I. Introduction
Marshmallows are one of the most beloved treats in the world. They have a fluffy, spongy texture and a sweet taste that can be enjoyed on their own or used as an ingredient in a variety of desserts. Making marshmallows from scratch couldn’t be easier, and the result is a delicious, homemade treat that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
II. Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own marshmallows:
- 3 packages of unflavored gelatin (1/4 oz each)
- 1 cup of cold water, divided
- 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of light corn syrup
- 1/4 tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of cornstarch
- 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
Equipment:
- A stand mixer or hand mixer
- A candy thermometer
- A large mixing bowl
- A rubber spatula
- A 9×13 inch baking dish
- A sifter or sieve
- Non-stick cooking spray
Now let’s get started:
- First, spray the baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and powdered sugar together. Sift the mixture over the greased baking dish, making sure to coat the bottom and sides evenly. Set the dish aside.
- Place the gelatin and 1/2 cup of cold water in the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl if using a hand mixer). Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to soften the gelatin.
- In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and the remaining 1/2 cup of water. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
- Place the candy thermometer in the saucepan and continue cooking the mixture without stirring until it reaches 240°F (115°C) on the thermometer. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
- With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour the hot sugar mixture into the gelatin mixture. Increase the speed to high and beat the mixture for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes thick and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and beat for another minute.
- Quickly pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top. Dust the top with some of the remaining cornstarch mixture and let it sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until it sets.
- When the marshmallows are ready, dust a clean surface with more of the cornstarch mixture. Run a knife or spatula around the edges of the baking dish to loosen the marshmallow block and turn it out onto the dusted surface.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the marshmallows into squares or your desired shapes. Dust the cut marshmallows with the remaining cornstarch mixture to prevent them from sticking to each other.
- Store the marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy!
Some tips for troubleshooting:
- If the marshmallow mixture is too runny, you may have overbeaten it or not cooked the sugar syrup enough.
- If the marshmallows are too soft or sticky, you may have used too little cornstarch mixture or not let the marshmallows set long enough.
- You can use different flavor extracts, such as almond or coconut, to give your marshmallows a unique twist. You can also mix in food coloring for more variety.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with the texture by using different types of sweeteners or adding different thickeners, such as agar agar or xanthan gum.
Here’s an illustration of the steps:
III. Recipe Variation Ideas
If you want to try something different with your marshmallows, here are some ideas for variations:
- Replace the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a healthier option.
- Add a teaspoon of lavender extract for a floral, fragrant taste.
- Stir in some cocoa powder and mini chocolate chips for a s’mores-inspired marshmallow.
- Add some finely chopped nuts or crushed graham crackers to the cornstarch mixture for some extra crunch.
Keep in mind that these variations can affect the texture and consistency of the marshmallows, so make sure to adjust the recipe accordingly.
IV. Kids-Friendly Recipe
Marshmallow making can be a fun activity for kids. Here’s a simplified version of the recipe that is easy to follow:
- 1 package of unflavored gelatin (1/4 oz)
- 1/2 cup of cold water, divided
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of light corn syrup
- 1/8 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of powdered sugar
Equipment:
- A large mixing bowl
- A hand mixer or whisk
- A saucepan or pot
- A sifter or sieve
- Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
- Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together the gelatin and 1/4 cup of cold water. Set it aside.
- In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and the remaining 1/4 cup of water. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
- Place the candy thermometer in the saucepan and continue cooking the mixture without stirring until it reaches 240°F (115°C) on the thermometer.
- Slowly pour the hot sugar mixture into the gelatin mixture while mixing on low speed. Increase to high speed and continue mixing for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes thick and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix for another minute.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and let it set for at least 2 hours.
- When the marshmallows are ready, dust a clean surface with the cornstarch mixture and turn out the marshmallow block onto it.
- Cut the marshmallows into squares or shapes using a cookie cutter. Dust with the remaining cornstarch mixture and enjoy!
Make sure to supervise children when handling hot sugar mixtures and sharp knives or cookie cutters.
V. Video Tutorial
To make marshmallow making even easier, check out this video tutorial:
This tutorial follows the step-by-step guide we provided earlier and also offers tips for variation and troubleshooting. It’s a great way to learn visually and get some inspiration for your own marshmallow creations!
VI. History and Fun Facts
Did you know that marshmallows were originally made from the sap of mallow plants and used by ancient Egyptians for medicinal purposes? The modern marshmallow as we know it today was first invented in France in the early 19th century, using gelatin instead of mallow sap.
Today, marshmallows are an important part of American culture and tradition, particularly during holidays like Easter and Halloween. In fact, Americans consume over 90 million pounds of marshmallows every year!
Fun fact: marshmallows were also used as insulation for soldiers’ clothing during World War II because of their heat-resistant properties.
VII. Sharing Experience – Make with a friend
Making marshmallows can be a social activity that brings people together. Here are some tips and ideas for making it even more fun:
- Invite a friend over and make marshmallows together. You can split the recipe and make different variations or create a competition out of it.
- Host a marshmallow-themed party with different flavored hot chocolate and s’mores stations.
- Get creative with your marshmallows by using cookie cutters to make fun shapes or decorating them with sugar sprinkles and frosting.
- Use marshmallows as a bonding activity with your children or grandchildren.
By making marshmallows with others, you’re not only creating a delicious treat, but you’re also creating memories and bonding over a shared experience.
VIII. Conclusion
Making marshmallows from scratch is a fun and rewarding experience that yields delicious results. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you can create your own variations and experiment with this versatile treat. Through our step-by-step guide, variations, kid-friendly recipe, video tutorial, history and fun facts, and sharing experience, we hope we have inspired you to try something new and share it with others.
