Making homemade marshmallows is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding.
With just three basic ingredients, you can create fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth marshmallows that are far superior to store-bought versions.
Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious marshmallows ready to enjoy in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 2 packets of unflavored gelatin (14 grams)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Tools Needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Electric mixer (stand or hand mixer)
- Parchment paper
- Baking dish or container
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Gelatin Mixture:
- Begin by combining 1/2 cup of boiling water with the 2 packets of gelatin in a mixing bowl.
- Stir the mixture until the gelatin is fully dissolved and set it aside.
2. Make the Sugar Syrup:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar with 1/2 cup of water.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Continue to heat the mixture until it reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the “soft-ball” stage.
3. Combine and Whip:
- Once the sugar syrup reaches 240°F, carefully pour it into the bowl with the dissolved gelatin.
- Start mixing on low speed to combine the ingredients, then gradually increase the speed to high.
- Continue mixing on high speed for about 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture forms medium peaks. It will become thick, glossy, and increase in volume significantly.
4. Prepare the Container:
- Line your baking dish or container with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over the sides for easy removal later.
- Generously dust the parchment paper with powdered sugar. (Make sure your powdered sugar contains cornstarch, as this helps prevent sticking.)
5. Transfer the Marshmallow Mixture:
- Use a tiny bit of water on your hands to help spread the marshmallow mixture evenly into the prepared container. The water prevents the sticky mixture from adhering to your hands.
- Once spread evenly, dust the top of the marshmallow mixture with more powdered sugar.
6. Let it Set:
- Allow the marshmallows to set at room temperature for at least 3-4 hours. This allows them to firm up and become easier to handle.
7. Slice and Enjoy:
- Once set, use the parchment paper to lift the marshmallow slab from the container.
- Dust a sharp knife with powdered sugar and slice the marshmallows into your desired shapes and sizes.
- Enjoy your homemade marshmallows as a sweet treat on their own, or use them in hot cocoa, s’mores, or any other marshmallow recipe you love!
Tips and Variations:
- Flavoring: Add a splash of vanilla extract or your favorite flavoring to the gelatin mixture for a personalized touch.
- Coloring: For a fun twist, add a few drops of food coloring to the mixture before whipping it.
- Coating: Roll the cut marshmallows in a mixture of powdered sugar and cornstarch to keep them from sticking to each other.
Homemade marshmallows are not only delicious but also a fantastic treat to share with family and friends.
Enjoy the process and the delightful results of your homemade confections!