Homemade Peeps

Pour the cold water into a large mixing bowl, sprinkle gelatin over and let set while the sugar is cooking (at least 5 minutes).

Add sugar and 1/4 cup water to a heavy saucepan, bring to boil stirring. Using a thermometer, boil until thermometer reaches 238ºF. Remove from heat and pour over the gelatin.

Beat on medium high speed for about 8–10 minutes until stiff peaks form and the marshmallow is glossy white and will hold shape.

Fit a decorator bag with a giant round tip (or the largest round tip you have), and fill with marshmallow mixture. Place a piece of wax paper on a small plate. I found this to be easiest, then you can move the plate around. Pipe on a oval shape for the body, then a small dollop for the head, pushing back toward the tail and pulling upward.

Then coat the Peep with sugar, dump excess back in the bowl to re-use.

For the eyes, dip the end of a toothpick in black food coloring and carefully add small dots.