How are Marshmallows Made?

Marshmallows are a classic sweet treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from roasting them over a campfire to adding them to hot cocoa.

But did you know that making your own marshmallows at home is a lot easier than you might think?

Let’s take a closer look at the process of making marshmallows, from the ingredients to the techniques used to create that perfect texture. We’ve also thought up some different ways marshmallows can be used in desserts and baking.

It’s time to grab that mixer and get ready to learn how marshmallows are made.

How to make marshmallows

With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create delicious homemade marshmallows that are sure to impress.

Here’s our step-by-step recipe and instructions to get you started.

You will need

• 3 large egg whites
• 10-12 gelatine leaves
• 700g white caster sugar
• 1.5 tbsp liquid glucose
• 4 tbsp cornflour
• 100g icing sugar
• Sunflower oil for greasing
• Flavourings of choice

Instructions

1. Start by whisking the egg whites until soft peaks form. Set aside.
2. Submerge the gelatine leaves in 200ml cold water until softened.
3. Into a large saucepan, pour in the caster sugar, liquid glucose and 300ml water. Cook over high heat, not stirring too much, until the temperature hits 130C.
4. Add the softened gelatine and water to the saucepan. Stir until the gelatin dissolves, then pour the mixture into a heatproof jug.
5. Get to whisking your egg whites again until stiff peaks form. Continue to whisk while pouring a steady stream of the syrup from the jug until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
6. Add any flavourings you like, then continue to whisk for another 10 minutes until the mixture is noticeably thicker.
7. While you’re waiting for the mixture to thicken, mix the icing sugar and cornflour together.
8. Prepare a square baking tin with cling film and some vegetable oil. Dust some of the icing cornflour onto the tin before pouring in the marshmallow mixture. Set for two hours.
9. Prepare your workspace with more of the icing cornflour and tip out the set marshmallow. Dust with the remaining icing cornflour mix. Cut into squares of your desired size, making sure all sides of the marshmallow are coated in the icing cornflour mix to prevent sticking.
10. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to three days.

Different flavourings

Whatever kind of flavour you’d like your marshmallows to be, depends on the end result you’re after. Rosewater is a classic, yet sophisticated flavour while orange blossom and peppermint are fun and tangy options.

Once finished, you could top your marshmallows with melted chocolate for a truly decadent treat. Try mixing in nuts during the whisking for a crunchy texture and delicious flavour.

Whether you're looking for a new baking project or just want to impress your friends and family, making marshmallows is a rewarding experience that is sure to bring a smile to your face.

How to use marshmallows

Marshmallows are a wonderfully versatile dessert that can be used for baking, as decorations, or simply enjoyed at a picnic or around the campfire with friends.

Of course, the most obvious answer here is to enjoy them on their own - but how can they be used in baking and dessert making? Let’s take a look at the different ways marshmallows can be incorporated into your sweet treats.

Rice Krispie treats

These childhood classics are beloved by all. Marshmallow acts as an excellent glue for keeping the bars together, as well as being a sweet and delicious contrast to the cereal grains. These bars are simple to make and sure to go down well with all of the family.

S’mores

These delicious desserts are a mainstay of any camping experience, fun to eat and easy to make. What’s not to love?

To make them, you sandwich marshmallows and chocolate chips between two crackers. The next step is to roast them over an open fire to toast the marshmallow and melt the chocolate - but a couple of minutes in the oven also works well!

Rocky Road

Rocky road is a type of candy that typically includes chocolate, nuts (usually almonds or walnuts), and marshmallows. The marshmallows are often cut into small pieces and mixed with the chocolate and nuts to create a sweet, chewy texture.

Marshmallows are a real staple of this delectable dessert, though you can change up the nuts for dried fruit or whatever you fancy adding in. The choice is up to you!

Marshmallow popcorn

If you want to take the family film night to the next level, then marshmallow popcorn is a must.

Melting marshmallows into your popped popcorn adds a sweet contrast to the saltiness of the dish that is sure to delight adults and kids alike. It’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Marshmallow cookies

Mini marshmallows are an excellent addition to any cookie. The marshmallows will melt in the centre for a gooey cookie, but toast on the outside for a caramelised finish that isn’t to be missed.

Have them on their own in the cookie dough or pair them with chocolate chips and chopped dried fruit for a simple, yet fabulous dessert.

Marshmallow ice cream

Ready to take your ice cream game to the next level? Then you need this sweet and creamy dessert in your life.

One way to make marshmallow ice cream is by incorporating marshmallow fluff into the ice cream base. If you want to keep things simple, just top your chosen ice cream with marshmallows for a fluffy, gooey addition to your dessert.

Final thoughts

There are countless ways to enjoy marshmallows, whether you want to go to the effort of making them for loved ones or are simply just a marshmallow fan. These sweet treats are portable enough to take out and about, and are a firm favourite for all ages.

Our mouth-watering wholesale marshmallows are a delightful addition to any dessert, or great for enjoying on their own.