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Cotton Candy Marshmallows

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Cotton Candy Marshmallows are a sweet, playful treat that combines the nostalgic flavor of cotton candy with the soft, fluffy texture of homemade marshmallows. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or a fun snack, these marshmallows are colorful, fun, and sure to bring joy to any event!

Ingredients

1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin (about 2 packets)

1/2 cup cold water, divided

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

1 cup light corn syrup

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring

Gel food coloring (pink or blue, or any color you like)

Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the gelatin: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the unflavored gelatin with 1/4 cup of cold water. Let it sit and bloom for about 5 minutes, until the gelatin softens.
  2. Cook the sugar mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 1/4 cup of cold water, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves. Once the mixture comes to a boil, stop stirring and allow it to cook until it reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.
  3. Combine the gelatin and sugar mixture: Once the sugar syrup reaches 240°F, carefully pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin while the mixer is running on low. Gradually increase the speed to high and continue mixing for 10-12 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, fluffy, and nearly tripled in volume.
  4. Add flavor and color: When the marshmallow mixture is thick and glossy, add the vanilla extract, cotton candy flavoring, and a few drops of food coloring. Mix until the flavor and color are fully incorporated.
  5. Transfer to pan: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Dust the bottom of the pan with powdered sugar to prevent the marshmallows from sticking. Pour the marshmallow mixture into the pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Smooth the top and tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
  6. Let the marshmallows set: Allow the marshmallows to set at room temperature for 4 hours, or overnight, until they firm up completely.
  7. Cut the marshmallows: Once the marshmallows have set, dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Turn the marshmallows out onto the surface and cut them into squares using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors. Dust all sides of the marshmallows with more powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
  8. Serve and enjoy: Serve the cotton candy marshmallows immediately, or store them in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Notes

Try different cotton candy flavors, such as blue raspberry or grape, to customize your marshmallows for different occasions.

For a fun twist, dip marshmallows in melted chocolate and sprinkle them with colorful sugar or sprinkles.

For a vegan version, use agar-agar instead of gelatin and substitute maple syrup or agave for corn syrup.

Nutrition