Homemade Marshmallow Creme (Frosting)

Homemade Marshmallow Creme (Frosting) is a medium American recipe that serves 8. 90 calories per serving. Recipe by Sally's Baking Recipes on YouTube.

Prep: 5 min | Cook: 12 min | Total: 27 min

Cost: $0.95 total, $0.12 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 large Egg Whites (room temperature)
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 0.25 teaspoon Cream of Tartar
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla preferred)

Instructions

  1. Gather Ingredients and Equipment

    Measure out 2 large egg whites, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Set out the saucepan, whisk, thermometer, mixing bowl, and mixer.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Combine Egg Whites, Sugar, and Cream of Tartar

    Place the egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture looks glossy.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Heat to Soft‑Ball Stage

    Continue heating while stirring. Using an instant‑read thermometer, bring the mixture to 160°F (71°C). This is the soft‑ball stage where the sugar is fully dissolved.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 160°F

  4. Cool Slightly

    Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture sit for 1–2 minutes until the steam subsides.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Add Vanilla

    Transfer the warm mixture to the clean mixing bowl and stir in the vanilla extract.

    Time: PT1M

  6. Beat to Stiff Peaks

    Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer on high speed, beat the mixture for about 5 minutes until it becomes glossy, thick, and forms stiff peaks.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Store or Use Immediately

    Transfer the marshmallow cream to an airtight container. Use right away as frosting, dip, or toast with a kitchen torch, or store according to the storage guidelines.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
90
Protein
1 g
Carbohydrates
22 g
Fat
0 g
Fiber
0 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Allergens: Eggs

Last updated: April 21, 2026

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Homemade Marshmallow Creme (Frosting)

Recipe by Sally's Baking Recipes

A silky, fluffy marshmallow cream made with just four ingredients—egg whites, granulated sugar, cream of tartar, and vanilla. Perfect for s'mores treats, as a frosting for Baked Alaska, or toasted with a kitchen torch.

MediumAmericanServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
21m
Prep
2m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
33m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$0.95
Total cost
$0.12
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Heat to Soft‑Ball Stage (step 3) – reaching 160°F ensures proper texture.
  • Beat to Stiff Peaks (step 6) – achieving stiff peaks gives the characteristic fluffy marshmallow cream.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot sugar can cause severe burns – handle the saucepan with oven mitts.
  • Use the thermometer carefully to avoid burns.
  • Do not over‑cook the egg whites; they can curdle and become grainy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of homemade marshmallow cream in American dessert cuisine?

A

Marshmallow cream, often called marshmallow fluff, originated in the United States in the early 20th century as a convenient, shelf‑stable alternative to traditional marshmallows. It became popular in classic American treats like s'mores, fluffernutter sandwiches, and as a frosting for Baked Alaska.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of marshmallow cream in American cuisine?

A

While the basic recipe is consistent nationwide, some regions add a pinch of salt or use corn syrup instead of granulated sugar for a smoother texture. In the Northeast, marshmallow fluff is famously paired with peanut butter in the "fluffernutter" sandwich.

cultural
Q

How is homemade marshmallow cream traditionally served in the United States?

A

It is most commonly spread on sandwiches, used as a topping for s'mores, folded into frosting for cakes, or lightly toasted with a kitchen torch over desserts like Baked Alaska for a caramelized finish.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is homemade marshmallow cream traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Marshmallow cream is a staple at summer camp cookouts for s'mores, at holiday gatherings for Baked Alaska, and at casual brunches where fluffernutter sandwiches are served.

cultural
Q

What other American desserts pair well with homemade marshmallow cream?

A

It pairs beautifully with chocolate brownies, banana splits, layered cakes, and fruit tarts. It also works as a light frosting for angel food cake or as a dip for fresh strawberries.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for homemade marshmallow cream versus acceptable substitutes?

A

The classic recipe uses egg whites, granulated sugar, cream of tartar, and vanilla extract. Acceptable substitutes include aquafaba for egg whites (vegan), lemon juice or white vinegar for cream of tartar, and maple or almond extract for vanilla.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making homemade marshmallow cream?

A

Common errors include not heating the mixture to the proper 160°F temperature, using a bowl with any grease or moisture, and stopping the beat before stiff peaks form. Each of these can result in a grainy or runny texture.

technical
Q

Why does this homemade marshmallow cream recipe use an instant‑read thermometer instead of a candy thermometer?

A

An instant‑read thermometer provides a quick, accurate reading of the soft‑ball stage (160°F) without the need for a long‑stem candy thermometer, making it easier for home cooks to verify the correct temperature.

technical
Q

Can I make homemade marshmallow cream ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can make it up to two weeks ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze it for up to two months and re‑whisk after thawing.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Sally's Baking Recipes specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Sally's Baking Recipes focuses on approachable, home‑baked treats, ranging from cookies and cakes to specialty frostings and creative dessert toppings, often featuring step‑by‑step tutorials and helpful baking tips.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Sally's Baking Recipes' approach to American dessert baking differ from other baking channels?

A

Sally's Baking Recipes emphasizes simplicity with minimal ingredients, clear visual cues, and practical kitchen hacks, making classic American desserts accessible to beginners while still offering variations for more experienced bakers.

channel

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