Easter is a time of joy, vibrant colors, and, of course, an abundance of sweets! Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just looking to add a little festive cheer to your home, these Peep Bars are sure to be a hit. Combining the rich taste of chocolate cake with the playful sweetness of Peeps and M&Ms, this recipe is not only delicious but also a visual treat. Here’s how you can make these delightful treats to brighten your Easter celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box of chocolate cake mix for that deep, chocolaty base we all love.
- 2 eggs to bind the mixture perfectly.
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil for a moist and tender texture.
- 24 Peeps, those adorable marshmallow chicks or bunnies, ready to melt in your mouth.
- 2 cups of M&Ms, with Easter colors to add a pop of festive cheer.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Prep Your Station: Kick off your baking adventure by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (about 175°C). Grab a 9×13 baking pan, line it with tin foil for easy cleanup, and give it a light greasing. This setup is your canvas for the yummy masterpiece you’re about to create.
2. Mix It Up: In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, and oil. You’ll notice the mixture is thick and rich – a promise of the deliciousness to come. Stir them together until you have a smooth batter.
3. Bake the Base: Transfer your chocolate mixture into the prepared pan, pressing it down evenly to cover the bottom. Slide it into the oven for a quick bake of 12 minutes. This base layer sets the stage for our colorful toppings.
4. Add a Layer of Peeps: While the base gets its bake on, take your Peeps and chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. After the base has baked for 12 minutes, pull it out quickly (but carefully!) and sprinkle your chopped Peeps across the top. They’re about to get a slight tan in the oven!
5. The Final Bake: Pop the pan back into the oven for another 5-6 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’re looking for the moment when the marshmallows start to toast to a light golden brown – it’s a fine line between perfectly toasted and overdone.
6. Top with M&Ms: Once out of the oven, it’s time to make it rain M&Ms! Sprinkle them evenly over the warm, gooey marshmallow layer. The slight heat will help them to stick but not melt, creating a beautiful mosaic of Easter colors.
7. Cool, Serve, and Enjoy: Patience is a virtue, especially now. Let your creation cool completely to set. Once cool, cut into squares or bars of your desired size and indulge in the festive, chocolaty goodness.
Additional Tips:
- Serving Size: This recipe makes about 12 servings, with each serving packing about 300 kcal. Perfect for sharing or enjoying over a few days (if you can resist!).
- Storage: Keep your Peep Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious, ready for when you need a sweet treat.
- Customization: Feel free to get creative! Use different colored Peeps for various occasions or mix in other candies for an extra surprise.
Final Thoughts:
Peep Bars are more than just a treat; they’re a festive expression of creativity and joy. Whether you’re making them for Easter, a spring party, or just because, they’re sure to bring smiles and sweet satisfaction. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create some magic. Happy baking, and happy Easter!
Peep Bars
Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
24 Peeps
2 cups M&Ms (Easter colors preferred)
Directions:
Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 baking pan with tin foil and lightly grease it. Set aside.
Mix: In a bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and oil. The mixture will be thick.
Bake the Base: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 12 minutes.
Add Peeps: While the cake is baking, chop Peeps into small pieces. After 12 minutes of baking, quickly sprinkle the Peeps evenly over the cake.
Final Bake: Return to the oven for about 5-6 minutes, or until the marshmallows start to toast.
Top with M&Ms: Remove from the oven and sprinkle M&Ms on top. Allow to cool completely.
Serve: Cut into desired size pieces and store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes | Total Time: 28 minutes | Kcal: 300 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings