What Is a MoonPie? A Southern Kitchen’s Marshmallow Legacy Since 1917

What is a MoonPie?

It’s a classic Southern snack that’s been around for over 100 years—and with more than a million made every single day, it’s clear this chocolate-covered treat still holds a special place in our hearts.

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Soft graham crackers, fluffy marshmallow filling, and a sweet coating (usually chocolate, but there are others!) come together in one delicious bite that’s stood the test of time.

If you’ve never had one but keep hearing folks talk about them, you’re not alone.

Whether you’re MoonPie-curious or just feeling nostalgic, this snack is more than just a regional favorite—it’s a Southern staple with a story to tell, finding its way into Southern kitchens and family traditions since 1917.

What Is a MoonPie: The Iconic Marshmallow Sandwich

It’s sweet, Southern, and has been around for over a century.

The MoonPie has a way of leaving an impression—whether it’s your first bite or your fiftieth. It may look simple, but there’s more to this snack than meets the eye.

The Anatomy of a MoonPie

Now, let me break down what makes a MoonPie so special.

You’ve got two round graham crackers with the fluffiest marshmallow filling between them.

Then the whole thing gets dipped in chocolate, making it even more delicious than you could imagine.

A MoonPie is pretty substantial too – about four inches in diameter, making it a real honest-to-goodness treat.

That marshmallow center is thick and delicious, none of that skimpy stuff you find in some store-bought treats.

This generous helping of marshmallow is what makes the MoonPie truly special and sets it apart from everything else on the shelf.

The Classic Flavors and Modern Varieties

The Original Chocolate MoonPie will always hold a special place in my heart—it’s a true classic that never goes out of style.

But over the years, we’ve been blessed with so many wonderful options that there’s truly something for everyone.

As of the writing of this article, here is the Moon Pie Official Product Line:

Classic MoonPie Flavors

• Chocolate (Original)
• Vanilla
• Banana

Modern MoonPie Flavors

• Lemon (seasonal)
• Blueberry (seasonal)
• Pumpkin Spice (seasonal)
• Salted Caramel

MoonPie Size Options

1. Mini MoonPies

• Available in: Chocolate, Vanilla, Banana, Blueberry*, Lemon*, Salted Cameral, Pumpkin Spice* : * = Seasonal Availability
• Perfect for: When you want just a taste of MoonPie magic—bite-sized and great for sharing or a quick sweet snack.

2. Single MoonPie (Classic Size)

• Available in: Chocolate, Vanilla, Banana
• Description: The classic four-inch diameter treat that’s been satisfying folks since 1917.

3. Double-Decker MoonPie

• Available in: Chocolate, Vanilla, Banana, Blueberry*, Lemon*, Salted Cameral, Pumpkin Spice* : * = Seasonal Availability
• Description: Even more marshmallow and graham cracker goodness—with two layers of marshmallow instead of one. A real treat for anyone with a serious sweet tooth!

Discontinued and Rare Flavors

While today’s MoonPie fans enjoy classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and banana, there have been some delicious varieties over the years that aren’t always easy to find.

Here’s a look at the flavors you might remember—or wish you could try—but that aren’t currently available year-round.

Orange

Once available as a double-decker MoonPie, this citrusy treat has been discontinued.

Butterscotch

While not currently listed among the regular or double-decker flavors, butterscotch has made appearances in past product listings and may have been a limited or regional release.

Peanut Butter

A fan favorite, peanut butter MoonPies have been available in the past, especially in MoonPie Crunch products. Though not currently a standard flavor, many fans still hope for its return.

Mint

Not a regular flavor, but mint has popped up in MoonPie Crunch varieties and is sometimes mentioned in fan discussions or regional promotions.

Chocolate Peanut Butter

While not currently part of the regular lineup, this combination has been featured in the past and remains a popular request among MoonPie fans.

Seasonal Limited Editions

Lemon

Lemon MoonPies are still available seasonally as mini MoonPies according to the official MoonPie website, though the double-decker version has been discontinued.

Blueberry (“Once in a Blue Moon”)

Introduced in mini format in June 2023, this flavor is considered a limited or seasonal release and may not always be available.

