Homemade Marshmallows

 

Making homemade marshmallows can be a fun and rewarding culinary adventure. Here's a basic recipe for homemade marshmallows. Keep in mind that this process requires careful attention to temperature, so using a candy thermometer is recommended.

Ingredients:

• 3 packages (21g) unflavored gelatin
• 1 cup cold water, divided
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare Pan:

   • Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
   • Dust the parchment paper generously with powdered sugar.

2. Bloom Gelatin:

   • In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the gelatin with 1/2 cup of cold water. Let it sit while you prepare the sugar syrup.

3. Make Sugar Syrup:

   • In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and the remaining 1/2 cup of water.
   • Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, increase the heat to high and let it boil without stirring until it reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.

4. Whip Gelatin:

   • While the sugar syrup is heating, use the whisk attachment on your stand mixer to whip the gelatin on low speed.

5. Combine Syrup and Gelatin:

   • Once the sugar syrup reaches 240°F (115°C), remove it from heat. With the mixer on low, slowly pour the hot syrup into the whipped gelatin.

6. Increase Speed:

   • Increase the mixer speed to high and continue whipping until the mixture is very thick and lukewarm, about 10-15 minutes. It should be fluffy and hold its shape.

7. Add Vanilla:

   • Add the vanilla extract during the last minute of whipping.

8. Transfer to Pan:

   • Quickly transfer the marshmallow mixture to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

9. Set and Cut:

   • Let the marshmallows set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
   • Dust the top with powdered sugar and use a sharp knife or cookie cutters to cut the marshmallows into squares or desired shapes.

10. Store:

    • Toss the cut marshmallows in additional powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
    • Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade marshmallows! You can get creative by adding different flavors or colors during the whipping process or by rolling the finished marshmallows in coconut, cocoa powder, or sprinkles.