Homemade Marshmallows
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Learn how to make fluffy and delightful homemade marshmallows that will elevate your sweet treats!
Homemade marshmallows are a delightful treat that can bring back childhood memories. Soft, fluffy, and sweet, these marshmallows are perfect for hot chocolate, s'mores, or just enjoying on their own.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Customizable flavors to suit your taste
- Perfect for roasting over a fire or adding to desserts
The Joy of Homemade Marshmallows
Making homemade marshmallows is a delightful experience that brings joy to both the creator and those who enjoy the final product. Unlike store-bought marshmallows, which can often be dense and lacking in flavor, homemade versions are incredibly fluffy and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. The process of whipping the sugar and gelatin mixture creates a light, airy texture that is simply irresistible.
Moreover, homemade marshmallows are a fantastic way to get creative in the kitchen. You can infuse them with various flavors, such as peppermint, chocolate, or even fruit extracts, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making s'mores, hot chocolate, or simply enjoying them on their own, the unique flavors you create will surely impress your friends and family.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Homemade marshmallows are not just a treat; they are a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. They can be served at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or even as an everyday snack. Their fluffy texture makes them ideal for roasting over an open fire, where they become golden and gooey, perfect for sandwiches between graham crackers and chocolate.
Additionally, marshmallows can enhance a variety of desserts. Try adding them to brownies, cakes, or even as a topping for ice cream sundaes. The possibilities are endless, and your guests will appreciate the extra touch of homemade goodness in every bite.
Storing and Using Your Marshmallows
Once you’ve made your batch of homemade marshmallows, it's important to store them properly to maintain their fluffy texture. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they can last for up to two weeks. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, but be wary as they can become a bit firmer in texture.
When it comes to using your marshmallows, the options are endless. Use them in classic recipes like Rice Krispie treats or as a sweet addition to your morning coffee. Feel free to experiment with flavor pairings and toppings, and don't hesitate to share your creations with friends. Homemade marshmallows are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Homemade Marshmallows
Marshmallow Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 packets unflavored gelatin
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Make sure to have everything ready before you start, as the process moves quickly!
Instructions
Instructions for Making Homemade Marshmallows
Prepare the Gelatin
In a small bowl, combine the gelatin with 1/2 cup of cold water and let it sit for about 10 minutes to bloom.
Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, 1/2 cup water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil and cook until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C).
Combine and Whip
Remove the syrup from heat. Add the bloomed gelatin and vanilla extract, stirring until fully dissolved. Transfer to a mixing bowl and whip on high speed for about 10 minutes until fluffy and tripled in volume.
Set the Marshmallows
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Dust the top with powdered sugar and let it sit for at least 4 hours or until set.
Cut and Serve
Once set, dust a clean surface with powdered sugar, turn the marshmallow slab out, and cut into squares. Dust the cut edges with more powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Enjoy your homemade marshmallows in hot chocolate, s'mores, or as a sweet snack!
Tips for Success
To ensure your marshmallows turn out perfectly every time, it's crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially when it comes to sugar and gelatin. This attention to detail will help achieve the right consistency and texture in your marshmallows.
Additionally, don’t rush the whipping process. Allowing the mixture to whip for the full 10 minutes is essential for achieving that light and fluffy texture. If you stop too soon, your marshmallows may turn out denser than desired.
Flavor Variations
The beauty of homemade marshmallows lies in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different flavorings and colors. For a fruity twist, add pureed berries or citrus zest into the mixture. If you're a chocolate lover, consider swirling in some melted chocolate or using cocoa powder.
You can also coat your marshmallows in various toppings once they've set. Try rolling them in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even a dusting of cocoa powder for a unique finish. This not only adds flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your homemade marshmallows, presentation is key. Consider serving them on a platter with a selection of dips, such as melted chocolate or caramel sauce, for a fun dessert table. They also make great additions to gift baskets during the holidays or for special occasions.
For a cozy night in, pair your marshmallows with a warm cup of hot chocolate and enjoy the comforting combination of flavors. With their fluffy texture and sweet taste, homemade marshmallows are sure to bring smiles all around.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored?
Yes, but the texture may vary slightly, and the final product will taste different.
→ How long do homemade marshmallows last?
They can last up to 2-3 weeks if stored in an airtight container.
→ Can I make these marshmallows vegan?
Yes, you can substitute gelatin with agar-agar and follow similar steps.
→ What can I do with leftover marshmallows?
Use them in desserts, hot drinks, or simply enjoy them as a snack!
Homemade Marshmallows
Learn how to make fluffy and delightful homemade marshmallows that will elevate your sweet treats!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 servings
What You'll Need
Marshmallow Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 packets unflavored gelatin
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, combine the gelatin with 1/2 cup of cold water and let it sit for about 10 minutes to bloom.
In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, 1/2 cup water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil and cook until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C).
Remove the syrup from heat. Add the bloomed gelatin and vanilla extract, stirring until fully dissolved. Transfer to a mixing bowl and whip on high speed for about 10 minutes until fluffy and tripled in volume.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Dust the top with powdered sugar and let it sit for at least 4 hours or until set.
Once set, dust a clean surface with powdered sugar, turn the marshmallow slab out, and cut into squares. Dust the cut edges with more powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 0g