EASY Marshmallows From Scratch

EASY Marshmallows From Scratch is a medium American recipe that serves 12. 174 calories per serving. Recipe by Joshua Weissman on YouTube.

Prep: 12 min | Cook: 26 min | Total: 53 min

Cost: $4.00 total, $0.33 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Water (cold, for blooming gelatin)
  • 3 packets Gelatin Sheets (unflavored, about 85 g total; bloom in water)
  • 2 cups Granulated Sugar (white granulated)
  • 3/4 cup Light Corn Syrup (prevents crystallization)
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Almond Extract (optional, adds depth)
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar (for dusting, sifted)
  • 1 tablespoon Neutral Oil (to oil parchment and knife)

Instructions

  1. Bloom Gelatin

    Place 1/2 cup cold water in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle the 3 packets of gelatin sheets over the surface. Let sit for 5 minutes until fully softened.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Prepare Pan

    Lay a sheet of parchment paper in a 9×13‑inch baking pan and lightly brush the parchment with neutral oil to prevent sticking.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Make Sugar Syrup

    In a medium saucepan combine 2 cups granulated sugar, 3/4 cup corn syrup, and 1/2 cup water. Stir over medium‑high heat until sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and bring to a boil.

    Time: PT7M

  4. Reach Soft‑Ball Stage

    Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and continue boiling the syrup until it reaches 240 °F (soft‑ball stage).

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: 240°F

  5. Dissolve Gelatin

    While the syrup is heating, whisk the bloomed gelatin until it becomes a clear, liquid mixture.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Combine Syrup and Gelatin

    Turn the mixer on high speed. With the bowl running, slowly pour the hot syrup down the side of the mixing bowl, allowing it to stream in while the mixer aerates the mixture.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Add Flavorings & Whisk

    Add 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract. Continue mixing on high for about 10‑12 minutes, until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and triples in volume.

    Time: PT12M

  8. Transfer to Pan

    Scrape the fluffy marshmallow batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Set Overnight

    Allow the marshmallows to sit at room temperature, uncovered, for at least 8 hours or overnight until firm.

    Time: PT0M

  10. Dust, Cut & Serve

    Generously dust the top with powdered sugar. Oil a sharp knife, cut the marshmallows into squares, and dust each piece again with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
174
Protein
1.8 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
0 g
Fiber
0 g

Dietary info: Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, Not Vegetarian

Allergens: Gelatin (animal‑derived), Almond extract (tree nut)

Last updated: April 17, 2026

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EASY Marshmallows From Scratch

Recipe by Joshua Weissman

Fluffy, melt‑in‑your‑mouth marshmallows made from scratch using gelatin, sugar, corn syrup, and a hint of vanilla and almond. Perfect for gifting, hot cocoa, or snacking.

MediumAmericanServes 12

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

Source Video
34m
Prep
9m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
53m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.00
Total cost
$0.33
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Bloom gelatin
  • Boil syrup to 240°F (soft‑ball stage)
  • Whisk hot syrup into gelatin while mixing at high speed
  • Allow marshmallows to set at room temperature overnight
  • Dust and cut with an oiled knife

Safety Warnings

  • The sugar syrup reaches >240 °F; handle with care to avoid burns.
  • Use a heat‑proof glove when handling the hot saucepan.
  • Keep the knife blade oiled to prevent slipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of homemade marshmallows in American confectionery?

A

Marshmallows originated from the ancient Egyptian use of the mallow plant’s sap, but the modern fluffy version became popular in the United States in the early 20th century after gelatin replaced the original plant extract. They are now a classic treat for holidays, s'mores, and hot cocoa.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of marshmallows in American cuisine?

A

In the U.S., variations include chocolate‑coated marshmallows, peppermint‑flavored holiday marshmallows, and the iconic toasted marshmallows used in s'mores. Some regions add cornmeal for a slightly gritty texture, while others keep the classic vanilla‑almond flavor.

cultural
Q

How is homemade marshmallow traditionally served in the United States?

A

They are typically dusted with powdered sugar and cut into bite‑size squares. In the U.S., they are served in hot chocolate, used in s'mores, or enjoyed straight from the pan as a sweet snack.

cultural
Q

During which celebrations are homemade marshmallows commonly made in American culture?

A

Marshmallows are popular around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Fourth of July gatherings, often appearing in desserts, hot drinks, and as a fun DIY treat for kids.

cultural
Q

What makes Joshua Weissman's homemade marshmallow recipe special compared to other marshmallow recipes?

A

Weissman's recipe emphasizes precise temperature control (240 °F soft‑ball stage) and a high‑speed whisk to incorporate maximum air, resulting in an exceptionally light and fluffy texture. He also adds a hint of almond extract for depth.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making homemade marshmallows using Joshua Weissman's method?

A

Common errors include not reaching the correct syrup temperature, under‑whisking the mixture, and cutting the marshmallows before they are fully set. Each of these can cause grainy texture or sticky squares.

technical
Q

Why does this marshmallow recipe use gelatin sheets instead of powdered gelatin?

A

Gelatin sheets dissolve more uniformly and give a clearer, smoother set, which helps achieve the airy texture Joshua Weissman demonstrates. Powdered gelatin can sometimes leave small granules if not fully dissolved.

technical
Q

Can I make these marshmallows ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes, you can make them up to a week ahead. Store the cut marshmallows in an airtight container dusted with powdered sugar at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness. For longer storage, freeze them between parchment sheets.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the marshmallow mixture is finished?

A

The mixture should be glossy, thick, and about three times its original volume. When lifted with the whisk, it should fall in slow, ribbon‑like folds rather than dripping.

technical
Q

How do I know when the marshmallow is done cooking?

A

The key indicator is the syrup reaching 240 °F on a candy thermometer. Once the syrup hits this temperature and you whisk it in, the mixture will quickly become fluffy and hold its shape when lifted.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Joshua Weissman specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Joshua Weissman specializes in detailed, technique‑focused cooking tutorials that blend classic culinary fundamentals with modern home‑cook accessibility, often recreating restaurant‑style dishes from scratch.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Joshua Weissman's approach to American dessert cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Joshua Weissman emphasizes precise temperature control, ingredient quality, and step‑by‑step explanations, encouraging viewers to master fundamentals rather than rely on shortcuts. This contrasts with many channels that favor quick, shortcut‑heavy methods.

channel

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