As Easter approaches, our family is always on the lookout for fun, festive, and, let’s be honest, slightly indulgent treats to celebrate. This year, we stumbled upon a recipe that was an absolute hit with everyone from the littlest bunnies to the grown-up hares – Easter Peep Fruit Kabobs! Imagine vibrant, juicy fruits skewered alongside those iconic, sugary Peeps, creating a colorful and delightful snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. The kids were completely captivated by the rainbow of colors and the marshmallowy sweetness, while the adults appreciated a lighter, fresher take on Easter desserts. It was the perfect balance of healthy and celebratory, and these kabobs vanished in minutes at our Easter gathering. They are incredibly easy to assemble, making them a fantastic activity to do with children, and they are guaranteed to bring smiles to faces of all ages. If you’re looking for a simple, visually appealing, and delicious Easter recipe that combines the joy of Peeps with the goodness of fresh fruit, look no further than these Easter Peep Fruit Kabobs – they are sure to become a new family favorite!

Ingredients for Easter Peep Fruit Kabobs

• Peeps Marshmallow Candies: The star of the show! Choose your favorite Peep colors and shapes. Classic bunny Peeps are perfect for Easter, but chicks or other spring shapes work wonderfully too. The sugary coating adds a delightful sweetness and texture contrast.
• Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries provide a burst of juicy sweetness and a beautiful red color. Look for firm strawberries with bright red hues for the best flavor and visual appeal.
• Grapes: Green grapes offer a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the Peeps and other fruits. Seedless green grapes are the easiest to use and enjoy.
• Kiwi: Adds a vibrant green color and a slightly tangy flavor. Choose kiwis that are firm but yield slightly to pressure, indicating they are ripe and ready to eat.
• Pineapple: Canned pineapple chunks (in juice, not syrup) or fresh pineapple pieces bring a tropical sweetness and a chewy texture. If using fresh pineapple, ensure it’s ripe and sweet for the best flavor. Drain canned pineapple well.
• Blueberries: Small and sweet, blueberries add a pop of blue color and are packed with antioxidants. Choose plump, firm blueberries for the best taste and texture.
• Wooden or Bamboo Skewers: 6-inch or 8-inch skewers work well for individual kabobs. Ensure they are food-grade and safe for consumption. You can also use longer skewers for larger platters.

Instructions for Making Easter Peep Fruit Kabobs

1. Prepare the Fruit: Begin by washing all your chosen fruits thoroughly under cool running water. Pat them dry with a clean paper towel or kitchen towel. This step is crucial for food safety and ensures the fruit is ready for consumption.
2. Cut the Fruit (if necessary): Depending on the size of your fruit, you may need to cut it into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
   • Strawberries: Hull the strawberries by removing the green leafy tops. Cut larger strawberries in half or quarters, depending on their size, so they are roughly the same size as the other fruit pieces.
   • Kiwi: Peel the kiwi fruit using a vegetable peeler or a paring knife. Slice the kiwi into rounds or half-moons, about ¼ to ½ inch thick. You can also cut them into wedges or cubes if you prefer.
   • Pineapple: If using fresh pineapple, peel and core it. Cut the pineapple into bite-sized chunks, approximately 1-inch cubes. If using canned pineapple chunks, drain them well to remove excess juice.
   • Grapes and Blueberries: These fruits are usually small enough to use whole, but if you are using very large grapes, you can cut them in half.
3. Arrange Your Workspace: Set up your workspace with all the prepared fruits, Peeps, and skewers laid out in an organized manner. This assembly line approach makes the kabob-making process much smoother and more efficient, especially if you are making a large batch or involving children. Having everything readily accessible also helps maintain cleanliness and prevents cross-contamination.
4. Assemble the Kabobs: Now comes the fun part! Start threading the fruit pieces and Peeps onto the skewers. You can follow a pattern or create a random assortment – let your creativity guide you!
   • Consider Color and Texture: Think about alternating colors and textures for visual appeal and a more enjoyable eating experience. For example, you could alternate a red strawberry, a green grape, a yellow Peep, a blue blueberry, and a green kiwi slice.
   • Start and End with Fruit: To keep the Peeps from sliding off easily, it’s a good idea to start and end each skewer with a piece of fruit. The slightly sticky surface of some fruits can help hold the Peeps in place.
   • Peep Placement: Gently thread the Peeps onto the skewer. Be careful not to push too hard, as they are delicate. You can place the Peeps in the middle of the kabob or distribute them throughout.
   • Vary the Order: There’s no right or wrong way to assemble the kabobs. You can create a rainbow effect, group similar colors together, or simply mix and match as you go. The goal is to make them visually appealing and delicious.
5. Repeat and Create: Continue assembling kabobs until you have used up all your ingredients or have made the desired number of kabobs. This recipe is easily scalable, so you can make as many or as few as you need.
6. Chill (Optional): If you are not serving the kabobs immediately, you can gently cover them with plastic wrap and chill them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. Chilling can help the fruit stay fresh and the kabobs become even more refreshing, especially on a warm day. However, it’s best to assemble them relatively close to serving time for optimal freshness, as Peeps can become slightly sticky in the refrigerator.
7. Serve and Enjoy!: Arrange the Easter Peep Fruit Kabobs on a platter or serving tray. They are ready to be enjoyed as a fun and healthy Easter treat. Watch as everyone, especially the kids, delight in these colorful and delicious skewers!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – approximately 1 kabob)

• Servings: Approximately 12-15 kabobs (depending on skewer length and amount of ingredients used)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 150-200 calories (estimated, can vary based on fruit and Peep types/sizes)
• Sugar: Approximately 25-30 grams (primarily from fruit and Peeps)
• Vitamin C: Varies, but strawberries and kiwi are good sources
• Fiber: Approximately 1-2 grams (from fruit)
• Fat: Minimal (from Peeps, negligible)
• Sodium: Low

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific fruits used, the size of the Peeps, and portion sizes. This is intended as a general guideline.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20-30 minutes. This includes washing and cutting the fruit, and setting up your workspace. The beauty of this recipe is its quick preparation time, making it ideal for busy schedules or last-minute Easter gatherings. The assembly process is also quite rapid, especially if you involve helpers!

