Moon Pie

American confection

For other uses, see Moon Pie (disambiguation).

A Wagon Wheel, similar to a Moon Pie

A Moon Pie is a type of confection popular in the United States, particularly in the Southern United States. It consists of two round graham cracker cookies, with marshmallow filling in the center, dipped in a flavored coating. The traditional flavors include chocolate, vanilla, and banana, but other varieties have been introduced over time.

A single Moon Pie

History

The Moon Pie was first created in 1917 by the Chattanooga Bakery in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The bakery was looking to create a product that would be both filling and affordable for coal miners. The original idea was to make a snack that was "as big as the moon," hence the name "Moon Pie."

Production

Moon Pies are made by sandwiching marshmallow filling between two round graham cracker cookies. The sandwich is then coated in a flavored coating, which is typically chocolate, but can also be vanilla, banana, or other flavors. The production process involves baking the cookies, preparing the marshmallow filling, assembling the sandwiches, and then coating them.

Cultural Significance

Moon Pies have become a cultural icon in the Southern United States. They are often associated with Mardi Gras celebrations, particularly in Mobile, Alabama, where they are thrown from floats during parades. Moon Pies are also a traditional snack at RC Cola and Moon Pie festivals, which celebrate the pairing of the confection with the popular soft drink.

Variations

Over the years, several variations of the Moon Pie have been introduced. These include different sizes, such as the "mini" Moon Pie, and different flavors, such as strawberry and salted caramel. Some variations also include additional ingredients, such as peanut butter.

Similar Products

Moon Pies are similar to other confections around the world. In the United Kingdom, a similar product is known as the Wagon Wheel. In Australia, a similar treat is called a Choco Pie. These products share the basic structure of a marshmallow filling sandwiched between cookies and coated in chocolate or another flavored coating.

Related pages

• Chattanooga Bakery
• Mardi Gras
• RC Cola
• Wagon Wheel (biscuit)