Coconut

This flavor is especially popular during Mardi Gras and is typically released as a seasonal treat, not available year-round.

Pumpkin Spice

A fall favorite, pumpkin spice MoonPies make a brief appearance each autumn before disappearing from shelves until the next year.

Flavor	Status	Notes
Orange	Discontinued	Double-decker only
Butterscotch	Rare/Discontinued	Not currently listed
Peanut Butter	Discontinued/Rare	MoonPie Crunch, fan favorite
Mint	Rare	MoonPie Crunch, not standard
Chocolate PB	Discontinued/Rare	Fan favorite, not current
Lemon	Seasonal	Mini, introducedin 2023
Blueberry	Seasonal/Limited	Mini, introduced in 2023
Coconut	Seasonal	Mardi Gras, not year-round
Pumpkin Spice	Seasonal	Fall release
	© Scribbles and Grits™ All rights reserved.

If you’re a fan of the classics, you’re in luck—but if you’re hoping for a taste of something different, keep an eye out for special releases and new flavors!

Why It’s Called America’s Favorite “Sandwich Cookie”

The MoonPie gets called a sandwich cookie because of those beautiful layers that work together like a symphony.

That fluffy marshmallow is genuinely sandwiched between two graham crackers, and every single bite gives you this amazing mix of crunchy, soft, and sweet that just can’t be beat.

But here’s what sets the MoonPie apart – it’s big and genuinely filling.

This isn’t just some little sweet treat you nibble on.

It’s a real, substantial snack that satisfies hunger, which is exactly why it became so popular with working folks looking for something hearty and delicious.

And speaking of how this satisfying treat came to be, there’s quite a story behind it…

The Origin Story: How the MoonPie Came to Be

Back in the early 1900s, a traveling salesman named Earl Mitchell met a few hardworking Kentucky coal miners.

I don’t think anyone could have predicted that this simple meeting would change American snack foods forever.

Earl Mitchell and the Kentucky Coal Miners’ Request

Earl Mitchell wasn’t just any traveling salesman – he was someone who truly listened to his customers, and that made all the difference.

In 1917, he did something pretty bold for the time: he asked his customers what they wanted instead of just trying to sell them what he had.

“What kind of snack would you like to take with you to work?” Mitchell asked a miner one day, genuinely wanting to know.

The miner’s answer was both simple and practical, the kind of straightforward honesty we love here in the South.

“Something filling,” the miner said, using his hands to show the size he had in mind.

“Something solid that’ll keep me going through those long shifts underground.”

When Mitchell asked about the size, the miner looked up at the sky and said he wanted something “as big as the moon.”

Those simple words sparked the idea for what would become the first moon pie – an idea that would last for generations.

Chattanooga Bakery’s 1917 Innovation

When Mitchell got back to Chattanooga, Tennessee, he shared the miners’ request with the good folks at Chattanooga Bakery.

Now, this bakery was already making over 100 different items, but nothing quite fit what those hardworking miners were describing; they needed to create this new moon pie from scratch.

The team rolled up their sleeves and experimented until they found that perfect combination.

They created a generous marshmallow filling sandwiched between two graham crackers, then dipped the whole thing in chocolate.

It was big, it was tasty, and it was easy to eat on the go – exactly what working folks needed.

So, what did the very first MoonPie cost?

Records from the era are a bit fuzzy, but most sources agree that the original MoonPie sold for just a nickel.

That’s right, for five cents, a miner could get a sweet, satisfying treat to power them through the day.

But the MoonPie wasn’t Chattanooga Bakery’s only claim to fame. Before the MoonPie became a legend, the bakery was already known for another popular product: the “Lookout Bar.”

This tasty candy bar was a hit in its own right, but it was ultimately the MoonPie that stole the spotlight and became a Southern icon.

The MoonPie wasn’t the bakery’s first successful product, but it quickly became their shining star, carrying their legacy proudly for over a century now.

And I’ll tell you what – they got it right the first time!

So, next time you bite into a MoonPie, remember—you’re enjoying a piece of Chattanooga history, born from the ingenuity and hard work of a determined bakery team!

