You might say I’m a bit obsessed with Peeps. In addition to the marshmallow treats I also have Peeps pillows, Peep scented hand soap, Peeps t-shirts. I once visited the giant Peeps store at the Mall of America (sadly the store is no longer there). I just recently learned Peeps are only available in the US and Canada. Sorry to my European friends. Maybe you have something similar? Let’s take a closer look at the chemistry of the treat.Whether you love them, hate them, or never heard of them, Peeps are a masterclass in food engineering. They are essentially "Sugar-Coated Air." Peeps provide a perfect opportunity to move from "consumption" to "investigation." When we stop just eating the treat and start asking what makes it expand or melt, we are practicing the "Wonder" we built in Science week. We’re taking a commercial product and reclaiming it for the Global Table of curiosity. Here are a few of my favorite Peeps videos. How Peeps are Made and How to Make Your Own Peeps.

Let’s get messy! In this adventure in the kitchen playing with your food is okay. Just be prepared for some surprised expressions as dough sticks to the hands! I’ve also included a link to Chef Henry’s online recipe book. Note: if you get a “404” when using Chrome, try another browser. The Activity: 1. Search for "Easter Breads around the world." Pick one that looks interesting (for example, the Italian Pane di Pasqua with eggs baked inside or hot cross buns). I’m going to be baking bunny breads. 2. Even if you just use a simple pizza dough or a store-bought mix, spend 10 minutes kneading it by hand with your child. 3. Use "Notice & Wonder" prompts like, "I notice the dough feels sticky. I wonder how much it will grow while we wait?" Older Kids: 12–14 (The Bread Scientist): Research what yeast actually is (a living fungus!). Look at the dough under a magnifying glass before and after it rises. What changed? 15–17 (The Culinary Anthropologist): Search for why certain spices (like saffron, cardamom, or cinnamon) are used in Easter breads. Trace these spices back to the "Silk Road." How did global trade shape what we eat for "tradition" today? Are you brave enough to try baking bread with family? I encourage you to try! Some of my best memories were baking with my grandma and there is something so satisfying about being able to say, “I made that!” https://pantry.bakinggreatbread.com/recipes/easter-bunny-bread