Marshmallows

Althaea officinalis (original plant, but modern marshmallows are artificial) Confectionery

Marshmallows Confectionery

At a Glance

  • Category Confectionery

The Forktionary Angle

"More than just a campfire treat; a versatile confection for endless sweet possibilities."

Definition

Confectionery made from sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, and air, producing a soft, spongy, and sweet treat.

Chemical Fact The aeration process incorporating tiny air bubbles is crucial for their signature light, spongy texture.
Storage Tip Store in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent them from drying out or becoming sticky.
Usage Tip To prevent sticking when cutting or handling, dust them with a mixture of powdered sugar and cornstarch.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Marshmallows are:

Sweet Vanilla Mildly Caramelized (when toasted)

Chef’s Secret

For perfectly toasted marshmallows (without burning), hold them a few inches *above* the flame, rather than directly in it. The radiant heat will caramelize them evenly.

Best Substitutes

Meringue

for topping, but different texture
Ratio 1:1

Homemade Marshmallow Fluff

for spreading
Ratio 1:1

Vegan Marshmallows

agar-agar based
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Check for expiration dates. Consider mini marshmallows for easy melting or large ones for roasting.

Recipes Using Marshmallows

Desserts Easy 3 Steps Or Less Time To Make

Marshmallow Treats

Nostalgic and ridiculously easy marshmallow treats! This classic recipe, inspired by e. Shern from Madison Middle School, delivers chewy, gooey perfection in just minutes. Perfect for a quick dessert, bake sale contribution, or satisfying that sweet tooth craving.

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Low Sodium Fudge Preparation Low Sodium

Aunt Betty's Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge

Indulge in Aunt Betty's legendary Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge! This recipe delivers a heavenly combination of rich, creamy chocolate and decadent peanut butter, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Prepare for an unforgettable fudge experience that's ridiculously easy to make.

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Fruit Dietary 30 Minutes Or Less Kid Friendly

Baby Ruth Bars No Bake

Craving the rich, nutty, and chocolatey goodness of a Baby Ruth bar? This no-bake recipe delivers a surprisingly delicious and easy-to-make treat that's almost as good as the original! Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without turning on the oven. Get ready to enjoy these addictive homemade Baby Ruth bars.

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30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Low In Something Course

Man Rice Krispies Treats

Satisfy even the biggest sweet tooth with these colossal, soft & chewy Rice Krispies Treats! Perfect for parties or simply because he deserves it, this recipe makes a HUGE batch that'll actually last more than a day. We've boosted the classic recipe to truly epic proportions, ensuring thick, delightful squares that stay irresistibly soft and chewy when stored in an airtight container. Get ready to experience Rice Krispies Treats like never before!

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Fruit Low Sodium Holiday Event Inexpensive

Kelly's Salad

A refreshing and vibrant salad perfect for kids and adults alike! This easy recipe combines sweet strawberries, tangy kiwi, fluffy marshmallows, and creamy cool whip for a delightful dessert or snack. My granddaughter loves it, and I know yours will too!

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Potluck Course Eggs Dairy Salads

Acini Di Pepe Ambrosia Salad

A nostalgic taste of childhood! This Acini di Pepe Ambrosia Salad recipe is a family favorite, bursting with sweet and tangy flavors. A delightful combination of creamy egg custard, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant tropical fruits like mandarin oranges and pineapple, topped with fluffy marshmallows and toasted coconut. Easy to make and perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dessert.

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Cookies And Brownies Dietary Cookies And Brownies Preparation

Betty Bars

Get ready for a flavor explosion! These Betty Bars are a crowd-pleasing classic, guaranteed to receive rave reviews. This easy recipe, originally from our local newspaper, features a delightful combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and butterscotch, all nestled in a crispy rice cereal base. A nostalgic treat perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or satisfying that sweet tooth!

