Homemade Marshmallows

Name: Homemade Marshmallows
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 20 marshmallows
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup water; 1 tablespoon gelatin; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Discover the joy of making your own fluffy, delicious marshmallows at home with this easy recipe.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:30:58.822Z

Making homemade marshmallows is a fun and rewarding process. Not only do they taste better than store-bought, but you can also customize them with flavors and colors!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Customizable flavors and colors to suit any occasion
Perfect for hot chocolate, s'mores, or just as a sweet treat

      

The Magic of Homemade Marshmallows

Making marshmallows at home is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it's an experience that brings back the nostalgic joy of childhood. The process involves transforming simple ingredients into fluffy, airy treats. The best part? You can customize them to match your favorite flavors and colors, making each batch a unique creation. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all for yourself, homemade marshmallows are a delightful treat that will impress everyone.

Unlike store-bought marshmallows, homemade versions are free from preservatives and artificial ingredients. This allows you to control the quality of what you eat. Plus, the satisfaction of biting into a soft, freshly made marshmallow is unparalleled. When you make them yourself, you’ll appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each fluffy piece, knowing exactly what goes into your treats.

Perfect Pairings for Marshmallows

Homemade marshmallows are incredibly versatile and can elevate many desserts and snacks. One of the best ways to enjoy them is in a steaming mug of hot chocolate. The marshmallows melt beautifully, creating a creamy, dreamy experience with every sip. You can even toast them lightly for a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness wonderfully.

Another classic pairing is s'mores. With homemade marshmallows, your s'mores will reach new heights of deliciousness. The soft, chewy texture combined with rich chocolate and crunchy graham crackers creates a perfect balance of flavors. You can also experiment by adding flavored marshmallows to your s'mores for an exciting twist.

Tips for Success

Ingredients

Marshmallow Ingredients

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon gelatin
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin

In a bowl, combine gelatin and 1/2 cup of cold water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to bloom.

Make the Sugar Syrup

In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of water. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C).

Combine and Whip

Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the bloomed gelatin while mixing at high speed. Add vanilla and salt, and continue whipping until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy.

Set the Marshmallows

Spread the marshmallow mixture into a greased pan, smoothing the top. Dust with powdered sugar and let it set for at least 4 hours.

Cut and Enjoy

Once set, dust the top with more powdered sugar, cut into squares, and enjoy your homemade marshmallows!

Store your marshmallows in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Storing Your Marshmallows

Once you've cut your marshmallows into squares, you may wonder how best to store them. Keep your homemade marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their soft texture and prevent them from hardening. If stored properly, they can last for up to two weeks, but good luck keeping them around that long!

For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the marshmallows in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature. They may lose a bit of their original texture but will still taste delicious.

Creative Flavor Ideas

Why stick to the classic vanilla flavor when you can experiment with a variety of tastes? Try adding a few drops of mint extract for a refreshing minty marshmallow, or incorporate some cocoa powder for a chocolatey version. You can even fold in crushed cookies, nuts, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

For a festive touch, consider using food coloring and flavored extracts to create themed marshmallows. Perfect for holiday parties, you could make pumpkin spice marshmallows for fall or vibrant fruit-flavored marshmallows for summer gatherings. The possibilities are endless, and your creativity will make your homemade marshmallows truly special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored?

Yes, but it will change the texture and flavor of the marshmallows.

→ How long do homemade marshmallows last?

They can last for about 3 weeks if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I use honey instead of sugar?

Honey can be used, but it may alter the texture and sweetness of the marshmallows.

→ What can I use these marshmallows for?

They are perfect for s'mores, hot cocoa, or simply enjoying as a sweet treat!