Homemade Marshmallows

Name: Homemade Marshmallows
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup light corn syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons powdered gelatin; 1/2 cup cold water; 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Learn how to make light and fluffy homemade marshmallows that will elevate your desserts and hot chocolates.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2025-12-23T05:42:40.490Z

Homemade marshmallows are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed on their own or used to enhance your favorite desserts. With their soft texture and sweet flavor, they are perfect for toasting by the fire or adding to your hot chocolate. Making marshmallows from scratch is easier than you might think, and the results are well worth the effort!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Customizable flavors to suit your taste
Perfect for s'mores or as a fun topping for desserts

      

The Joy of Homemade Marshmallows

Making marshmallows at home allows you to experience a delightful treat that is often overlooked in stores. The process is surprisingly simple and offers a sense of accomplishment that store-bought versions just can’t match. Plus, when you make them yourself, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that your marshmallows are free from artificial additives and preservatives. This homemade treat is perfect for sharing with family and friends, bringing smiles to everyone's faces.

Homemade marshmallows are not only a delicious snack on their own but also serve as a wonderful addition to a variety of desserts. From topping off hot cocoa to enhancing your favorite cakes, these fluffy delights can elevate any dish. Imagine the joy of biting into a s'more made with your very own marshmallows, or adding a homemade touch to festive treats during the holidays.

Experimenting with Flavors

One of the best parts about making your own marshmallows is the ability to customize flavors. While vanilla is a classic choice, the sky's the limit when it comes to experimenting. Consider adding a splash of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist, or swirl in some melted chocolate or fruit puree for a gourmet touch. You can even try using spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to create seasonal variations that will impress your guests.

For those who enjoy a little adventure, think about incorporating unexpected ingredients like coffee, coconut, or even alcohol-infused flavors. These unique twists can make your marshmallows stand out at parties or gatherings, and they’re sure to be a hit among adventurous eaters. Remember, the key to successful flavoring is to start small and gradually increase until you find your perfect balance.

Tips for Perfect Marshmallows

To achieve the perfect fluffy texture, it's essential to follow the steps carefully. Make sure your candy thermometer is accurate, as cooking the syrup to the right temperature is crucial for setting your marshmallows. If the syrup is too hot or too cool, your marshmallows may end up being too sticky or not set at all. Investing in a good thermometer can make a world of difference in your candy-making endeavors.

Additionally, allow your marshmallows to set undisturbed for at least four hours. This resting period is vital for the marshmallows to firm up properly. Once they have set, dusting with powdered sugar not only prevents sticking but also adds a sweet touch to the final product. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and soft for days.

Ingredients

Marshmallow Ingredients

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons powdered gelatin
1/2 cup cold water
1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Make sure to dust your marshmallows with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin

In a small bowl, combine the powdered gelatin and cold water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to bloom.

Make the Syrup

In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil without stirring, and cook until it reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.

Combine Ingredients

Once the syrup is ready, remove it from the heat. In a large mixing bowl, add the bloomed gelatin and pour the hot syrup over it. Using an electric mixer, beat on high speed until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy, about 10 minutes.

Add Flavoring

Stir in the vanilla extract and continue to mix until fully incorporated.

Set the Marshmallows

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and let it sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours or until set.

Cut and Dust

Once set, dust a clean surface with powdered sugar, turn the marshmallow slab out, and cut into squares. Toss the squares in more powdered sugar to coat.

Store your homemade marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature.

Storing Your Marshmallows

Proper storage is key to maintaining the delightful texture of your homemade marshmallows. Once cut and dusted, place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent them from sticking together and ensure they stay fresh longer. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid clumping.

When stored correctly, homemade marshmallows can last for up to a month. However, you'll likely find they disappear much faster, especially if you're sharing them with friends and family. For the best taste and texture, it's recommended to consume them within the first week.

Fun Ways to Use Marshmallows

Beyond enjoying them straight out of the pan, there are countless ways to incorporate your homemade marshmallows into various recipes. Use them to top off a decadent hot chocolate, or melt them into a creamy rice crispy treat for a classic dessert. They also make excellent additions to ice cream sundaes or can be roasted over a campfire for a nostalgic outdoor treat.

For a creative twist, consider using marshmallows in baking. Chopped marshmallows can be folded into cookie dough or used as a filling in cakes and pastries. The possibilities are endless, and each new creation will highlight the delightful texture and flavor of your homemade marshmallows.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different sweetener?

While granulated sugar works best, you can experiment with honey or agave syrup, but the texture may vary.

→ How should I store homemade marshmallows?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.

→ Can I add food coloring?

Yes, you can add food coloring during the mixing process for fun, colorful marshmallows.

→ What can I use homemade marshmallows for?

They are great for s'mores, as toppings for hot chocolate, or enjoyed on their own!