Peeps Bunny Treat Mix

Okay, I know I've been pushing the real food agenda around here......... but around the holidays, I admit I usually succumb to the inevitable cravings for SUGAR! This time of year is my favorite for all the goodies-- jellybeans, chocolate eggs, marshmallow bunnies-- YAY!!  I'll even admit that sometimes.... eh hem.... I have to go back out at the last minute to fill in gaps for the pre-Easter snacking that I've done.

I'm trying to be better this year and will only admit to a few handfuls of jellybeans and 2 of the mini Reese's eggs. But there is NO way I'm gonna make it (or the holiday stash) until Sunday if Momma doesn't get a sugar fix RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!

I have been seeing a load of pics on Pinterest for a "bunny bait snack mix". The variations I've seen involve: popcorn, chex, pretzels, easter M&M's, sprinkles and white chocolate chips and/or "melting chocolate". It looks super cute (and yummy!) but I have to say that even in the midst of a full blown sugar craving I just can't touch that fake chocolate "candy melts" or white chocolate of any kind.

Yesterday, I saw a very intriguing post on making candied popcorn from melted peeps.(www.simplyklassichome.com/2013/02/peeps-popcorn.html) Percolating overnight in my brain, I've come up with my own variation on the bunny snack mix-- swapping out white chocolate with the melted peeps! The texture is similar to a loose rice krispies treat. I'm (and the rest of the family) really enjoying the sweet/salty combo from the popcorn, pretzels, marshmallow and M's.

If you have food dye sensitive folks (or just want to avoid them) feel free to substitute regular marshmallows for the peeps.

Recipe: Peeps Bunny Treat Mix

12 bunny (or chick) peeps
2 Tbs butter
6 cups popped popcorn (if using microwaved, avoid the buttered flavors)
3 cups pretzels (twists or sticks)
1/2 cup M&M's

1) In a large pot, melt butter. Add peeps and stir until completely melted.

2) Add in popcorn and pretzels.
3) Stir until completely coated.
4) Add in M's and stir quickly (to avoid melting or bursting the M's)
5) Spread on a baking sheet covered with a silicone mat or wax paper.

6) Let sit until completely cooled (about 15 min). Break or tear into clumps & enjoy!

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