Homemade Marshmallows
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Create a delightful treat with this Homemade Marshmallows recipe that brings a fluffy, sweet touch to your holiday celebrations. Perfect for adding to hot cocoa, s'mores, or simply enjoying on their own, these marshmallows are a fun and easy project for the whole family. Customize them with flavors like vanilla or peppermint for that festive touch.
Making marshmallows from scratch is a fun and rewarding project that can be enjoyed by the whole family. They are not only delicious but also the perfect addition to various desserts.
The Joy of Making Marshmallows
Making marshmallows at home is an enjoyable culinary adventure that brings families together. The process of creating these fluffy delights is not only simple but also a fantastic way to engage with children in the kitchen. As you pour, mix, and whip, you’ll witness the transformation of humble ingredients into a cloud-like treat that's perfect for enhancing desserts or enjoying on its own.
Furthermore, this recipe allows for creativity! Feel free to experiment with different flavors, such as adding peppermint extract for a refreshing twist or mixing in chocolate chips for a mocha-inspired version. Customizing your marshmallows means you can cater them to your personal tastes or those of your loved ones.
Tips for Perfect Marshmallows
To achieve a perfect batch of homemade marshmallows, precision is key. Using a candy thermometer to monitor the sugar syrup's temperature ensures it reaches the ideal 240°F (115°C), which is crucial for achieving that sought-after fluffiness. Once the syrup is at the right temperature, it needs to be poured into the gelatin quickly to ensure a smooth mixture.
Also, consider the whipping stage; patience pays off here. Whipping the mixture on high speed for about 10 minutes allows air to be incorporated, creating a light and airy texture. If your mixture isn't whipped long enough, the marshmallows may turn out dense and chewy rather than fluffy and soft.
Ingredients
Homemade Marshmallows Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon gelatine
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
This is the complete list of ingredients you will need to create your homemade marshmallows.
Instructions
Prepare the Equipment
Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with cooking spray and dust with powdered sugar.
Make the Sugar Syrup
In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and cold water. Bring to a boil while stirring, then let it boil until it reaches 240°F (115°C).
Bloom the Gelatin
In a separate bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
Combine Syrup and Gelatin
Pour the hot sugar syrup into the bowl with the bloomed gelatin and mix until the gelatin is dissolved.
Whip the Mixture
Using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, whip the mixture on high speed until it turns white and fluffy (approximately 10 minutes).
Add Flavor and Pour into Pan
Add the vanilla extract and salt to the fluffy mixture and mix briefly. Pour it into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Let Set
Dust the top with powdered sugar and let it set for at least 2 hours at room temperature.
Cut the Marshmallows
Once set, turn the marshmallow slab onto a cutting board, cut into squares, and dust with more powdered sugar.
Your homemade marshmallows are now ready to enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake when making marshmallows is rushing the sugar syrup phase. If the syrup doesn't reach the right temperature, the marshmallows will not set properly. It's important to take your time during this step and not skip using a thermometer. Additionally, ensure that your gelatin is fully bloomed before combining it with the syrup to prevent any grainy texture.
Another error is cutting the marshmallows too soon. After pouring the mixture into the pan, let it sit undisturbed at room temperature for at least two hours. Cutting them too early can lead to sticking and uneven shapes.
Storing and Using Homemade Marshmallows
To store your homemade marshmallows, place them in an airtight container. They can last up to a few weeks if stored properly. Dusting them with powdered sugar before stacking will help prevent them from sticking together. This makes them easier to grab and use when you're ready to enjoy them.
These marshmallows are not just for snacking! Use them to elevate your hot chocolate, roast them for s'mores, or even chop them up for adding to desserts like rice crispy treats. Their versatility makes them a delightful addition to any festive gathering or cozy night in.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these marshmallows sugar-free?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with sugar substitutes that can withstand cooking temperatures.
→ How long do homemade marshmallows last?
They can last up to 2-3 weeks if stored in an airtight container.
Homemade Marshmallows
Create a delightful treat with this Homemade Marshmallows recipe that brings a fluffy, sweet touch to your holiday celebrations. Perfect for adding to hot cocoa, s'mores, or simply enjoying on their own, these marshmallows are a fun and easy project for the whole family. Customize them with flavors like vanilla or peppermint for that festive touch.
Created by: Morgan Reeves
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 marshmallows
What You'll Need
Homemade Marshmallows Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon gelatine
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with cooking spray and dust with powdered sugar.
In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and cold water. Bring to a boil while stirring, then let it boil until it reaches 240°F (115°C).
In a separate bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
Pour the hot sugar syrup into the bowl with the bloomed gelatin and mix until the gelatin is dissolved.
Using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, whip the mixture on high speed until it turns white and fluffy (approximately 10 minutes).
Add the vanilla extract and salt to the fluffy mixture and mix briefly. Pour it into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Dust the top with powdered sugar and let it set for at least 2 hours at room temperature.
Once set, turn the marshmallow slab onto a cutting board, cut into squares, and dust with more powdered sugar.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Sugar: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 1g