Soft Pillowy Homemade Marshmallows (Print Version)

Create soft, pillowy vanilla marshmallows with simple ingredients. Perfect for hot chocolate, s'mores, or snacking.

# What You Need:

→ Sugar Syrup

01 - 1 cup granulated sugar
02 - 1 cup light corn syrup or glucose syrup
03 - 1/4 cup water
04 - 1/8 tsp salt

→ Gelatin Mixture

05 - 3 envelopes unflavored gelatin powder (21 g total)
06 - 1/2 cup cold water

→ Flavoring

07 - 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

→ Coating

08 - 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
09 - 1/2 cup cornstarch

# Directions:

01 - Line a 9x9-inch pan with parchment paper. Dust generously with half of the confectioners' sugar and cornstarch mixture, ensuring even coverage on bottom and sides.
02 - In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine gelatin powder with 1/2 cup cold water. Let stand for at least 10 minutes until the gelatin absorbs the liquid and becomes firm.
03 - In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, 1/4 cup water, and salt. Stir gently just to moisten the sugar.
04 - Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar completely dissolves. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a rolling boil without stirring. Cook until mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer, approximately 10-12 minutes.
05 - With stand mixer on low speed, carefully pour hot syrup into bloomed gelatin. Gradually increase speed to high and whip for 8-10 minutes until mixture is white, thick, and tripled in volume.
06 - Add vanilla extract and mix on medium speed for 30 seconds until fully incorporated.
07 - Working quickly before mixture sets, pour marshmallow into prepared pan. Use a damp spatula to smooth the top evenly. Dust surface with remaining confectioners' sugar and cornstarch mixture. Let stand uncovered at room temperature for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
08 - Turn set marshmallow slab onto a cutting board. Using a sharp knife dusted with powdered sugar, cut into 24 squares. Toss pieces in remaining sugar-cornstarch mixture to coat all sides completely.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Nothing compares to the texture of fresh marshmallows still slightly warm from the mixer
  • They make ordinary hot cocoa feel like a special occasion treat
  • The process transforms simple ingredients into something that feels luxurious and handmade
02 -
  • A candy thermometer is nonnegotiable for getting that perfect texture
  • Work fast once the marshmallow is whipped because it sets quickly
  • The mixture expands dramatically so use a stand mixer with plenty of room
03 -
  • Rub a little vegetable oil on your spatula before smoothing the marshmallow mixture to prevent sticking
  • If humidity is high, increase the cornstarch in your coating mixture slightly

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