Experience the delightful fusion of fluffy marshmallows and the nostalgic taste of cotton candy with this homemade recipe. Perfect for parties, gifts, or a sweet indulgence, these marshmallows are both fun to make and delicious to eat.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 3 envelopes (7 grams each) unflavored gelatin
• 1 cup cold water, divided
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
• Pink and blue food coloring (optional)
• ½ cup powdered sugar, for dusting
• ½ cup cornstarch, for dusting

Directions

1. Prepare the Gelatin: In the bowl of a stand mixer, sprinkle the gelatin over ½ cup of cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
   
2. Make the Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, remaining ½ cup of water, and salt. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C).
   
3. Combine and Whip: With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the bloomed gelatin. Once combined, increase the mixer speed to high and whip for 10–12 minutes, or until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy. Add the cotton candy flavoring and mix until incorporated.
   
4. Add Color (Optional): If desired, divide the marshmallow mixture into two bowls. Add pink food coloring to one bowl and blue to the other, folding gently to combine.
   
5. Prepare the Pan: Combine powdered sugar and cornstarch in a small bowl. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and dust with some of the powdered sugar mixture, ensuring all sides are coated.
   
6. Pour and Set: Pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan, swirling the colors together if using both. Smooth the top with a spatula and dust with additional powdered sugar mixture. Let the marshmallows set at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight.
   
7. Cut and Coat: Once set, turn the marshmallow slab onto a cutting surface. Using a sharp knife or cookie cutters, cut into desired shapes. Toss the cut marshmallows in the remaining powdered sugar mixture to prevent sticking.
   

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 100
• Total Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 0mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g

Why You Should Make Cotton Candy Marshmallows at Home

One of the biggest advantages of making marshmallows at home is that you can customize them to your taste and preferences. Store-bought marshmallows often contain artificial additives and preservatives, while homemade versions allow you to use high-quality ingredients. You can adjust the level of sweetness, experiment with different colors, and even shape them into fun designs. Another reason to make these at home is that they are perfect for gifting. Wrapped in decorative bags or placed in festive boxes, cotton candy marshmallows make great party favors, holiday treats, or birthday gifts. They are also a wonderful addition to dessert tables, where their pastel hues and fluffy texture make them stand out among other sweets.

The Science Behind Marshmallow Texture

The secret to achieving the perfect marshmallow texture lies in the combination of sugar syrup and gelatin. Gelatin acts as the stabilizer that gives marshmallows their structure, while the sugar syrup provides the right consistency. When whipped together, they trap tiny air bubbles, creating the light and fluffy texture we associate with marshmallows. Temperature control is crucial when making marshmallows. The sugar syrup must be heated to the correct temperature (typically around 240°F or 115°C) to ensure the right consistency. Undercooking the syrup will result in marshmallows that are too soft and sticky, while overheating can make them too firm. Once the syrup is mixed with gelatin and whipped at high speed, it transforms into a thick, glossy mixture that sets into the perfect marshmallow texture.

What Makes Cotton Candy Flavor So Unique?

Cotton candy has a distinctive taste that immediately brings back childhood memories of carnivals and fairs. The flavor is typically a combination of vanilla, raspberry, and sometimes hints of bubblegum. When added to marshmallows, it creates a sweet and slightly fruity taste that enhances their appeal. To achieve the cotton candy flavor in this recipe, a concentrated cotton candy extract is used. These extracts are specifically designed to mimic the taste of spun sugar and can be found in specialty baking stores or online. If you want to experiment with flavors, you can mix in other extracts such as vanilla or a hint of strawberry for a unique twist.

Ways to Use Cotton Candy Marshmallows

Cotton candy marshmallows are not only delicious on their own, but they can also be used in a variety of creative ways. One of the most popular ways to enjoy them is by adding them to a cup of hot chocolate. As they melt, they infuse the drink with a sweet and fluffy texture, making it even more indulgent. They can also be used in s’mores, replacing traditional marshmallows for a more colorful and flavorful experience. Imagine roasting a pink and blue cotton candy marshmallow over a fire and sandwiching it between graham crackers and chocolate for an exciting twist on the classic treat. For those who enjoy baking, these marshmallows can be incorporated into recipes like brownies, cookies, and rice cereal treats. They add a fun element to desserts and can be used as decorative toppings for cakes and cupcakes. Another creative way to use them is in milkshakes—blending them with ice cream and milk creates a rich and creamy cotton candy-flavored shake that is both visually stunning and delicious.

Tips for Making the Perfect Marshmallows

One of the most important factors when making marshmallows is ensuring that your sugar syrup reaches the right temperature. Using a candy thermometer is highly recommended to achieve precision. Additionally, having a stand mixer is essential, as whipping the mixture to the right consistency requires both speed and endurance. Dusting the marshmallows with a mixture of powdered sugar and cornstarch prevents them from sticking together. This step ensures that each piece remains light, fluffy, and easy to handle. If you’re feeling creative, you can swirl different food colors into the mixture before setting them, creating a beautiful marbled effect. Proper storage is also key to maintaining their freshness. Store marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will last for about two weeks. Avoid refrigerating them, as this can cause them to become overly sticky due to moisture absorption.

Conclusion

Cotton candy marshmallows are a delightful and whimsical treat that brings together the best of two beloved sweets. Their soft, airy texture combined with the nostalgic flavor of cotton candy makes them a unique and enjoyable dessert for all occasions. Whether you’re making them for a special event, as a homemade gift, or simply as a fun kitchen experiment, these marshmallows are guaranteed to be a hit.