Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Making your own marshmallows is an incredibly rewarding experience. These marshmallow hearts are so soft and fluffy, with a touch of sweetness and vanilla. They’re fun to make, and the heart shape makes them perfect for gifting or serving at a special occasion. Plus, once you try homemade marshmallows, it’s hard to go back to store-bought ones!
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Powdered sugar
- Water
- Gelatin (unflavored)
- Granulated sugar
- Corn syrup (light)
- Kosher salt
- Vanilla extract
- Red gel food coloring (optional)
Directions
- Lightly grease a pan and dust it with powdered sugar.
- In a stand mixer, bloom the gelatin by sprinkling it over water and letting it sit for 10 minutes.
- In a pan, combine the remaining water, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Heat until it reaches 240°F, brushing off any sugar crystals from the sides of the pan.
- Pour the hot syrup into the gelatin mixture while mixing, then add vanilla extract and food coloring (if desired).
- Beat for 8 minutes, until the mixture becomes thick and opaque.
- Spread the mixture into the prepared pan, press it into the corners, and let it firm up for at least an hour.
- Cut into heart shapes using a wet cutter, then toss in powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 30-40 marshmallows
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Set Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
- Flavored Marshmallows: Add strawberry, raspberry, or peppermint extract for a different taste.
- Chocolate Dipped: Insert sticks into the marshmallows and dip them in melted chocolate for a fun twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the marshmallow hearts in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: You can freeze these marshmallows for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: No reheating is necessary, but they can be toasted over a fire for s’mores.
FAQs
Can I use a different shape for the marshmallows?
Yes, feel free to use any cookie cutter shape you like, though hearts are perfect for gifting.
What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
If you don’t have a thermometer, cook the syrup until it reaches a soft-ball stage (240°F) by testing it in a glass of cold water.
Can I use store-bought marshmallows for this recipe?
No, the texture and process are unique to homemade marshmallows, which have a fluffy, soft consistency you can’t get from store-bought versions.
How do I make the marshmallow mixture thicker?
Beat the marshmallow mixture for a longer time to get a firmer texture.
Can I use different food coloring?
Yes, you can use any color to match the occasion or your theme.
How long do homemade marshmallows last?
They typically last up to 1 week when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I make these without a stand mixer?
Yes, you can use a hand mixer, but it might take longer to get the right consistency.
How do I store the marshmallow hearts?
Store them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in cellophane bags.
Can I use flavored extracts?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla with other flavors like peppermint, raspberry, or strawberry.
What can I do with leftover scraps?
Leftover marshmallow scraps can be used for s’mores, melted into fondue, or eaten as a treat.
Conclusion
These Marshmallow Hearts are a delightful, fluffy treat that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day, special occasions, or just as a sweet homemade snack. They’re easy to make, customizable, and will impress anyone who tries them. Make them today and enjoy the soft, delicious marshmallow goodness!
Marshmallow Hearts
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 30-40 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These homemade Marshmallow Hearts are fluffy, sweet, and perfect for gifting or special occasions like Valentine’s Day. With a light vanilla flavor and soft, puffy texture, they’re a fun and rewarding treat to make and enjoy. Once you try these homemade marshmallows, you’ll never go back to store-bought again!
Ingredients
- Powdered sugar
- Water
- Gelatin (unflavored)
- Granulated sugar
- Corn syrup (light)
- Kosher salt
- Vanilla extract
- Red gel food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Lightly grease a pan and dust it with powdered sugar.
- In a stand mixer, bloom the gelatin by sprinkling it over water and letting it sit for 10 minutes.
- In a pan, combine the remaining water, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Heat until it reaches 240°F, brushing off any sugar crystals from the sides of the pan.
- Pour the hot syrup into the gelatin mixture while mixing, then add vanilla extract and food coloring (if desired).
- Beat for 8 minutes, until the mixture becomes thick and opaque.
- Spread the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing it into the corners. Let it firm up for at least an hour.
- Cut into heart shapes using a wet cutter, then toss in powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Notes
- Flavored Marshmallows: Add extracts like strawberry, raspberry, or peppermint for a unique twist.
- Chocolate Dipped: Insert sticks into the marshmallows and dip in melted chocolate for a fun variation.
- Food Coloring: Customize the color of the marshmallows for different occasions by using your favorite food coloring.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
