Homemade Marshmallows

INTRODUCTION

Marshmallows are a delightful treat that many people love. They are soft, fluffy, and melt in your mouth. Making homemade marshmallows is a simple process that allows you to create these sweet snacks from scratch. You can enjoy them on their own, in hot chocolate, or toasted over a campfire. Making marshmallows at home is a fun activity that also gives you the chance to create a tasty treat that is better than store-bought.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This homemade marshmallow recipe is easy to follow, and the results are amazing. When you make marshmallows at home, you can control the ingredients and flavors. You can add your favorite extracts or even food coloring if you want. Homemade marshmallows are very fluffy and have a fresh taste that you cannot find in packaged ones. They also make a great gift or party treat. Plus, once you’ve tried them, you may never want to go back to store-bought again!

HOW TO MAKE Homemade Marshmallows

Making homemade marshmallows is not as difficult as it may seem. With just a few ingredients and some time, you can create a batch of fluffy marshmallows that will impress everyone. Here’s how you can do it step-by-step.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make homemade marshmallows, you need some basic kitchen equipment. Here’s what you will need:

• A medium mixing bowl
• An electric stand mixer
• A saucepan
• A measuring cup
• A whisk
• A baking dish (13 by 9 inches)
• Aluminum foil
• Non-stick cooking spray
• A cutting board
• A sifter or fine mesh strainer

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2/3 cup (80g) powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup (46g) cornstarch
• 1 cup (235ml) cold water, divided
• 2 1/2 Tbsp (24g) unflavored gelatin powder
• 2/3 cup (155ml) light corn syrup
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch. Once mixed, set it aside.

2. Line a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with aluminum foil. Make sure to spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

3. In the bowl of your electric stand mixer, add 1/2 cup of cold water. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the water and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This allows the gelatin to bloom.

4. In a saucepan, combine the remaining water and light corn syrup. Add the granulated sugar and salt in the center of the mixture.

5. Heat the saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches 240 degrees Fahrenheit. This will take about 6-8 minutes.

6. Slowly pour the hot sugar mixture into the gelatin mixture while whisking on low speed. Be careful to pour it slowly, so it combines well.

7. Gradually increase the mixer speed to high and whip the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 5-12 minutes.

8. Add the vanilla extract and mix for another 15 seconds.

9. Scrape the marshmallow mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula.

10. Sift a layer of powdered sugar over the top of the marshmallows to prevent them from sticking.

11. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it set for 12 hours at room temperature.

12. After 12 hours, dust a cutting board with powdered sugar. Invert the marshmallows onto the board and cut them into your desired sizes.

13. Toss the cut pieces in the remaining powdered sugar to coat them evenly.

14. Store the marshmallows in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

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HOW TO SERVE Homemade Marshmallows

There are many wonderful ways to serve your homemade marshmallows. You can simply eat them as they are, or you can use them in different recipes. Here are some ideas for serving:

• Hot Chocolate: Add marshmallows to a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy drink.
• S’mores: Toast marshmallows over a fire and sandwich them with chocolate and graham crackers.
• Desserts: Use marshmallows in desserts such as rice crispy treats or on top of pies.
• Gift Bags: Package them in cute bags for gifts or party favors.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Homemade Marshmallows

To keep your marshmallows fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. To freeze marshmallows, place them in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for air. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Here are some great serving suggestions for your homemade marshmallows:

• Pair them with chocolate dipping sauces for a fun dessert.
• Mix them into ice cream for added sweetness and texture.
• Create a festive treat by adding sprinkles on top.
• Use them as toppings for cupcakes or cakes.

VARIATIONS

You can easily change the flavor and look of your homemade marshmallows. Here are some variations you can try:

• Mint Flavored: Add a few drops of mint extract instead of vanilla for a refreshing twist.
• Chocolate Coated: Dip the finished marshmallows in melted chocolate and let them set.
• Fruit Flavored: Use fruit extracts like raspberry or orange for a fruity flavor.
• Colored Marshmallows: Add food coloring to the mixture for a fun, bright look.

FAQs

1. Can I use gelatin sheets instead of powder?
   Yes, you can use gelatin sheets. Just make sure to follow the package instructions to substitute them correctly.

2. What can I use if I don’t have light corn syrup?
   You can use honey or glucose syrup as a substitute for light corn syrup in this recipe.

3. Can I add other flavors to my marshmallows?
   Absolutely! You can add different extracts like almond, coconut, or even spices like cinnamon for a unique flavor.

4. Why did my marshmallows not set?
   If your marshmallows didn’t set, it may be due to not reaching the right temperature during cooking or not allowing enough setting time.

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MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Homemade Marshmallows

If you want to prepare marshmallows ahead of time, you can make them a few days in advance. Follow the steps in the recipe, and make sure they are stored in an airtight container. This will help maintain their freshness. If you know you will be using them for a special occasion, making them ahead is a great way to save time on the day of the event. Just remember to dust them with powdered sugar before serving to keep them from sticking together.

Homemade marshmallows are a yummy and rewarding treat to make. Whether you enjoy them on their own or use them in other recipes, they are sure to bring joy to anyone who tries them. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the sweet taste of homemade marshmallows!

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