Homemade Marshmallows

Homemade Marshmallows

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!

Author: Shubham Calmblay

Shubham Calmblay, founder of appsthatdeliver.com, has a decade of experience with various Google products. He has authored 1,000+ guides for ATD, published on prestigious tech blogs. His work has garnered recognition from Protocol.com, Leadsbridge.com, MadMobile.com, and numerous other leading publications and corporations.