How to Serve Easter Peep Fruit Kabobs

• Easter Brunch or Dessert Table: These kabobs make a stunning addition to any Easter brunch spread or dessert table. Arrange them vertically in a decorative holder or lay them out on a platter for easy grabbing.
• Kids’ Easter Party: Perfect for kids’ Easter parties! They are visually appealing, fun to eat, and offer a healthier treat option amidst all the chocolate and candy.
• After Easter Egg Hunt Treat: Reward little egg hunters with a refreshing and colorful fruit kabob after their exciting search.
• Picnics and Outdoor Gatherings: Portable and easy to eat, these kabobs are great for Easter picnics or any spring outdoor gatherings.
• With a Yogurt Dip: Offer a side of vanilla yogurt or Greek yogurt for dipping. This adds a creamy element and a boost of protein. You can even flavor the yogurt with a touch of honey or vanilla extract.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the assembled kabobs just before serving. Let the chocolate set slightly for a beautiful and decadent finish.
• Fruit Salad Addition: If you have leftover fruit after making the kabobs, chop it up and create a refreshing fruit salad to serve alongside.
• Individual Snack Bags: For easy grab-and-go snacks, especially for kids, place a few kabobs in individual snack bags or containers.

Additional Tips for Perfect Easter Peep Fruit Kabobs

1. Fruit Freshness is Key: Use the freshest, ripest fruits available for the best flavor and texture. Slightly underripe fruit will be too tart, and overripe fruit can be mushy and difficult to skewer.
2. Peep Variety: Experiment with different Peep colors, flavors, and shapes. Beyond the classic yellow chicks and bunny Peeps, you can find pink, blue, lavender, and even flavored Peeps to add variety and fun.
3. Soaking Wooden Skewers (Optional): If using wooden skewers, you can soak them in water for about 30 minutes before assembling. This helps prevent them from burning if you decide to grill the kabobs briefly (though not necessary for this recipe, it’s a good tip for other kabob recipes). It also helps them slide through the fruit more easily.
4. Involve the Kids: Making these kabobs is a fantastic activity to do with children. Let them wash and cut the fruit (with supervision), and definitely let them assemble the kabobs themselves. It’s a fun, hands-on way to get them involved in the kitchen and excited about healthy snacks.
5. Make Ahead (Partially): You can prepare the fruit ahead of time and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, it’s best to assemble the kabobs closer to serving time to prevent the fruit from drying out and the Peeps from becoming sticky.
6. Lemon Juice Trick: To prevent fruits like apples or bananas (if you choose to add them) from browning, lightly toss them in a little lemon juice after cutting. This helps maintain their fresh color and appearance.
7. Presentation Matters: Arrange the finished kabobs attractively on a platter. You can use Easter-themed serving dishes or decorate the platter with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for an extra festive touch.
8. Storage (Short Term): If you have leftover kabobs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, be aware that the Peeps may become slightly sticky in the fridge. It’s best to consume them within a day or two for optimal quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easter Peep Fruit Kabobs

Q1: Can I make these kabobs ahead of time?
A1: It’s best to assemble the kabobs closer to serving time for optimal freshness. You can prepare the fruit a day ahead and store it separately in the refrigerator. Assembling them too far in advance can make the Peeps sticky and the fruit less vibrant.

Q2: What other fruits can I use for these kabobs?
A2: The possibilities are endless! Consider adding melon (cantaloupe, honeydew), oranges, mandarin oranges, grapes of different colors (red, black), blackberries, raspberries, or even chunks of angel food cake for a slightly different texture. Choose fruits that are firm enough to hold their shape on a skewer.

Q3: Can I use sugar-free Peeps for a healthier option?
A3: While classic Peeps are sugary, some brands offer sugar-free or reduced-sugar marshmallow options. These might be a healthier alternative if you are watching your sugar intake. Keep in mind that the texture and taste might be slightly different from traditional Peeps.

Q4: Are these kabobs suitable for children with allergies?
A4: These kabobs are naturally gluten-free and nut-free (assuming your Peeps are nut-free, always check the label). However, always be mindful of any specific allergies. If someone has a marshmallow allergy or fruit allergies, this recipe may not be suitable.

Q5: Can I grill or bake these kabobs?
A5: While you could technically grill them briefly, it’s not recommended for this recipe. Peeps melt quickly under heat, and the fruit is best served fresh. These kabobs are designed to be a no-cook, refreshing treat.

Q6: How do I keep the Peeps from sliding off the skewers?
A6: Starting and ending each skewer with a piece of fruit helps anchor the Peeps. Also, gently thread the Peeps onto the skewer without pushing too forcefully. Using slightly sticky fruits like pineapple can also help.

Q7: Can I use chocolate-covered Peeps for these kabobs?
A7: Yes, you can! Chocolate-covered Peeps would add an extra layer of indulgence and flavor. However, they might be a bit messier to handle, especially if it’s warm, and they will significantly increase the sugar and calorie content.

Q8: What can I do with leftover Peeps if I have too many?
A8: Leftover Peeps can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can use them for other recipes like Peep s’mores, Peep milkshakes, or simply enjoy them as a sweet snack. They are also great for melting into hot chocolate for a marshmallowy treat.

Print