Looking for a delicious and easy homemade marshmallows recipe that doesn’t involve corn syrup? Look no further! Our recipe will show you how to make fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth marshmallows with just a few simple ingredients.
Are you tired of store-bought marshmallows that are loaded with artificial ingredients and high-fructose corn syrup? Look no further than this homemade marshmallow recipe that is free from corn syrup and made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
These fluffy marshmallows are easy to make and perfect for snacking on their own, adding to hot cocoa, or for pairing with homemade graham crackers like THESE and making s’mores.
What ingredients are homemade marshmallows made from?
One of the main reasons to make homemade marshmallows is that you have complete control over the ingredients. The basic recipe consists of sugar, water, gelatin, and vanilla extract.
Instead of using corn syrup like store-bought marshmallows, this recipe uses granulated sugar to sweeten the marshmallows. Corn syrup is often used in store-bought marshmallows because it helps to prevent the sugar from crystallizing and creates a smooth, consistent texture.
However, corn syrup has been linked to numerous health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. By using granulated sugar instead, you can create a healthier and more natural version of this classic treat.
Why are my homemade marshmallows not fluffy?
If your homemade marshmallows aren’t turning out as fluffy as you’d like, there could be a few different reasons. One cause of failed marshmallows is stirring the sugar syrup mixture while you’re heating it. Doing this will cause the sugar to crystalize and will cause your marshmallows to be flat and have a bad texture.
Not reaching the correct temperature will cause a failure too. You’re looking for the syrup to reach a soft ball candy stage before you beat it. This is why I highly recommend you use a candy thermometer instead of eyeballing it.
Another possible cause is that you didn’t beat the marshmallow mixture for long enough or that you used the regular beaters on your stand mixer. You need to use the whisk attachment that comes with your mixer. Regular beaters will give your final product an off texture. The beating process is what creates the marshmallow’s signature fluffy texture, so it’s important to beat the mixture until it becomes thick, glossy, and tripled in volume.
One final cause is that you didn’t use enough gelatin. Gelatin is what gives marshmallows their structure, so if you don’t use enough, the marshmallows can turn out flat or dense.
Finally, make sure you’re using fresh ingredients and following the recipe carefully, as small variations can impact the final product. By troubleshooting these potential issues and adjusting your technique, you can achieve perfectly fluffy homemade marshmallows every time.
How long do homemade marshmallow keep and how do you store homemade marshmallows??
Homemade marshmallows can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two weeks. However, their texture and flavor may start to degrade over time. I personally find that they’re best when eaten within a week.
For longer storage, homemade marshmallows can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze marshmallows, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and make sure to remove as much air as possible. When you’re ready to use them, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few hours before consuming.
How do you preserve homemade marshmallows?
If you’re looking for a way to preserve your homemade marshmallows for the long term, you may want to consider dehydrating them. Dehydrated marshmallows can be stored for several months, and they make a great addition to trail mix, cereal, or even as a standalone snack.
To dehydrate your marshmallows, spread them out on a dehydrator tray and set the temperature to 135°F. It should take about 12-24 hours to fully dehydrate them, depending on the size and thickness of the marshmallows. Once they’re fully dehydrated, store them in mylar bags with oxygen absorbers to keep them fresh and extend their shelf life even further.
How to make flavored homemade marshmallows
One of the great things about homemade marshmallows is that they’re incredibly versatile. You can use flavored instead of unflavored gelatin or colors to your marshmallows by incorporating extracts, food coloring, or even fruit purees. Strawberry, peppermint, orange or cherry are all great ideas for flavoring your candy.
You can also experiment with different textures by adjusting the amount of gelatin you use. For a firmer, chewier marshmallow, use more gelatin, and for a softer, fluffier marshmallow, use less.
In addition to being a delicious treat, homemade marshmallows also make a great gift or party favor; especially when combined with homemade hot chocolate mix. You can package them in cellophane treat bags tied with ribbon or place them in small jars with customized labels. They’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. You can make your gifts or treats even more special by using cookie cutters to create shapes once you have poured the hot sugar mixture and marshmallow fluff onto your baking dish.
Homemade Marshmallows
Equipment
- Stand Mixer, with whisk attachment OR
- Hand Mixer, with whisk attachment
Ingredients
- 1 .25 oz box Unflavored Gelatin
- 2 C. Granulated sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- ½ C. Powdered Sugar for dusting
- ¾ C. Water divided 1/2 c and 1/4 c.
- Cooking spray
- 1 tsp. Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Add 1/2 c.. Water and 1 .25 oz box Unflavored Gelatin in a medium mixing bowl and set aside until solidified.1 .25 oz box Unflavored Gelatin, 3/4 C. Water
- Add 1 pinch salt, 2 C. Granulated sugar and 1/4 c water to a medium saucepan and heat over high heat. Do not stir as this will cause crystals to form and your homemade marshmallows to fail. Heat to 240°F (soft ball stage).2 C. Granulated sugar, 3/4 C. Water, 1 pinch salt
- Once soft ball stage is reached, pour sugar mixture over gelatin mixture while using mixer whisk attachment on medium to combine. Once combined, beat on high until marshmallow fluff forms. Add 1 tsp. Vanilla Extract if using once fluff has formed and mix a few more seconds to incorporate.1 tsp. Vanilla Extract
- Spray baking dish with cooking spray and dust with powdered sugar.1/2 C. Powdered Sugar, Cooking spray
- Pour marshmallow fluff into baking pan. Smooth mixture out and dust top with powdered sugar.1/2 C. Powdered Sugar
- Allow to sit undisturbed for 2 hours. Once set, remove from baking dish and cut into sizes of your choosing. Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days or freeze up to 3-months for best quality.
Notes
- Nutrition facts are auto calculated. Please use discretion if you follow a special diet.
- To make flavors other than vanilla, use a flavored gelatin and omit vanilla.
- Homemade marshmallows will keep 7-days at room temperature if stored in an airtight container.
- They may be frozen up to 3-months.