Cotton Candy Marshmallows

Looking for a fun and unique way to satisfy your sweet tooth? Cotton candy marshmallows are the answer! Combining the fluffy texture of marshmallows with the nostalgic, sugary flavor of cotton candy, these homemade treats are perfect for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night, or just craving something sweet, these marshmallows will make any occasion special.

What Makes Cotton Candy Marshmallows Special?

Marshmallows are loved for their soft, airy texture and subtle sweetness. But when infused with the light, sugary flavor of cotton candy, these marshmallows reach a whole new level of deliciousness. With their nostalgic, vibrant taste, they’re sure to become your new favorite treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fun and Flavorful: These marshmallows are a hit at parties, birthdays, or anytime you want to add a fun twist to your dessert table.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need any special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Most of the items are pantry staples.
Customizable: With different cotton candy flavoring and food colors, you can create visually stunning marshmallows that are as fun to look at as they are to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Unflavored Gelatin: This is the base for that fluffy marshmallow texture.
Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and a little texture.
Corn Syrup: Adds smooth consistency and helps maintain shape.
Water: Helps dissolve gelatin and sugar.
Cotton Candy Flavoring: Available at most specialty baking stores or online. Choose your favorite flavor or color.
Powdered Sugar and Cornstarch: For dusting and preventing marshmallows from sticking together.

How to Make Cotton Candy Marshmallows

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

In a large bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water. Let it bloom for 5 minutes so the gelatin absorbs the water.

Step 2: Cook the Sugar Syrup

In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer. This step ensures the marshmallows will have the right texture.

Step 3: Combine Gelatin and Sugar Syrup

Once the sugar syrup reaches the correct temperature, pour it into the bloomed gelatin while stirring constantly. Use a stand or hand mixer to beat the mixture on medium speed for about 10–15 minutes until it becomes thick and glossy.

Step 4: Add Cotton Candy Flavor

Once the marshmallow mixture reaches the perfect consistency, add the cotton candy flavoring and food coloring. Stir until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Set the Marshmallows

Pour the marshmallow mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Let the marshmallows set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

Step 6: Cut and Dust

Once set, dust the marshmallows with a mixture of powdered sugar and cornstarch to prevent sticking. Cut them into squares or fun shapes using kitchen scissors or a knife.

Tips for Perfect Cotton Candy Marshmallows

Bloom the Gelatin: Let the gelatin bloom for at least 5 minutes before heating it to ensure a smooth consistency.
Use a Candy Thermometer: A thermometer ensures the sugar syrup reaches the ideal temperature of 240°F for the perfect texture.
Customize the Colors: Add a few drops of food coloring to create a rainbow of marshmallow colors!
Storing: Keep marshmallows in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

Perfect Pairing: Serve your cotton candy marshmallows with nostalgic treats like popcorn, chocolate, or even in hot cocoa for a fun twist.
Make a Fun Display: Arrange marshmallows in decorative jars or skewer them onto sticks for a carnival-inspired treat.
Snack On-the-Go: Place marshmallows in individual bags or small containers for easy party snacks.
Use as Toppings: Add marshmallows to cupcakes, ice cream sundaes, or milkshakes for an extra-special touch.

Storage Tips:

Airtight Container: Store marshmallows in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.
Avoid Humidity: Keep them in a cool, dry place away from moisture to maintain their fluffy texture.
Freezing Option: You can freeze marshmallows for extended storage. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour, then transfer to an airtight container or resealable bag. Let them thaw for a few minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cotton candy marshmallows without a candy thermometer? Yes! If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the sugar syrup by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready. However, using a thermometer ensures more precise results.
Can I use cotton candy syrup instead of flavoring? Yes, you can substitute cotton candy syrup for flavoring. Just be sure to adjust the sugar and water ratios since syrup may alter the consistency.
How can I make these marshmallows more colorful? Add food coloring when mixing in the cotton candy flavoring. Feel free to mix colors for a vibrant, multi-colored batch.
Can I make these marshmallows without corn syrup? While corn syrup is important for a smooth texture, you can substitute it with honey or golden syrup. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

Cotton candy marshmallows are an easy, fun, and creative way to bring the carnival-inspired taste of cotton candy to your home. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply for a sweet indulgence, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Try making a batch today and let the nostalgic flavors take you back to the fun of the fair!

Cotton Candy Marshmallows Recipe

Ingredients:

3/4 cup (180 ml) cold water, divided
3 envelopes (7 g each) unflavored gelatin
2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (120 ml) light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring (available online or in baking stores)
Gel food coloring (pink, blue, or any color of your choice)
1/2 cup (65 g) powdered sugar
1/4 cup (30 g) cornstarch

Instructions:

Prepare the pan: Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.
Bloom the gelatin: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 1/2 cup of cold water and the gelatin. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to bloom.
Cook the sugar syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and the remaining 1/4 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Cook until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.
Whip the marshmallow mixture: Turn the mixer on low speed and carefully pour the hot sugar syrup into the bloomed gelatin. Gradually increase the speed to high and beat for 10–12 minutes, or until the mixture is thick, fluffy, and slightly cooled.
Add flavoring and coloring: Add the cotton candy flavoring and a few drops of food coloring. Mix until evenly combined.
Transfer to the pan: Pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a greased spatula. Let the marshmallows sit at room temperature for 6–8 hours, or overnight, to set.
Cut and coat: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar and cornstarch. Dust a work surface with the mixture. Turn the marshmallow slab out onto the surface, peel off the parchment paper, and dust the top with the powdered sugar mixture. Use a greased knife or cookie cutters to cut the marshmallows into squares or shapes. Toss the cut marshmallows in the powdered sugar mixture to coat.
Serve and enjoy: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.