Ina Garten's 5-Star Homemade Marshmallows

Ina Garten's 5-Star Homemade Marshmallows is a medium American recipe that serves 40. 70 calories per serving. Recipe by Food Network on YouTube.

Prep: 40 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 1 hr 5 min

Cost: $27.08 total, $0.68 per serving

Ingredients

  • 3 packages Plain Gelatin (unflavored, each about 7 g)
  • 0.5 cup Cold Water (for blooming gelatin)
  • 1.5 cup Granulated Sugar (white, fine grain)
  • 1 cup Light Corn Syrup (for smooth texture)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Salt (enhances flavor)
  • 0.5 cup Water (for sugar syrup)
  • 1 tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract (high‑quality)
  • 2 cup Confectioners' Sugar (for dusting pan and finished marshmallows)

Instructions

  1. Bloom Gelatin

    Place 3 packages of plain gelatin into 0.5 cup cold water in a small bowl, stir gently, and let sit for 5 minutes until fully softened.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Measure Syrup Ingredients

    Measure 1.5 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup light corn syrup, 0.25 tsp salt, and 0.5 cup water.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Cook Sugar Syrup

    Combine the measured sugar, corn syrup, salt, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, then attach a candy thermometer and cook until the mixture reaches exactly 240°F.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 240°F

  4. Prepare Mixer

    Fit the stand mixer with the whisk attachment and add the softened gelatin mixture to the mixing bowl.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Combine Hot Syrup with Gelatin

    With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour the hot sugar syrup (use a heat‑proof glass beaker) into the gelatin while the mixer runs.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Whisk to Fluffy Consistency

    Increase the mixer to high speed and whisk for about 15 minutes, or until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and triples in volume.

    Time: PT15M

  7. Add Vanilla

    Reduce speed to low and add 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract, mixing just until incorporated.

    Time: PT1M

  8. Dust the Pan

    Generously coat the bottom of an 8 × 12 inch pan with confectioners' sugar, tapping out any excess.

    Time: PT5M

  9. Transfer Marshmallow Mixture

    Quickly pour the fluffy marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula.

    Time: PT2M

  10. Dust Top Layer

    Dust the surface of the marshmallow slab with another generous layer of confectioners' sugar.

    Time: PT2M

  11. Rest Overnight

    Leave the pan uncovered at room temperature overnight to allow the marshmallows to firm slightly.

    Time: PT0M

  12. Cut and Serve

    Using a sharp knife, cut the set marshmallow slab into 40 small squares (or 20 large squares). Dust each piece with additional confectioners' sugar if needed, and optionally insert lollipop sticks for novelty treats.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
70
Protein
0 g
Carbohydrates
18 g
Fat
0 g
Fiber
0 g

Dietary info: Contains gelatin, Gluten‑free, Dairy‑free

Allergens: Gelatin (animal source)

Last updated: April 17, 2026

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Ina Garten's 5-Star Homemade Marshmallows

Recipe by Food Network

Fluffy, cloud‑like vanilla marshmallows made from scratch with gelatin, corn syrup, and pure vanilla. They’re dusted in confectioners’ sugar, set overnight, and cut into perfect squares—ideal for gifting or a sweet treat.

MediumAmericanServes 40

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

Source Video
40m
Prep
10m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h
Total

Cost Breakdown

$27.08
Total cost
$0.68
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Bloom the gelatin completely in cold water.
  • Cook the sugar syrup to the precise temperature of 240°F.
  • Whisk the mixture for at least 15 minutes until it triples in volume and becomes glossy.
  • Generously dust both the pan and the finished marshmallows with confectioners' sugar to prevent sticking.

Safety Warnings

  • The sugar syrup reaches 240°F; handle with care to avoid burns.
  • Use a heat‑proof container when transferring hot syrup to the mixer.
  • Adult supervision is required if children are present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of homemade vanilla 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 when gelatin replaced the plant extract. Homemade marshmallows are celebrated as a nostalgic treat for holidays, camping trips, and as a gift because they can be customized with flavors and colors.

cultural
Q

What traditional regional variations of marshmallows exist within American cuisine?

A

In the U.S., classic vanilla marshmallows are most common, but regional twists include chocolate‑coated marshmallows in the Midwest, pumpkin‑spice marshmallows in New England during fall, and spicy chili‑lime marshmallows in the Southwest. Each variation reflects local flavor preferences while using the same basic gelatin‑sugar base.

cultural
Q

How are homemade marshmallows traditionally served in American celebrations?

A

They are often cut into bite‑size squares and served at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, and around campfires. They’re also used in s’mores, melted into hot chocolate, or dipped in chocolate for festive dessert platters.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations are homemade vanilla marshmallows associated with in American culture?

A

Homemade marshmallows are popular for Easter baskets, Christmas stocking stuffers, Fourth of July picnics, and as a sweet addition to Thanksgiving dessert tables. Their bright white appearance makes them a festive, neutral‑flavored treat for any holiday.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for classic vanilla marshmallows versus acceptable substitutes?

A

The authentic recipe uses plain gelatin, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, salt, and pure vanilla extract. Acceptable substitutes include agar‑agar for a vegetarian version, honey or golden syrup instead of corn syrup, and vanilla bean paste in place of extract.

cultural
Q

What other American desserts pair well with homemade vanilla marshmallows?

A

They pair beautifully with chocolate brownies, fruit pies, ice cream sundaes, and layered parfaits. Adding them to a chocolate fondue or using them as a topping for hot cocoa also creates a classic American comfort combo.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making homemade vanilla marshmallows?

A

Common errors include not blooming the gelatin fully, not reaching the exact 240°F syrup temperature, whisking for too short a time, and under‑dusting the pan which leads to sticking. Each of these issues can cause a dense or gummy texture.

technical
Q

Why does this homemade marshmallow recipe use gelatin instead of agar‑agar?

A

Gelatin provides the classic soft, melt‑in‑your‑mouth texture that Americans expect from marshmallows. Agar‑agar sets firmer and can give a slightly grainy mouthfeel, so gelatin is preferred for the traditional fluffy result.

technical
Q

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

A

Yes, you can make them a day ahead. After cutting, dust each piece with confectioners' sugar, place them in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them and thaw at room temperature before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Food Network specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Food Network showcases a wide range of cooking shows, recipe demonstrations, and culinary tips from professional chefs, focusing on approachable home cooking, classic American dishes, and seasonal specialties.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Food Network's approach to American dessert recipes differ from other cooking channels?

A

Food Network emphasizes high‑production values, step‑by‑step visual guidance, and often features celebrity chefs who share personal twists. Compared to smaller channels, Food Network provides more polished demonstrations and frequently ties recipes to holiday or event themes.

channel

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