The “Wagon Wheel” Nickname

Before the MoonPie became the iconic Southern snack we know today, its substantial size and round shape earned it the affectionate nickname “wagon wheel.”

Measuring about four inches in diameter, this marshmallow-filled delight was reminiscent of the sturdy wheels that once traversed the American frontier.

While the term “wagon wheel” is now more commonly associated with a similar treat popular in the UK, Australia, and Canada (more info regarding Wagon Wheel Snacks later in the article), MoonPie’s early moniker highlights its longstanding presence in American confectionery history.

Feature	1917 Original	Today’s MoonPie
Size	4 inches wide	Slightly smaller in minis and singles
Price	Just 5 cents	Around $1–$2 per pie
Packaging	Wrapped in paper	Sealed in plastic for freshness
Flavors	Just chocolate	Banana, vanilla, salted caramel & more
	© Scribbles and Grits™ All rights reserved.

From a miner’s pocket to snack aisles nationwide—the MoonPie has changed with the times, but never lost its soul.

MoonPie Ingredients and Production: Then and Now

Every single bite of a MoonPie tells the story of a century-long journey, and I find that fascinating.

The MoonPie’s recipe has changed just a touch over the years, but that magical flavor we all know and love? That’s stayed constant as the North Star.

The Graham Cracker Foundation

The heart and soul of every MoonPie lies in those graham crackers, and let me tell you, these aren’t just any ordinary cookies.

Originally, they were crafted with wheat flour, honey, and graham flour to create that unique taste and texture that we’ve come to adore.

Today, those crackers are made with wheat flour, sugar, and sodium bicarbonate. This careful combination ensures they’re sturdy enough to hold all that wonderful marshmallow filling without getting soggy – and trust me, that’s no small feat!

I’ve tried making graham crackers at home, and let me tell you, it’s much harder than it looks.

Getting that perfect balance of crisp and tender is quite the challenge, which makes me appreciate the masters at Chattanooga Bakery even more.

Marshmallow Filling Evolution Over a Century

Now, this is where the real magic happens – in that fluffy marshmallow filling.

Back in the early days, it was made with sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin, and the original filling was hand-piped onto each graham cracker.

Can you imagine the care that went into each one?

These days, the filling still uses those same basic ingredients – sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin – but they’ve perfected the techniques over generations.

It has that perfect chewy, cloud-like texture we all treasure.

I’ve tried making marshmallows at home, and more often than not, it ends up being a sticky mess that would make you laugh and cry at the same time!

“The secret to our marshmallow’s unique texture isn’t just in the ingredients – it’s in the precise timing and temperature control during production. That’s something that’s been perfected over generations.

Sam Campbell, Third-Generation MoonPie Baker

Chocolate Coating and Flavor Innovations

That chocolate coating is what makes a MoonPie perfect, and I won’t hear any arguments about it.

Originally, it was made from cocoa, sugar, and cocoa butter – simple ingredients that created something magical.

Today’s coating includes cocoa processed with alkali, palm kernel oil, and lecithin for an even smoother, richer flavor.

From vanilla to banana, each flavor manages to keep that authentic MoonPie taste we all treasure while offering something fresh and delightful.

Ingredient Component	1917 Original	Modern Version	Purpose
Graham Crackers	Wheat flour, honey, graham flour	Wheat flour, sugar, sodium bicarbonate	Structural foundation
Marshmallow	Sugar, corn syrup, gelatin	Sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, natural flavors	Soft, chewy center
Chocolate Coating	Cocoa, sugar, cocoa butter	Cocoa processed with alkali, palm kernel oil, lecithin	Protective shell and flavor
Production Method	Largely handmade, hand-dipped	Automated production, precision temperature control	Consistency and efficiency
			© Scribbles and Grits™ – All rights reserved.

The baking and dipping process has certainly evolved from those early handmade days to today’s modern production lines, but the commitment to quality has remained rock-solid.

Yet somehow, when I bite into a MoonPie today, it still brings back that same wonderful 1917 taste that started it all.

A Return to Traditional Roots

In September 2017, as part of their centennial celebration, MoonPie made a significant change that delighted traditionalists—they returned to their original recipe.

