Gather Ingredients and Equipment
Before getting started, make sure you have the following ingredients and equipment:
- 3 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
- 1/2 cup of cold water
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
- Rectangular baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooking spray
- Candy thermometer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Knife
Prepare the Pan and Ingredients
Start by lining the baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring that it covers the sides as well. Lightly coat the paper with cooking spray to prevent the marshmallow mixture from sticking.
In a mixing bowl, combine the gelatin and 1/4 cup of cold water. Stir briefly to ensure the gelatin is evenly distributed, then set it aside to soften.
Create the Marshmallow Mixture
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and the remaining 1/4 cup of cold water. Stir the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved and it starts to boil.
Insert a candy thermometer into the saucepan and continue cooking the mixture until it reaches a temperature of 240°F (115°C). This step is crucial as it ensures the right consistency for the marshmallows.
Combine the Ingredients
Once the sugar syrup reaches the desired temperature, remove it from heat and slowly pour it into the softened gelatin mixture. Use an electric mixer on low speed to gradually increase the speed until you reach medium-high. Beat the mixture for around 10-15 minutes or until it becomes thick, glossy, and nearly tripled in volume. Add the vanilla extract during the final minutes of mixing.
Pour and Set
Transfer the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan, using a greased spatula to spread it evenly. Let it sit at room temperature for about 4-6 hours or until it becomes firm.
Cut and Coat the Marshmallows
In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar and cornstarch. Dust a clean surface with the mixture and invert the pan to release the marshmallow block. Use a greased knife to cut the marshmallows into desired shapes, dusting the sticky edges with the powdered sugar mixture to prevent sticking.
Enjoy Your Homemade Marshmallows
Your homemade marshmallows are now ready to enjoy! They can be eaten as is or used in various recipes. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Serve them with hot chocolate, sandwiched between cookies, or roast them over a campfire to make s’mores.
Now that you know how to prepare marshmallows from scratch, you can let your creativity run wild by experimenting with different flavors, colors, and toppings. Making your own marshmallows is not only rewarding, but it also guarantees a superior taste and texture compared to store-bought ones. Give it a try and indulge in the fluffy sweetness of homemade marshmallows!