In 1917, a coal miner from Kentucky approached one of our traveling salesmen with a simple request – he wanted a snack that was “as big as the moon.” This miner, like many others, needed a filling and satisfying treat to bring with him to work in the coal mines. Our salesman, Earl Mitchell, took this request back to our bakery, and the bakers got to work creating a snack that would soon become a beloved American icon – the MoonPie.
The MoonPie was designed to be a substantial snack that could easily fit into a coal miner's lunch pail. It needed to be hearty enough to provide energy and sustenance for the long and grueling workdays in the mines. The bakers at our bakery came up with a delicious combination of graham cracker cookies sandwiching a layer of marshmallow, all dipped in a rich chocolate coating. This simple yet delightful treat became known as the MoonPie, named after the miner's request for a snack as big as the moon.
The MoonPie quickly gained popularity among coal miners and beyond. Its portable size, delicious taste, and satisfying nature made it a hit with people from all walks of life. Whether you were a miner in Kentucky or a worker in a factory, the MoonPie provided a much-needed pick-me-up during long and demanding days.
As the years went by, the MoonPie continued to grow in popularity. It became a staple in many households, finding its way into lunchboxes, picnics, and even as a dessert after family dinners. People loved the combination of the crunchy graham cracker, the fluffy marshmallow, and the indulgent chocolate coating. The MoonPie became a symbol of American ingenuity and resourcefulness, a treat that could bring joy and satisfaction to anyone who enjoyed it.
Personally, I have fond memories of enjoying MoonPies during my childhood. My grandmother would always have a stash of them in her pantry, and whenever I visited her, she would offer me one with a warm smile. I can still remember the feeling of biting into the sweet and creamy marshmallow filling, complemented by the crispness of the graham cracker and the richness of the chocolate. It was a simple pleasure that brought me comfort and happiness.
Today, the MoonPie remains a beloved snack across the United States. It has become an iconic part of American culture and is often associated with nostalgia and a sense of simpler times. People continue to enjoy the classic MoonPie flavor, but there have also been variations introduced over the years, such as different flavors of marshmallow fillings or even mini-sized MoonPies.
The MoonPie of 1917 was a groundbreaking snack that was born out of a coal miner's request for a substantial and satisfying treat. It quickly became a favorite among miners and grew in popularity as a beloved American snack. The combination of graham cracker, marshmallow, and chocolate made the MoonPie a symbol of comfort and joy for generations to come.