How to Make Your Own Marshmallows: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making your own marshmallows at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only will you have complete control over the ingredients and flavorings, but you’ll also be able to customize them to your liking. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of making your own marshmallows from scratch.
What You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to get started:
- Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (110g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60g) cornstarch
- 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup (120ml) water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120g) gelatin
- Equipment:
- A medium-sized saucepan
- A hand mixer or stand mixer
- A 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish
- A spatula
- A whisk
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin
The first step in making marshmallows is to prepare the gelatin. Gelatin is the key ingredient that gives marshmallows their fluffy texture. To prepare the gelatin, you’ll need to soak it in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This will help the gelatin dissolve evenly and prevent it from forming lumps.
Step 2: Combine the Sugar, Cornstarch, and Corn Syrup
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and corn syrup. Make sure to use a medium-sized saucepan, as the mixture will expand significantly as it cooks. Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
Step 3: Bring the Mixture to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 230°F (110°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the most important step in making marshmallows, as it will determine the texture and consistency of the final product.
Step 4: Remove from Heat and Whisk
Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the water, salt, and vanilla extract. Make sure to whisk quickly and thoroughly, as the mixture will start to set quickly.
Step 5: Add the Gelatin Mixture
Add the gelatin mixture to the saucepan and whisk until it’s fully incorporated. Make sure to whisk until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps.
Step 6: Whip the Mixture
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the mixture on high speed for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes thick and fluffy. You may need to stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Step 7: Pour into a Baking Dish
Pour the marshmallow mixture into a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish that has been greased with butter or cooking spray. Make sure to grease the dish well, as the marshmallows will stick to it if you don’t.
Step 8: Allow to Set
Allow the marshmallow mixture to set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This is the most important step in making marshmallows, as it will allow the mixture to set and become firm.
Step 9: Cut and Dust
Once the marshmallows have set, remove them from the baking dish and cut them into desired shapes using a sharp knife or cookie cutter. Make sure to cut the marshmallows quickly and cleanly, as they will start to break down if you don’t. Dust the marshmallows with powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when making your own marshmallows:
- Flavorings: You can add different flavorings to your marshmallows, such as extracts (e.g. vanilla, almond), oils (e.g. peppermint, lemon), or even cocoa powder.
- Colors: You can add a few drops of food coloring to your marshmallows to give them a fun and festive color.
- Shapes: You can cut your marshmallows into different shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.
- Storage: Store your marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Conclusion
Making your own marshmallows at home is a fun and rewarding experience. With these simple steps and tips, you can create delicious and fluffy marshmallows that are perfect for snacking, baking, or even gift-giving. Remember to be patient and take your time, as making marshmallows can be a bit of a process. Happy marshmallow-making!