Making homemade marshmallows is a fun and rewarding project that results in fluffy, sweet treats perfect for snacking or adding to hot cocoa.
With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, you can create your own delicious marshmallows. Here's a concise guide to help you through the process.
Ingredients
To make marshmallows, you will need:
- 3 packets of unflavored gelatin (about 21 grams)
- 1 cup ice-cold water, divided
- 12 ounces granulated sugar (approximately 1 ½ cups)
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup confectioners' sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- Nonstick spray for greasing
Equipment
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• 9x13 inch baking pan
• Spatula
• Candy thermometer (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Start by combining the gelatin with ½ cup of ice-cold water in a mixing bowl. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to bloom, which ensures the gelatin will dissolve properly later.
Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup
In a saucepan, mix the granulated sugar, corn syrup, the remaining ½ cup of water, and kosher salt. Heat the mixture on medium heat and stir until the sugar fully melts. Once dissolved, stop stirring and let it boil until it reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer. If you don't have a thermometer, you can drop a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft ball.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully pour the hot syrup into the bowl with the bloomed gelatin. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the mixture on high speed until it becomes thick, fluffy, and white, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Add the vanilla extract in the last minute of mixing.
Step 4: Prepare the Pan
While the mixture is whipping, grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. In a separate bowl, mix the confectioners' sugar and cornstarch, then dust the bottom and sides of the pan with this mixture to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Pour and Set
Pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle additional sugar-cornstarch blend on top, then allow it to rest at room temperature for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight.
Step 6: Cut and Store
Once set, turn the marshmallow slab out onto a clean surface dusted with the sugar-cornstarch mixture. Cut into squares and dust each piece to prevent sticking. Keep in a sealed container for several weeks.
Enjoy your homemade marshmallows in hot cocoa, s'mores, or as a sweet treat on their own!
