Marshmallow Peeps, known for their vibrant colors and diverse flavors, have become a staple during the Easter holiday season. These iconic candies are produced in vast quantities in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, by Just Born Quality Confections, a family-run business also responsible for creating other well-known sweets like Hot Tamales, Mike and Ike fruit chews, and Goldenberg’s Peanut Chews. The Peeps brand stands out as the company’s most recognizable product, sparking strong opinions both for and against its inclusion in Easter traditions. While some consider Peeps an essential part of an Easter basket, others critique them for their notorious durability. Beyond consumption, Peeps find their way into recipes and even serve as artistic materials.
Every year, an astounding number of Peeps are produced, with daily production averaging around 5.5 million units. This results in an annual output of approximately 2 billion Peeps, roughly equivalent to six Peeps per person in the United States. Initially introduced in yellow, these sugary chicks and bunnies are now available in nine colors this Easter season, including pink, blue, and lavender. The flavor variety is equally expansive, with 14 unique tastes for Easter, ranging from cookies and cream to fruit punch and sour watermelon. Throughout the year, these colors and flavors evolve to align with different holiday themes.
In the early 1950s, Bob Born, who earned the title “Father of Peeps,” revolutionized their production. Originally, crafting these candies by hand took 27 hours. However, Born, alongside a company engineer, developed a machine that reduced production time to less than six minutes, a process still in use today. Peeps begin with ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin that are cooked and combined to form marshmallows. They are then shaped and coated in a “sugar shower,” utilizing approximately 400 pounds of sugar per batch for their colored sugars. Each freshly made Peep, weighing in at one-third of an ounce, is cooled on a conveyor before packaging.
Your Takeaway
The widespread production and popularity of Peeps highlight their significant role in American Easter celebrations. For consumers, these marshmallow treats offer a sense of nostalgia and tradition, often serving as a symbol of springtime joy. The variety of colors and flavors cater to diverse tastes, ensuring that there is a Peep for everyone. Moreover, the creative ways in which Peeps are used—whether in culinary creations or art projects—demonstrate their versatile appeal.
From a manufacturing perspective, Just Born Quality Confections showcases innovation and efficiency in the candy industry. The ability to produce vast quantities of Peeps in a short time frame reflects advancements in production technology, setting a standard for other confectionery companies. As Peeps continue to evolve with new flavors and colors, they remain a beloved fixture in holiday celebrations, reinforcing their status as an enduring icon in American culture.