This meant replacing high-fructose corn syrup with real sugar and removing artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.

This move reflected a growing consumer preference for more natural ingredients while honoring the authentic taste that made MoonPies beloved in the first place.

The change was a beautiful balance of nostalgia and modern sensibilities—preserving tradition while acknowledging changing consumer preferences.

Cultural Significance in the American South

The moon pie is so much more than just a delicious snack here in the American South. It’s become a true symbol of our values: affordability, simplicity, and those treasured shared traditions that bind us together.

Here in the Southern United States, whether you call it a moon pie or a MoonPie, this treat has woven itself into our celebrations, our daily lives, and our very sense of regional identity.

RC Cola and MoonPie: The Working Man’s Lunch

If you’ve spent any time in the South, you’ve surely heard about that famous combination of RC Cola and a moon pie.

It became known as “the working man’s lunch” during the mid-20th century, and for good reason.

For just 10 cents, hardworking folks could get themselves a satisfying sweet treat that would keep them going strong all afternoon long.

I’ve heard wonderful stories about coal miners and farmers who lived for this combination.

It wasn’t just about saving money, though that certainly mattered – it was a beautiful demonstration of Southern resourcefulness and our ability to find real joy in life’s simple pleasures, no matter what your income might be.

MoonPie Festivals and Southern Celebrations: From Mardi Gras to New Year’s

Throughout the South, we celebrate the moon pie’s cultural importance with festivals that bring our communities together in the most joyful ways.

The biggest and most famous celebration happens in Mobile, Alabama, during Mardi Gras, where

People love catching MoonPies tossed from the colorful parade floats. Mobile even drops a giant moon pie on New Year’s Eve

MoonPies have become essential to carnival season all along our beautiful Gulf Coast.

Bell Buckle’s RC-MoonPie Festival

The annual RC-MoonPie Festival in Bell Buckle, Tennessee, deserves special mention among MoonPie celebrations.

This quirky small-town event features a 10-mile run (so you can earn your MoonPie!), the coronation of the RC-MoonPie King and Queen, games, crafts, Moon Pie games, a parade, and more!

The festival typically draws thousands of visitors to this tiny town (population under 500) each June, demonstrating just how powerful the MoonPie’s cultural pull remains.

It’s a perfect example of how a simple snack has transcended its humble origins to become a centerpiece for community celebration and regional pride.

MoonPie Eating Contests and Records

MoonPie eating contests have truly become a nationwide phenomenon, popping up at county fairs, local festivals, and community gatherings from coast to coast.

These events are a lively testament to the lighthearted, competitive spirit that people everywhere share, especially when a beloved treat is at the center of the action.

At the Bass Pro Shops World MoonPie Eating Championship, competitive eating champion Matt Stonie set the official world record in 2016 by devouring an astonishing 85 MoonPies in just 8 minutes.

That’s more than 10 MoonPies per minute, a feat that’s hard to imagine, so I couldn’t resist! Here’s a little MoonPie mayhem for your viewing pleasure! 😆👇

Geoffrey Esper came close in 2018, finishing 78 MoonPies in the same time frame, but Stonie’s record remains unbeaten

So whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or stepping up to the plate, there’s no denying: MoonPies bring people together, spark friendly rivalries, and create unforgettable memories—one bite at a time.

From Regional Treat to National Icon

Over the decades, the moon pie has grown from our beloved regional treat to become a treasured favorite across the entire country. It started as a distinctly Southern snack, but now it’s loved and appreciated from coast to coast.

During World War II, soldiers from the South proudly shared their MoonPies with fellow servicemen from other regions, and that’s how this wonderful treat began spreading its charm far and wide.

Today, you can find MoonPies in grocery stores from Maine to Mexico, but we Southerners still wear our pride on our sleeves when we call this moon pie our very own.

The company has done a beautiful job of keeping those deep Southern roots while welcoming new fans from all walks of life.

Celebrity Endorsements and Pop Culture Moments

*The Green Mile (1999): In a memorable scene from The Green Mile, the character Toot-Toot enjoys an RC Cola and a MoonPie, only to have fellow inmate Wild Bill offer him a nickel for the treat. This moment has become one of the most recognizable MoonPie references in Hollywood history.

