Foolproof Easy Homemade Marshmallows

Foolproof Easy Homemade Marshmallows

Making homemade marshmallows might sound intimidating, but with this foolproof recipe, you’ll find it surprisingly simple and rewarding. Soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, these marshmallows are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed on their own, added to hot cocoa, or used in your favorite desserts. Follow along with this step-by-step guide to create your very own batch of these delightful confections.

Ingredients

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ⅓ cup cornstarch
• 1 cup cold water, divided
• 2½ tablespoons unflavored gelatin (about 3 [0.25-ounce] packets)
• ⅔ cup light corn syrup
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

1. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring the parchment extends beyond the edges of the pan for easy removal later.
2. Spray the parchment paper liberally with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of powdered sugar and all of the cornstarch.
2. Set the mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Bloom the Gelatin

1. Pour ½ cup of the cold water into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment.
2. Sprinkle the gelatin over the water and let it sit until it blooms and becomes firm, about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Syrup

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining ½ cup of water and the corn syrup.
2. Pour the granulated sugar into the center of the saucepan and add the salt.
3. Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved.
4. Continue boiling until the syrup reaches 240°F (115°C), which should take about 8-10 minutes.

Step 5: Whip the Marshmallow Mixture

1. Turn the mixer on low speed and carefully pour the hot syrup directly into the bloomed gelatin, avoiding the sides of the bowl as much as possible.
2. Gradually increase the mixer speed to high and whip the mixture until it becomes very thick, white, and glossy, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until just incorporated, no more than 1 minute.

Step 6: Spread the Marshmallow

1. Working quickly, scrape the marshmallow mixture into your prepared pan using a silicone spatula that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Smooth the top into an even layer as swiftly as possible since the marshmallow will start to set fast.
3. Sift half of the powdered sugar-cornstarch mixture over the marshmallow slab.
4. Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature overnight.

Step 7: Cut and Coat the Marshmallows

1. The next day, turn the marshmallow out onto a cutting board lined with parchment paper.
2. Peel off the parchment from the bottom of the marshmallow slab.
3. Sift the remaining powdered sugar-cornstarch mixture over the marshmallow slab.
4. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife sprayed with non-stick cooking spray, cut the marshmallows into 1-inch squares. You can also use cookie cutters for fun shapes.
5. Place the remaining ½ cup of powdered sugar in a large zip-top bag. Working with 3 or 4 marshmallows at a time, toss them in the bag with the powdered sugar mixture, then use a fine-mesh strainer to remove any excess powder.

Storage

Store your homemade marshmallows in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy them as a snack, in hot cocoa, or as part of your favorite dessert recipes!

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Making marshmallows from scratch might become your new favorite kitchen project. With just a few ingredients and some careful steps, you can create these fluffy, sweet treats that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this foolproof recipe is a great way to dive into the world of homemade confections.

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