Homemade Cotton Candy Marshmallows: Light, Fluffy, and Irresistibly Sweet
These Homemade Cotton Candy Marshmallows are a dreamy treat that combines the nostalgic sweetness of cotton candy with the pillowy softness of marshmallows. Perfect for parties, gifts, or a fun kitchen project, these marshmallows are infused with the whimsical flavor of cotton candy, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant pastel hues will transport you straight to a carnival.
Making marshmallows from scratch might sound intimidating, but with a few simple steps, you can create these delightful confections at home. The process is surprisingly rewarding, and the result is far superior to store-bought versions. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with a unique and delicious treat.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: These marshmallows are infused with the sweet, nostalgic taste of cotton candy, balanced by a hint of vanilla for depth.
- Texture: Light, airy, and melt-in-your-mouth soft, with a delicate chewiness that’s utterly satisfying.
- Aroma: The scent of cotton candy fills the air as you make these marshmallows, evoking memories of fairs and festivals.
- Visual Appeal: Pastel-colored marshmallows that are as beautiful as they are delicious, perfect for gifting or party platters.
- Skill Level Needed: Intermediate, as it involves working with sugar syrup and gelatin, but the steps are straightforward with a little patience.
- Special Equipment: A stand mixer, candy thermometer, and a square baking pan are essential for success.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: This recipe is intermediate due to the need for precise temperature control and handling of sugar syrup. However, with careful attention, even beginners can achieve great results.
- Category: Dessert, Confectionery
- Cuisine: American, with a playful twist inspired by carnival treats.
- Cost: Affordable, with most ingredients being pantry staples. Cotton candy flavoring is the only specialty item needed.
- Season: Perfect year-round, but especially delightful during spring and summer for outdoor gatherings.
- Occasion: Ideal for birthday parties, baby showers, or as a fun homemade gift.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Homemade Cotton Candy Marshmallows are a feast for the senses. The combination of fluffy texture and sweet cotton candy flavor is irresistible. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or adding a whimsical touch to desserts like hot chocolate or s’mores.
Making marshmallows at home is surprisingly simple and allows you to customize flavors and colors. This recipe uses natural cotton candy flavoring, but you can experiment with other extracts to create unique variations. Plus, homemade marshmallows are free from preservatives and artificial additives, making them a healthier option.
These marshmallows are also a fantastic way to bring people together. Whether you’re making them with kids or sharing them at a party, they’re sure to spark joy and conversation. Their vibrant colors and playful flavor make them a standout treat for any occasion.
From a cost perspective, homemade marshmallows are incredibly economical. A single batch yields 24 marshmallows, and the ingredients are affordable and easy to find. You’ll save money compared to buying gourmet marshmallows at the store.
Finally, these marshmallows are versatile. Use them in desserts, as a topping for cupcakes, or simply enjoy them on their own. They’re a delightful way to add a touch of magic to your culinary creations.
The Recipe
Homemade Cotton Candy Marshmallows
Serves: 24 marshmallows
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Stand mixer with whisk attachment
- Candy thermometer
- 8×8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Small saucepan
- Offset spatula
Ingredients
- 3 packets unflavored gelatin (about 21g)
- 1 cup cold water, divided
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cotton candy flavoring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pink and blue food coloring (optional)
- ½ cup powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture (for dusting)
Directions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Dust with the powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture.
- Bloom the gelatin: In the bowl of a stand mixer, sprinkle gelatin over ½ cup of cold water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to bloom.
- Make the sugar syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and the remaining ½ cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Attach a candy thermometer and cook until the mixture reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage).
- Whip the mixture: With the mixer on low, carefully pour the hot syrup into the gelatin mixture. Gradually increase the speed to high and whip for 10-12 minutes, until thick and fluffy.
- Add flavor and color: Mix in the cotton candy flavoring and vanilla extract. If desired, divide the mixture into two bowls and tint one pink and one blue.
- Assemble: Pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan, alternating colors if using. Smooth the top with an offset spatula.
- Set and cut: Let the marshmallows set at room temperature for 4-6 hours or overnight. Dust with more powdered sugar mixture, then cut into squares.
Recipe Notes
- Store marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- For a fun twist, try using other flavor extracts like strawberry or bubblegum.
- If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into cold water. It should form a soft ball.
