Happy April!

Nothing says "spring" like a wad of processed sugar--MMMMM! Yes, it's time for Peeps. Check out this article about the marshmallow candy, in, of all places, Saveur magazine. Here is a summarizing excerpt:

It's not easy separating Peep fact from fiction, but this much is true:
• About 350 million chicks and 250 million bunnies will be produced this year.
• Peeps are made of sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, potassium sorbate, artificial flavors, and carnauba wax.
• Each Peep packs a mere 32 calories and 0 grams of fat.
• Many connoisseurs prefer their Peeps stale.
• In 1991, Peeps lost their wings for a sleek, modern look.
• It used to take 27 hours to make a batch of Peeps; the gelatin had to harden overnight. Today, with new technology, it takes 8.5 minutes.
• Peeps receive their colors when they pass through a sort of wind tunnel and tinted sugar blows around and adheres to their sticky bodies.
• Other seasonal Peeps include Spooky Cats, Happy Pumpkins, Christmas Trees, and Snowmen.

And if you want to do more with your Peeps than just eat them (or see what other people do with them), check out the Washington Post's 2nd annual Peeps diorama contest.

(Photo by Daniel Leininger; used by permission.)