a damp knife to prevent the marshmallow from sticking.
Now you’re ready to enjoy these ooey-gooey, chocolatey Peeps Candy Bars! 🐣🍫
Pro Tips for Success: Make Your Peeps Candy Bars Even Better
Want to perfect your Peeps Candy Bars? Here are some expert tips to ensure your bars turn out extra gooey, colorful, and delicious every time!
1. Don’t Overbake the Peeps
- Bake them just until they puff up and get slightly golden on top.
- Overbaking can make them too crispy instead of soft and gooey.
2. Use a Damp Knife for Cutting
- Marshmallow can be super sticky, making it tough to cut.
- Lightly dampen your knife before slicing to get clean, neat squares.
3. Switch Up the Cake Mix
- Chocolate is classic, but you can use:
- Funfetti cake mix for a birthday cake twist.
- Yellow cake mix for a softer, vanilla flavor.
- Brownie mix for a super fudgy version!
4. Experiment with Peeps Colors & Shapes
- Use a mix of Peeps bunnies and chicks for a fun look.
- Try different colors to match any holiday or celebration.
5. Store the Bars Properly
- Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Avoid refrigerating—cold marshmallow can become too firm.
Follow these simple tricks, and your Peeps Candy Bars will be fluffy, gooey, and perfect every single time! 🌸🐥