Name: Homemade Cotton Candy Marshmallows – A Sweet and Fluffy Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 6 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 ½ tablespoons unflavored gelatin; ½ cup cold water (for blooming gelatin); ½ cup water (for sugar syrup); ½ teaspoon cotton candy flavoring; ½ cup powdered sugar; ¼ cup cornstarch; A few drops of food coloring (optional)

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If you love the light, airy sweetness of cotton candy and the pillowy softness of marshmallows, this recipe is for you! Homemade Cotton Candy Marshmallows are fun, colorful, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. They make a perfect treat for birthdays, holidays, or just because you want something whimsical and sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and fluffy – These marshmallows are light as a cloud.
Cotton candy flavor – A nostalgic, sweet treat in every bite.
Perfect for gifts – Wrap them up for a fun homemade present.
No corn syrup needed – A homemade spin without artificial additives.

Ingredients

(Full list of ingredients below!)

Granulated sugar
Gelatin
Water
Cotton candy flavoring
Powdered sugar
Cornstarch
Food coloring (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin

In a mixing bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes. This helps the marshmallows get their signature fluffy texture.

Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup

In a saucepan, combine sugar and water, then bring to a boil. Heat until it reaches 240°F (soft ball stage), then carefully pour it into the gelatin mixture while mixing on low speed.

Step 3: Whip Until Fluffy

Increase the mixer speed to high and beat for 8-10 minutes until the mixture is thick, glossy, and tripled in volume. Add cotton candy flavoring and a few drops of food coloring if desired.

Step 4: Set and Cut

Pour the mixture into a greased and powdered-sugar-dusted pan. Smooth the top and let it sit for at least 6 hours (overnight is best). Once set, cut into squares and toss in a mix of powdered sugar and cornstarch to prevent sticking.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use a candy thermometer – Precision is key for the perfect marshmallow texture.
Grease your tools – Sticky marshmallow mixture is easier to work with when utensils are lightly oiled.
Don’t skip the resting time – The marshmallows need time to set properly.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Swirl in different colors – Pastel pink and blue give them a fun cotton candy vibe.
Add sprinkles – Fold in colorful sprinkles for a party-ready treat.
Use different flavors – Try strawberry, vanilla, or even bubblegum!

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Hot cocoa topping – Drop a few marshmallows into a warm mug of cocoa.
S’mores upgrade – Replace regular marshmallows in s’mores for a cotton candy twist.
Sweet snack – Enjoy as-is for a melt-in-your-mouth treat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Do not refrigerate – This can cause marshmallows to get sticky.
Freeze for longer storage – Place in a sealed bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use agar instead of gelatin?
Yes! Use agar powder, but adjust the amounts as needed since it sets differently.
Why are my marshmallows sticky?
They need a generous dusting of powdered sugar and cornstarch to prevent stickiness.
Can I use natural food coloring?
Absolutely! Beet powder or butterfly pea powder can give a soft, natural tint.
Can I shape them differently?
Yes! Use cookie cutters for fun shapes like stars or hearts.

Conclusion

These Homemade Cotton Candy Marshmallows are a fun and delicious way to bring the carnival experience to your kitchen. Whether you eat them as a snack, use them in desserts, or gift them to friends, they’re sure to be a hit. Give them a try and enjoy their fluffy, sweet magic!

Homemade Cotton Candy Marshmallows – A Sweet and Fluffy Treat

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If you love the light, airy sweetness of cotton candy and the pillowy softness of marshmallows, this recipe is for you! These homemade marshmallows are soft, fluffy, and bursting with nostalgic cotton candy flavor. Perfect for parties, gifts, or a fun treat to enjoy anytime!

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes (includes setting time)
Yield: 12–16 marshmallows 1x
Category: Desserts
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup granulated sugar
2 1/2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
1/2 cup cold water (for blooming gelatin)
1/2 cup water (for sugar syrup)
1/2 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
A few drops of food coloring (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin
- Sprinkle gelatin over ½ cup cold water in a large mixing bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
Make the Sugar Syrup
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and ½ cup water. Heat over medium-high until it reaches 240°F (soft ball stage) using a candy thermometer.
Whip the Mixture
- Carefully pour the hot syrup into the gelatin while mixing on low speed. Increase to high and beat for 8-10 minutes until the mixture is thick and glossy.
- Mix in cotton candy flavoring and food coloring if using.
Set and Cut
- Grease a 9×9-inch pan and dust with a mix of powdered sugar and cornstarch.
- Pour in the marshmallow mixture, smooth the top, and let it set for 6 hours or overnight.
- Once firm, cut into squares and toss in additional powdered sugar and cornstarch to prevent sticking.

Notes

Use a candy thermometer to ensure the right sugar temperature.
Lightly grease your spatula and hands when working with the mixture to prevent sticking.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.