Soft, fluffy, and sweet, homemade cotton candy marshmallows are a fun and unique treat that brings the nostalgic taste of the carnival straight to your kitchen. These marshmallows are a delightful combination of airy texture and the sugary goodness of cotton candy. Whether you’re looking for a fun snack, a homemade gift, or just want to indulge in a special treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
1/2 cup water
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
1/4 teaspoon pink food coloring
Powdered sugar, for dusting
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 1/4 cup water, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
Once the syrup is simmering, bring it to a boil. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and boil the syrup until it reaches 240°F (115°C), about 7-10 minutes.
While the syrup is boiling, heat the bloomed gelatin in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to dissolve it.
When the syrup reaches the correct temperature, slowly pour it into the bowl of a stand mixer with the dissolved gelatin. Start mixing on low speed, then increase to high speed and whip for 10-15 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract, cotton candy flavoring, and pink food coloring. Mix until fully combined.
Pour the marshmallow mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan and smooth the top. Let the marshmallows sit at room temperature for 6 hours or overnight to set.
Once set, dust the marshmallows with powdered sugar and cut into squares.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 16 servings
Variations
Different Flavors: You can easily switch up the cotton candy flavoring for other fun flavors like bubblegum, strawberry, or vanilla. It’s a great way to customize the marshmallows for different occasions.
Color Variations: Feel free to experiment with other food coloring to create multicolored marshmallows. For a rainbow effect, simply divide the marshmallow mixture and add different colors to each portion.
Mini Marshmallows: Instead of pouring the marshmallow mixture into a 9×9-inch pan, pour it into smaller molds for cute mini marshmallows.
Storage/Reheating
These marshmallows can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. To keep them fresh, make sure they’re dusted with powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together. If you want to enjoy them again after storing, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored gelatin?
I recommend using unflavored gelatin for the best texture and consistency in homemade marshmallows. Flavored gelatin may affect the final taste and texture.
What can I use if I don’t have cotton candy flavoring?
If you don’t have cotton candy flavoring, you can substitute it with other sweet flavors like vanilla or bubblegum. You could also try using a small amount of candy extract, such as strawberry or cherry, to get a similar sugary taste.
Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
Yes, a hand mixer works fine too, though you may need to mix for a little longer to achieve the thick, fluffy texture. Just be sure to mix at a high speed once the syrup is added.
How do I prevent the marshmallows from sticking to the pan?
Grease the baking pan generously before pouring in the marshmallow mixture. After the marshmallows set, dust the top with powdered sugar to prevent sticking when cutting them into squares.
Can I freeze homemade marshmallows?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing them, as the texture might change once thawed. It’s best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Conclusion
Making cotton candy marshmallows is a simple and fun process that brings a little magic to any occasion. The combination of soft, fluffy marshmallows and the sweet, nostalgic taste of cotton candy is a treat that both kids and adults will love. Plus, the bright pink color adds a cheerful touch, making them perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet snack. With this recipe, you can create your own delicious homemade marshmallows that are a step above the store-bought kind.
Recipe:
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Cotton Candy Marshmallows
These homemade cotton candy marshmallows are soft, fluffy, and bursting with nostalgia. Infused with cotton candy flavor and a touch of pink color, they’re a delightful treat perfect for celebrations, gifting, or simply enjoying as a fun, sweet snack. Easy to make and customizable, these marshmallows will bring joy to any occasion!
- Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients
1/2 cup water
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
1/4 teaspoon pink food coloring
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
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In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
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In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 1/4 cup water, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
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Once simmering, bring the syrup to a boil. Attach a candy thermometer and boil until the syrup reaches 240°F (115°C), about 7-10 minutes.
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While the syrup boils, microwave the bloomed gelatin for 10-15 seconds to dissolve it.
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Once the syrup reaches the correct temperature, slowly pour it into the bowl of a stand mixer with the dissolved gelatin. Mix on low speed, then increase to high speed, whipping for 10-15 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy.
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Add the vanilla extract, cotton candy flavoring, and pink food coloring. Mix until fully combined.
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Pour the marshmallow mixture into a greased 9×9-inch pan and smooth the top. Let it sit at room temperature for 6 hours or overnight to set.
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Dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares.
Notes
Use unflavored gelatin for the best texture and consistency.
If you don’t have cotton candy flavoring, substitute with vanilla, bubblegum, or another sweet extract.
You can make mini marshmallows by using smaller molds instead of a 9×9-inch pan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Candy, Dessert, Homemade Treats
- Method: Stovetop, Whipping, Setting
- Cuisine: American, Sweet Treats
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 servings
- Calories: 40 kcal
