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Homemade Cotton Candy Marshmallows: Sweet, Fluffy Magic in Every Bite

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  • Author: Lily Carter
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 26-30 marshmallows (increased from normal 24) 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Cotton Candy Marshmallows are a fun and fluffy treat that brings the nostalgic taste of cotton candy into soft, pillowy marshmallows. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a dreamy pastel color, they’re perfect for parties, gifts, or just a sweet indulgence at home.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 3 tbsp unflavored gelatin
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup water (for syrup)
  • 1 tsp cotton candy flavoring
  • Few drops of pink or blue food coloring (optional)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin

  1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, add 1/2 cup cold water. Sprinkle the gelatin over the water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup
2. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and 1/2 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until dissolved.
3. Once dissolved, stop stirring and bring to a boil. Cook until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.

Step 3: Combine Syrup and Gelatin
4. Carefully pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin while mixing on low speed.
5. Gradually increase speed to high and beat for 10 minutes, until thick and glossy.

Step 4: Add Flavor & Color
6. Add the cotton candy flavoring and food coloring. Beat for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Pour and Set
7. Grease a 9×9-inch pan (or line with parchment paper) and pour the marshmallow mixture in.
8. Smooth the top and let set at room temperature for 4 hours (or overnight).

Step 6: Cut & Dust
9. Dust a surface with powdered sugar, turn out the marshmallow slab, and cut into squares.
10. Toss each marshmallow in powdered sugar to prevent sticking.


Notes

  • Use a Candy Thermometer to ensure accuracy.
  • Allow full setting time before cutting.
  • For storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 marshmallow
  • Calories: ~50 kcal
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 5mg
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg