Homemade marshmallows are fluffy, sweet, and a treat everyone will love. Making marshmallows at home may sound difficult, but it’s quite simple! You can enjoy them in hot chocolate, desserts, or just by themselves. Plus, they taste so much better than store-bought ones!
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this homemade marshmallow recipe because it is easy, fun, and delicious. They have a soft, cloud-like texture that melts in your mouth. Making them yourself means you can control the ingredients. You can even add different flavors, colors, or toppings to customize them to your liking. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a sweet snack.
How to Make Homemade Marshmallows
Ingredients
- 3 envelopes unflavored gelatin (.75 oz)
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup light Karo syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
Directions
- Line a 9X9 inch baking pan with plastic wrap. Lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- In the bowl of a standing electric mixer, pour in the unflavored gelatin. Add the 1/2 cup of cold water and let it sit for 10 minutes to soak.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, Karo syrup, and 1/4 cup of water. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat. Whisk until it comes to a rolling boil, then boil for 1 minute.
- Carefully pour the boiling syrup over the soaked gelatin. Add the salt. Using the whisk attachment, turn the mixer to high speed and beat for 12 minutes.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Using a rubber spatula, lightly sprayed with non-stick cooking spray, scrape the marshmallow cream into the prepared pan. Smooth the top evenly.
- Lightly spray another piece of plastic wrap and gently place it over the top of the marshmallow cream. Seal around the pan and let it set for 4 hours or overnight.
- In a bowl, combine the powdered sugar and cornstarch, stirring to mix well.
- Remove the marshmallow from the pan, and cut it into your desired sizes. Dredge each piece in the powdered sugar/cornstarch mixture and serve!
How to Serve Homemade Marshmallows
Homemade marshmallows can be served in many ways. You can enjoy them on their own, dip them in chocolate, or use them in hot chocolate to make it extra special. Serve them at parties or use them for s’mores when camping!
How to Store Homemade Marshmallows
Store your homemade marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to 2 weeks. Make sure they are coated in the powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture to prevent them from sticking together.
Tips to Make Homemade Marshmallows
- Make sure to measure the ingredients carefully for the best results.
- Allow the marshmallows to set for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the marshmallows for clean edges.
Variation
You can add different flavors or colors to your marshmallows. For example, try adding peppermint extract for a minty treat or colorful food dyes for a festive look. You can even mix in chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored?
A1: No, this recipe specifically uses unflavored gelatin to achieve the correct texture. Flavored gelatin could alter the outcome.
Q2: What can I do if my marshmallows are too sticky?
A2: If your marshmallows are too sticky, make sure to coat them well in the powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture. You can also store them with a piece of parchment paper in between to help absorb moisture.
Q3: How do I make my marshmallows firmer?
A3: To make firmer marshmallows, you can use a little less water when soaking the gelatin, or you can increase the boiling time slightly to help reach a thicker consistency.
Homemade Marshmallows
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 envelopes unflavored gelatin (.75 oz) Unflavored gelatin is essential for the right texture.
- 1/2 cup cold water Used to soak the gelatin.
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup light Karo syrup
- 1/4 cup water Combined with sugar and syrup.
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract For flavoring.
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar For coating.
- 1/3 cup cornstarch For coating.
Instructions
Preparation
- Line a 9X9 inch baking pan with plastic wrap and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- In the bowl of a standing electric mixer, pour in the unflavored gelatin and add 1/2 cup of cold water. Let it sit for 10 minutes to soak.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, Karo syrup, and 1/4 cup of water. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, whisking until it comes to a rolling boil. Boil for 1 minute.
- Carefully pour the boiling syrup over the soaked gelatin and add the salt. Using the whisk attachment, turn the mixer to high speed and beat for 12 minutes.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Using a lightly sprayed rubber spatula, scrape the marshmallow cream into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
- Lightly spray another piece of plastic wrap and gently place it over the top of the marshmallow cream. Seal around the pan and let it set for 4 hours or overnight.
Serving
- In a bowl, combine the powdered sugar and cornstarch, stirring to mix well.
- Remove the marshmallow from the pan and cut it into your desired sizes. Dredge each piece in the powdered sugar/cornstarch mixture and serve.
