The high cost of eggs is taking a toll on local businesses.

"It's costing us a lot more money to make our product here at the bakery," said Sky Mercede at Forever Sweet Bakery in Norwalk. Forever Sweet makes tons of cupcakes every day. Eggs are a main ingredient. "Last week they didn't have any eggs at our supplier," said Mercede. Bird flu is forcing farmers to slaughter millions of chickens a month, pushing U.S. egg prices to more than double their cost in the summer of 2023. And it appears there may be no relief in sight with Easter approaching.

The average price per dozen eggs nationwide hit $4.15 in December. That’s not quite as high as the $4.82 record set two years ago, but the Agriculture Department predicts egg prices are going to soar another 20% this year.

Back in the day, Forever Sweet could buy a dozen eggs for $1. "Our supplier is at $8 plus per dozen. So that's a lot of money. We have to call around and see what the best prices are that we can get. We may have to jump in the car and get the eggs," said Mercede. He says he and his wife are not changing the recipe or the price – hoping he can bet on the increased demand for his products for Valentine's Day and the Super Bowl.

AP Wire Services contributed to this report.