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Course Time To Make Lunch Course

Tasty Dish's Heffalumps And Woozles

Indulge in this ridiculously delicious Heffalumps & Woozles recipe! A secret family recipe (patent pending!), this decadent treat is easily customizable. For an extra-chocolatey twist, try substituting Newman's Own Organics Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups – chopped, of course! This 5-minute wonder is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

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Valentines Day Finger Food To Go 3 Steps Or Less

Teddy Bear Trail Mix

This adorable and delicious Teddy Bear Trail Mix is the perfect after-school snack or classroom treat! Easy to make with just minutes of prep time, this fun mix is packed with kid-friendly ingredients that will have little ones roaring with delight. Get creative and customize it with your favorite goodies!

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Brownies Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Almond Joy Fudge Brownies

Indulge in the ultimate dessert fusion: decadent fudge brownies infused with the irresistible taste of Almond Joy! These easy-to-make brownies combine the richness of chocolate with the delightful crunch of almonds and the sweetness of coconut. A perfect treat for any occasion, guaranteed to impress your family and friends.

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Course Occasion Equipment Dinner Party

Aunt Hazel's Chocolate Marshmallow Dessert

This decadent, no-bake chocolate marshmallow dessert is a family heirloom, passed down for over 50 years! A nostalgic treat reminiscent of simpler times, this easy recipe is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any occasion where you want a crowd-pleasing dessert. Rich, creamy, and unbelievably delicious, it's sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience a taste of history!

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Low Fat Low Protein Low Sodium Kid Friendly

Banana Dreamboats

These Banana Dreamboats are a ridiculously easy and fun dessert recipe for kids and adults! Sweet bananas filled with gooey chocolate and marshmallows, then grilled to perfection. Get ready for a taste of tropical paradise!

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Easy Equipment 3 Steps Or Less Course

Best Mint Cocoa

Indulge in the most comforting and delicious mint cocoa you'll ever taste! This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings, warming your belly and soul with its rich, chocolatey flavor and refreshing mint notes. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this decadent hot cocoa is a must-try for chocolate and mint lovers.

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Fruit Easy Tropical Fruit Dietary

1980's Pistachio Fluff

Relive the retro vibes with this creamy, dreamy 1980s Pistachio Fluff! A simple, no-bake dessert that's perfect for potlucks, parties, or a nostalgic sweet treat. This easy recipe combines creamy pudding, sweet pineapple, and fluffy marshmallows for a delightful dessert that's ready in minutes!

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Beginner Cook Easy Desserts Inexpensive

Like Money For Nuthin Fudge

This ridiculously easy fudge recipe, passed down through generations, tastes like a million bucks but costs almost nothing! Get ready to whip up a batch of creamy, dreamy fudge in just 25 minutes. Perfect for holiday baking, potlucks, or a sweet anytime treat!

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Bar Cookies Dietary Bar Cookies Easy

4 Layer Bars

Indulge in these irresistible 4-Layer Bars! This easy recipe, found on a marshmallow bag, creates a gooey, warm, and utterly delicious treat. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are incredibly simple to make, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that's hard to resist. Get ready for a flavor explosion of chocolate, graham crackers, butterscotch, and marshmallow goodness!

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30 Minutes Or Less Occasion To Go Potluck

7 Up Party Salad

Get ready for a retro recipe revival! This creamy, dreamy 7 Up Party Salad is the perfect sweet and tangy side dish or dessert for your next potluck or gathering. A delightful combination of fluffy marshmallows, zesty 7 Up, and creamy cheese, topped with crunchy pineapple and nuts, this nostalgic classic is surprisingly easy to make. Prepare to impress your guests with this unique and unforgettable treat!

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Time To Make Main Ingredient Sweet Course

10 Minute Rocky Road

Indulge in this ridiculously easy and unbelievably delicious 10-Minute Rocky Road recipe! Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort. This fail-proof recipe is so moreish, you won't be able to stop at just one square. Get ready for a quick and rewarding dessert experience!

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