Soft, fluffy, and bursting with sweet vanilla flavor, these homemade marshmallows are a perfect addition to hot cocoa, desserts, or enjoyed on their own. Making marshmallows from scratch may seem intimidating, but with a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll create a batch of marshmallows that are far superior to anything store-bought. These marshmallows are light, pillowy, and customizable—try dipping them in chocolate or dusting them with cocoa powder for an extra treat. They also make a lovely homemade gift!
Ingredients:
- 3 packets (7.5 tsp) unflavored gelatin
- 1 cup cold water, divided
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and generously dust with powdered sugar. Set aside.
- Bloom the gelatin: In a large mixing bowl (preferably of a stand mixer), sprinkle the gelatin over ½ cup of cold water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to bloom.
- Cook the sugar mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and the remaining ½ cup of cold water. Stir to combine. Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and cook over medium heat without stirring, until the mixture reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage). This will take about 8-10 minutes.
- Combine gelatin and sugar syrup: With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the bloomed gelatin. Once incorporated, gradually increase the speed to high and beat for about 10-12 minutes, until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and white. Add in the vanilla extract and beat for another minute to combine.
- Pour and set: Quickly pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Dust the top with more powdered sugar. Let the marshmallows sit at room temperature, uncovered, for at least 6 hours or overnight to set.
- Cut and serve: Once set, lift the marshmallow slab out of the pan using the parchment paper. Dust a knife or pizza cutter with powdered sugar and cut the marshmallows into squares. Toss the marshmallows in additional powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together.
Store in an airtight container for up to a week. Enjoy your homemade marshmallows in hot drinks, desserts, or on their own!
