Marshmallows are a classic treat that are enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you like toasting them over a campfire or adding them to your hot chocolate, marshmallows are a versatile and delicious treat that can be made at home. Making your own marshmallows is also a fun and rewarding experience that can be shared with friends and family. In this article, we will walk you through the steps of how to make marshmallows at home.
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp unflavored gelatin powder
- 1 cup cold water, divided
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
Equipment:
- Stand mixer
- Candy thermometer
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Cooking spray
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Rubber spatula
Instructions:
- Prepare your baking dish by lightly spraying it with cooking spray. Set it aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, sprinkle the gelatin powder over 1/2 cup of cold water. Let it sit while you prepare the sugar syrup.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and remaining 1/2 cup of water. Stir to combine.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and insert a candy thermometer. Cook the sugar syrup until it reaches 240°F, also known as the soft ball stage.
- Once the sugar syrup reaches 240°F, remove it from the heat and slowly pour it into the bowl of the stand mixer with the gelatin mixture. Be careful not to let the hot syrup splash onto your skin.
- Using the whisk attachment, beat the mixture on high speed for 10-12 minutes, until it becomes thick and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and continue to beat for another 2 minutes.
- Pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared baking dish and use a rubber spatula to smooth it out. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 6 hours, or overnight, until it sets.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and cornstarch. Cut the marshmallows into desired shapes using a sharp knife or cookie cutters, and toss them in the powdered sugar mixture to coat.
- Serve and enjoy your homemade marshmallows!
Tips:
- To make flavored marshmallows, add a few drops of food coloring and/or flavored extract to the marshmallow mixture before beating it.
- You can also use a piping bag to pipe the marshmallow mixture into shapes instead of pouring it into a baking dish.
- Store the marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
In conclusion, making marshmallows at home is a fun and delicious project that anyone can do. With a few simple ingredients and tools, you can create fluffy and sweet marshmallows that are perfect for snacking or sharing. So why not give it a try and impress your friends and family with your homemade marshmallows!