Halloween Peeps bring the spooky and sweet to the season

After a spell cast a shadow over last year’s celebration, Halloween Peeps are back on store shelves. For people who cannot resist that sugary, marshmallow treat, there are several designs waiting to be devoured. While always tasty on their own, what other Halloween recipes can get a spooky yet sweet upgrade?

While Peeps might be associated with Easter baskets, the Just Born candy company has shown that chick shapes aren’t the only option hatching from the factory. For the Halloween season, the brand has introduced one new theme and four redesigned options. They are: Marshmallow Skulls, Marshmallow Pumpkins, Marshmallow Ghosts, PEEPS Marshmallow Monsters and PEEPS Marshmallow Cats.

Although everyone will have a favorite character, the Marshmallow Monsters definitely stand out in the crowd. From the coloring to the shape, it might be the must have character. At the same time, the Marshmallow Skulls might be a great choice for Dia los Muertos celebrations.

Beyond just eating a few directly from the package, these Halloween Peeps lend themselves to some sweet creativity. While floating one in a cup of hot cocoa on that chilly fall night is tasty, it isn’t the only option on the recipe card.

The Peeps website has a wide variety of Halloween ideas that even the novice baker can accomplish. From a simple dessert board to even décor on a cupcake, these Halloween Peeps need to be part of any spooky celebration.

Some of the best ideas involve transforming those Peeps into other desserts. For example, Just Born recommends using Peeps as the filling for a Whoopie Pie or as the center to a cookie sandwich. While these ideas do not necessarily showcase the adorable Halloween décor, it is a great use for leftover candy. After all, a stale Peep does not bring smiles all around.

Although some people find Peeps a controversial candy, the seasonal shapes prove that many people cannot get enough of these marshmallow treats. Even though it might not be quite as divisive as candy corn, Peeps can transform a regular dessert into a seasonal one with a little spooky sweetness.

The Halloween Peeps are available at a variety of retailers while supplies last. And, if you do love Peeps, buy a few extra pumpkin shapes for Thanksgiving. Maybe that topping can make grandma’s sweet potato casserole a little more festive.