*Tracy Byrd’s “Lifestyles of the Not So Rich and Famous” (1994): Country artist Tracy Byrd celebrates simple Southern pleasures in his hit song, singing, “Our champagne and caviar is an RC Cola and a Moon Pie.” The song reached the top of the country charts and won an ASCAP Award for being among the most performed country songs of 1994.

*Big Bill Lister’s “Gimme an RC Cola and a Moon Pie” (1951): Known as “Radio’s Tallest Singing Cowboy,” Big Bill Lister recorded this delightful tune, highlighting the MoonPie’s place in Southern culture.

*NRBQ’s “RC Cola and a Moon Pie” (1973): The rock band NRBQ paid homage to this iconic duo in their song, further cementing the MoonPie’s place in American music history.

*Larry Groce’s “Junk Food Junkie” (1975): In this novelty hit, Groce sings about indulging in junk food, including the line, “And I pull out some Fritos corn chips, Dr. Pepper and an old Moon Pie.” The song reached #9 on the Billboard Hot 100.

*Larry the Cable Guy’s Stand-Up Routines: Comedian Larry the Cable Guy often references MoonPies in his routines, making them a symbol of his down-home Southern roots. Fans sometimes bring MoonPies to his shows as a sign of appreciation.

MoonPie’s International Family Tree

The MoonPie concept has inspired similar treats worldwide, each with its unique cultural adaptations.

Let’s meet a few of MoonPie’s international cousins:

South Korea: Choco Pie

Choco Pie stands as one of South Korea’s most iconic snacks, instantly recognizable for its two soft cake layers embracing a fluffy marshmallow center, all enveloped in a smooth chocolate coating.

Since its debut in the 1970s, Choco Pie has become a staple in Korean households and has gained popularity in countries across Asia and even beyond, including Russia and Vietnam.

United Kingdom: Wagon Wheels

Wagon Wheels, originating in the United Kingdom, are a beloved snack across the Commonwealth and beyond. These treats feature two biscuit layers sandwiching a marshmallow filling, all coated in chocolate.

While the UK version is a classic, Wagon Wheels are also widely enjoyed in countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and India, each with their regional twists on size and flavor.

Mexico: Mamut (Gamesa)

Mexico offers the Mamut (meaning “Mammoth”), a playful and indulgent treat produced by Gamesa. Mamut features a crunchy cookie base, a thick layer of fluffy marshmallow, and a creamy chocolate coating, creating a satisfying mix of textures and flavors in every bite.

Loved by children and adults alike, Mamut has become a staple snack in Mexican households and is also enjoyed by fans of sweet treats around the world. Its fun personality and delicious taste make it a standout cousin in the global family of marshmallow-filled snacks.

Mexico: Rocko (Marinela)

Rocko, produced by Marinela in Mexico, is a distinctive marshmallow-filled treat that stands out thanks to its unique addition of strawberry jelly. This playful snack features a soft, cake-like base topped with a layer of fluffy marshmallow, a stripe of tangy strawberry jelly, and a smooth chocolate coating.

Rocko’s combination of textures and flavors makes it a beloved choice for children and adults alike, offering a fruity twist on the classic marshmallow sandwich. Its popularity in Mexico and among fans of sweet snacks worldwide cements Rocko’s place as a creative companion to the MoonPie.

Japan: Angel Pies

Japan’s Angel Pies, created by Morinaga, are a beloved snack featuring fluffy vanilla marshmallow sandwiched between two soft biscuits and coated in rich chocolate.

First introduced in 1961, Angel Pies have remained a classic treat in Japan, offering a light and airy texture with a satisfying balance of sweetness and chocolate flavor. 

While inspired by American marshmallow-filled snacks, Angel Pies have developed their own distinct identity and are cherished by both children and adults across the country and by fans of Japanese confectionery worldwide

Turkey: Halley (Ülker)

Halley, produced by Ülker since 1944, is Turkey’s iconic answer to marshmallow-filled snacks. Each Halley pie features a fluffy marshmallow layer nestled between two light biscuits, all coated in rich milk chocolate.

