Cotton Candy Marshmallows

Marshmallows have long been a beloved staple in desserts and snacks, captivating both young and old with their unique texture and delightful sweetness. From classic s'mores to fluffy toppings on hot cocoa, marshmallows add a special touch to a variety of treats. While store-bought marshmallows are convenient, the magic of homemade marshmallows offers a unique experience that allows for creativity and personalization. One flavor that stands out, evoking joyous memories from childhood, is cotton candy. The mere mention of cotton candy can whisk us back to summer fairs and bustling carnivals, where the sweet, airy treats spun on sticks delightfully melted in our mouths.

Cotton Candy Marshmallows

Indulge in nostalgia with homemade fluffy cotton candy marshmallows! This guide walks you through creating these whimsical treats from scratch, ideal for parties, gifts, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Discover how to use simple ingredients like granulated sugar, gelatin, and cotton candy flavoring to craft the perfect marshmallows that melt in your mouth. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and colors to make each batch uniquely yours! #Marshmallows #HomemadeTreats #CottonCandy #BakingFun #SweetRecipes #DessertIdeas

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Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup light corn syrup

1/2 cup water

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin

1/2 cup cold water (for gelatin)

1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring (or to taste)

1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

1/4 cup cornstarch (for dusting)

Food coloring (optional, in pastel shades)

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it blooms and absorbs the water.

Make the Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, 1/2 cup of water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Once dissolved, increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature; you want it to reach 240°F (soft-ball stage).

Combine Gelatin and Syrup: Once the syrup reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin to the sugar syrup, and whisk until fully dissolved.

Flavor and Color: If you are using food coloring and flavoring, add them now. You can create fun pastel shades by using different colors of food coloring. Whisk until evenly blended.

Whip the Mixture: Pour the syrup into a stand mixer bowl. Begin mixing on low speed. Gradually increase to high speed and whip for about 10-15 minutes until the mixture becomes fluffy, thick, and holds stiff peaks. The mixture should look like thick whipped cream.

Prepare the Pan: While the marshmallow mixture is whipping, prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish. Lightly grease it with a non-stick spray or vegetable oil, and then dust it with a mixture of powdered sugar and cornstarch, making sure to cover the entire base and sides.

Spread the Marshmallow: Once whipped, pour the cotton candy marshmallow mixture into the prepared dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly. Dust the top lightly with more powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture to prevent sticking.

Set and Cut: Let the marshmallows sit at room temperature for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, until they are fully set. Once set, run a knife or a spatula around the edges of the pan, then place a cutting board on top and flip the pan to release the marshmallows.

Dust and Cut: Dust the top of the marshmallows with more powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture, then cut them into squares or desired shapes. Once cut, dust all sides of each marshmallow with the powdered sugar-cornstarch mix to prevent sticking together.

Store and Enjoy: Store the cotton candy marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy them alone, in hot chocolate, or as a fun addition to desserts!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 6-12 hours | Servings: Approximately 24 pieces