Homemade Marshmallows Recipe

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Making homemade marshmallows is easier than you might think, and the results are far superior to store-bought ones. With just a few simple ingredients like gelatin, sugar, and vanilla, you can whip up a batch of fluffy, delicious treats right in your own kitchen.

You’ll love customizing your marshmallows with different flavors and shapes. Whether you’re preparing them for s’mores, hot cocoa, or just a sweet snack, homemade marshmallows add a special touch.

Get ready to enjoy marshmallows that are softer, fresher, and tastier than anything you can buy at the store. Your friends and family will be impressed!

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

To make homemade marshmallows, you’ll need some basic ingredients. Here they are, along with possible substitutes:

Basic Ingredients

1. Gelatin: This is the key ingredient for marshmallow texture.

   • Substitute: Agar-Agar (for a vegan option)

2. Sugar: Provides sweetness and structure.

   • Substitute: Honey, Maple Syrup, or Coconut Sugar (adjust quantities for taste)
3. 
   

   Water: Helps dissolve the gelatin and sugar.

   
   

4. Corn Syrup: Prevents sugar from crystallizing.

   • Substitute: Honey or Agave Syrup
5. 
   

   Salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.

   
   

Optional Ingredients

• Vanilla Extract: Adds a pleasant flavor.

  • Substitute: Almond Extract or Peppermint Extract

• Powdered Sugar: Used for dusting to prevent sticking.

  • Substitute: Cornstarch or a mix of both

• Food Coloring: Adds color to your marshmallows.

  • Substitute: Natural coloring like beet juice or turmeric

Example Ingredients for Corn Syrup-Free Version

• ½ cup cold water
• 3 packets gelatin
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup honey or maple syrup
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

This mix ensures you get fluffy, delicious marshmallows without needing corn syrup. Adjust the ingredient amounts to your taste and preference. Enjoy creating your personalized marshmallows!

Instructions

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup cold water
• 2 1/2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Steps

1. Prepare Gelatin:

Sprinkle gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water in the bowl of a stand mixer. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soften.

2. Make Sugar Syrup:

In a small saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and the remaining 1/2 cup of water. Heat on medium, stirring until sugar dissolves.

Increase the heat to high. Do not stir. Use a candy thermometer to monitor until it reaches 240°F (115°C).

3. Mix Gelatin and Syrup:

Turn the mixer to low speed. Slowly pour the *hot syrup* down the side of the bowl into the gelatin.

4. Whip the Mixture:

Increase the mixer speed to high. Whip for about 10-12 minutes until the mixture is thick and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix briefly.

5. Pour into Pan:

Lightly oil a 9×13-inch pan and dust with powdered sugar. Pour the marshmallow mixture into the pan. Use a lightly oiled spatula to smooth the top.

6. Let Set:

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the marshmallows set at room temperature for at least 8 hours or overnight.

7. Cut and Dust:

Turn the marshmallows out onto a cutting board dusted with powdered sugar. Cut into squares with a sharp knife. Dust all sides with more powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Enjoy your homemade marshmallows!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

When making homemade marshmallows, cut them into small squares or pieces. Use a greased knife or kitchen scissors to avoid sticking.

After cutting, coat each piece with cornstarch or confectioners’ sugar. This prevents clumping.

Storing Your Marshmallows

• Store marshmallows in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh longer.
• Keep them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and strong odors.
• If you need to store multiple layers, place parchment or wax paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezing Marshmallows

You can freeze marshmallows for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before eating.

Additional Tips

• Avoid storing marshmallows in plastic bags. They don’t protect as well as airtight containers.
• Don’t refrigerate. Marshmallows will harden if kept in the fridge or freezer for too long.

Using these tips, you can enjoy fresh, fluffy marshmallows every time!

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

There are many ways to tweak a basic marshmallow recipe to make it your own. Here are some fun ideas:

1. Different Extracts: Swap vanilla extract for almond, peppermint, or lemon extract.
2. Food Coloring: Add a few drops of your favorite color to the mixture for a festive look.
3. Coconut Flakes: Stir in shredded coconut for a fun texture.

For a chocolate twist, you can add cocoa powder to the mix. Try 1/4 cup of cocoa powder sifted into the powdered sugar coating for a chocolatey treat.

Serving Suggestions

• Hot Cocoa Topper: Float one on top of hot chocolate for a sweet treat.
• S’mores: Roast them for classic s’mores.
• Ice Cream Topping: Cube marshmallows and sprinkle them over ice cream.
• Gift Idea: Package them in cellophane bags with ribbons for a cute homemade gift.

Fun Add-Ins

• Crushed Peppermint: Add peppermint bits for a minty crunch.
• Chocolate Chips: Stir in mini chocolate chips before the marshmallows set.
• Fruit Swirl: Swirl in a bit of fruit puree, like strawberry or raspberry.

Try experimenting with different flavors and textures. It’s an easy way to make your homemade marshmallows extra special!