Known for their creamy texture and sweet taste, Halley pies are a beloved childhood treat across Turkey and have gained fans internationally. The snack is especially popular among those seeking halal-certified confections, and its enduring appeal has made it a staple in Turkish households and beyond

Egypt: Bimbo Pies

Egypt’s Bimbo pies follow a familiar concept, offering a sweet, marshmallow-filled snack beloved by locals and fans of confectionery traditions. Featuring two soft biscuits sandwiching a generous layer of fluffy marshmallow, each Bimbo pie is coated in smooth chocolate for a satisfying treat.

Produced by a well-known international brand, Bimbo pies are a staple in Egypt and are enjoyed by children and adults alike as a convenient and delicious snack. Their popularity extends throughout the region, making them a cherished part of Egypt’s modern snack culture.

Argentina: Alfajor

Argentina’s beloved “Alfajor” treats are a cornerstone of the country’s confectionery culture, though they differ slightly from the classic marshmallow-filled sandwich. Traditional alfajores consist of two soft, round cookies sandwiching a sweet filling—most commonly dulce de leche—and are often coated in chocolate, powdered sugar, or coconut.

While not always featuring marshmallow, some modern varieties do include marshmallow or similar creamy fillings, making them a conceptual cousin to Moon Pies and other international snacks. With over 20 brands and countless homemade recipes, alfajores are enjoyed by people of all ages throughout Argentina and have gained popularity across Latin America and beyond.

MoonPie’s Enduring Legacy in American Food Culture

The MoonPie has truly made its mark on American food culture most delightfully.

What started as a simple marshmallow sandwich selling for just a nickel has grown into a beloved treat that spans our entire nation, all while keeping that original charm and authenticity that made us fall in love with it in the first place.

This sweet creation, made of graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate, has stood the test of time in ways that simply amaze me.

Unlike so many other snacks that fade away with changing trends, the MoonPie has remained consistently popular, bringing pure joy to people of all ages with its timeless, classic taste.

The folks at Chattanooga Bakery have masterfully balanced tradition with innovation throughout the decades.

New flavors like blueberry, lemon, and pumpkin spice have joined the classic lineup, keeping the brand fresh and exciting while staying true to those deep Southern roots.

It’s like watching a dear old friend grow and change while remaining fundamentally the same person you’ve always cherished.

MoonPie’s Modern Marketing Magic

While MoonPie has been delighting taste buds since 1917, its recent foray into the digital realm has introduced this classic treat to a whole new generation.

Embracing the quirks of internet humor, MoonPie’s social media presence, especially on Twitter, has become a masterclass in brand personality.

Managed by the Tombras Group, MoonPie’s Twitter account doesn’t just promote snacks—it tells stories, shares laughs, and occasionally, throws playful jabs at competitors.

One memorable instance was when Little Debbie introduced their “Banana Marshmallow Pies.” MoonPie’s cheeky response? “I’d like to speak to Deborah, please.”

This witty retort garnered over 2.6 thousand reposts, 26 thousand likes, and 2.8 million views, showcasing the power of personality-driven marketing.

Such digital endeavors haven’t just earned laughs—they’ve driven results.

MoonPie reported a 17% uptick in sales, attributing this growth to their revamped social media strategy.

By blending nostalgia with contemporary humor, MoonPie has ensured its place both in our hearts and our timelines.

MoonPie FAQ: Common Questions About The Southern Treat

Final Thoughts

What is a MoonPie? It’s more than just a sweet treat—it’s a piece of Southern kitchen heritage that has stood the test of time for over 100 years and counting.

From coal miners’ lunch pails to modern family gatherings, this simple combination of graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate coating has become a beloved icon that spans generations, creating memories in Southern kitchens and beyond.

Whether enjoyed straight from the package, warmed for 10 seconds in the microwave, or incorporated into creative desserts by innovative Southern cooks, the Moon Pie represents our region’s talent for turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

This marshmallow sandwich continues to bring joy to our tables and traditions, reminding us that sometimes the most humble treats become the most cherished parts of our culinary heritage.

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