Homemade Marshmallows
Indulge in the delightful world of homemade marshmallows! These fluffy, sweet confections are not only fun to make but also incredibly delicious. Whether you enjoy them in hot cocoa, s’mores, or just as a sweet treat on their own, homemade marshmallows elevate any dessert. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a batch that rivals store-bought versions. Let’s dive into this sweet adventure!
Ingredients
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup corn syrup
– ½ cup water
– 2 packets unflavored gelatin
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 24 marshmallows. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with an additional 4 hours for setting.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of homemade marshmallows (2 pieces) contains approximately 100 calories, 0g fat, 26g carbohydrates, 0g protein, and 20g sugar. This is based on a serving size of two marshmallows.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over ½ cup of cold water and let it bloom for about 10 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and ½ cup of water. Mix well.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook without stirring until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage).
5. Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
6. Add salt and vanilla extract, mixing well.
7. Pour the mixture into a stand mixer bowl and beat on high speed for about 10-15 minutes until fluffy and tripled in volume.
8. Prepare a baking pan by greasing it and dusting with powdered sugar.
9. Pour the marshmallow mixture into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
10. Dust the top with more powdered sugar and let it set for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute corn syrup with honey or agave syrup for a different flavor. For a vegan option, use agar-agar instead of gelatin. Adjust the sweetener based on your preference.
Serving and Pairings
These marshmallows are perfect on their own or can be served with hot chocolate, as toppings for desserts, or used in s’mores. They also make delightful gifts when packaged in jars.
Storage and Reheating
Store homemade marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They can be frozen, but make sure to dust them with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid stirring the sugar mixture once it starts boiling.
– Make sure your gelatin is fully bloomed before adding it to the hot mixture.
– Use a candy thermometer to ensure the correct temperature.
– Don’t skip dusting with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
– Allow sufficient time for marshmallows to set.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with flavors by adding extracts like peppermint or almond.
– Use food coloring for a fun twist on presentation.
– Try adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
– Ensure your utensils and workspace are clean and dry for best results.
FAQs
Can I make marshmallows without gelatin?
Yes, you can use agar-agar as a plant-based alternative to gelatin, but the texture may differ slightly.
How long do homemade marshmallows last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to two weeks at room temperature.
Can I flavor my marshmallows?
Absolutely! You can add various extracts or flavorings to the mixture before beating it.
Are homemade marshmallows worth the effort?
Yes! They are fresher, customizable, and often tastier than store-bought options.
Can I use different sugars?
You can experiment with different types of sugar, but adjust the quantities as needed since they have varying sweetness levels.
Conclusion
Making homemade marshmallows is a fun and rewarding experience! With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create fluffy, sweet treats that will impress family and friends. Enjoy them in various ways or simply savor their delightful taste on their own. Happy cooking!
Homemade Marshmallows
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- 2 packets unflavored gelatin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Sprinkle gelatin over ½ cup of cold water and let it bloom for about 10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and ½ cup of water. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves.
- Bring to a boil and cook until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage).
- Remove from heat and stir in bloomed gelatin until dissolved.
- Add salt and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Pour into a stand mixer bowl and beat on high speed for about 10-15 minutes until fluffy.
- Prepare a greased baking pan and dust with powdered sugar.
- Pour marshmallow mixture into the pan and smooth the top.
- Dust the top with more powdered sugar and let set for at least 4 hours.
- Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
