Homemade Marshmallows

Name: Homemade Marshmallows
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 3 packets unflavored gelatin; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup light corn syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Learn how to make fluffy and delicious homemade marshmallows that are perfect for s'mores, hot chocolate, or just enjoying on their own.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:15:34.975Z

Making homemade marshmallows is a fun and rewarding experience. The texture is light and fluffy, and they can be customized with different flavors and colors. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a gift!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Customizable flavors and colors for any occasion
Perfect for roasting over a fire or adding to hot drinks

      

The Joy of Homemade Treats

Making marshmallows at home is not just about the end result; it's about the journey. This recipe invites you into the world of candy-making, where simple ingredients transform into a fluffy delight. The process is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to achieve success. Plus, the satisfaction of crafting your own treats adds a special touch to any gathering or cozy night in.

Homemade marshmallows can elevate your culinary creations. Whether you're topping a steaming cup of hot chocolate or making decadent s'mores, these fluffy morsels enhance every bite. They offer a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of chocolate and graham crackers, making your dessert experience truly unforgettable.

Versatility at Its Best

One of the best aspects of homemade marshmallows is their versatility. You can experiment with various flavors, such as peppermint, chocolate, or even fruit infusions. A few drops of food coloring can turn your marshmallows into vibrant treats that match any occasion, from birthday parties to holiday celebrations.

Additionally, you can easily customize the size and shape of your marshmallows. Whether you prefer them in classic cubes, festive shapes, or even giant marshmallows for roasting, the possibilities are endless. This flexibility means you can tailor your marshmallows to suit your personal taste or to impress your guests.

Tips for Success

When making marshmallows, precision is key. Ensure that your syrup reaches the correct temperature of 240°F (115°C) for optimal fluffiness. A candy thermometer is a helpful tool to guarantee accuracy, ensuring you achieve that perfect texture that melts in your mouth.

Additionally, greasing your baking dish is essential to make removing the marshmallows easier. Don't skip dusting with powdered sugar both before and after cutting to prevent sticking. These small steps can make a significant difference in the quality of your homemade marshmallows.

Ingredients

For the Marshmallows

1 cup water
3 packets unflavored gelatin
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure to have everything ready before you start, as the process is quick!

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of water with the gelatin and let it sit to bloom while you prepare the syrup.

Cook the Syrup

In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt with 1/2 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Whip the Mixture

Once the syrup reaches 240°F (115°C), remove it from heat and carefully pour it into the bloomed gelatin. Using a hand mixer, whip the mixture on high speed until it becomes thick and fluffy, about 10 minutes.

Add Flavor and Chill

Stir in the vanilla extract, then pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula and let it set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Cut and Dust

Once set, dust a clean surface with powdered sugar, turn the marshmallow slab out, and cut into squares. Dust the cut sides with more powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Enjoy your homemade marshmallows in your favorite recipes!

Serving Suggestions

Homemade marshmallows are a delightful addition to many treats. Try roasting them over an open flame for a classic s'mores experience, or simply drop them into a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy treat. Their light texture adds an irresistible sweetness that complements rich flavors beautifully.

You can also incorporate these marshmallows into desserts like rice crispy treats or use them as a topping for cakes and cupcakes. Their fluffy nature provides a wonderful contrast to denser desserts, making them a versatile ingredient in your baking repertoire.

Storage Tips

To keep your homemade marshmallows fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their soft, fluffy texture. If they start to get sticky, simply dust them with a bit more powdered sugar to help absorb moisture.

For longer storage, you can freeze your marshmallows. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy, allow them to come to room temperature before using them in your favorite recipes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored?

No, flavored gelatin will not provide the proper texture for marshmallows.

→ How long do homemade marshmallows last?

They can last up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes, you can use agar-agar as a substitute for gelatin.

→ What can I do with leftover marshmallows?

You can use them in recipes like Rice Krispie treats or simply roast them over a fire.