There’s something truly magical about making homemade treats, isn’t there? I mean, who can resist the puffy, fluffy goodness of marshmallows? Now, add a splash of peppermint, and you’ve got a holiday delight that’s hard to beat! These peppermint marshmallows bring back so many cozy memories for me—like wrapping up in a blanket with a steaming cup of cocoa, watching the snow fall outside. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought. They’re super easy to whip up and taste like little clouds of happiness. So, let’s dive into this recipe and create some sweet magic together!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful peppermint marshmallows. I promise, these ingredients come together to create something truly special!
- 1 cup granulated sugar: This is the base sweetness that makes our marshmallows delightful.
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup: It helps achieve that perfect fluffy texture and keeps them from being too sticky.
- 1/4 cup water: Just enough to dissolve the sugar and corn syrup smoothly.
- 2 large egg whites: These are the secret to fluffy marshmallows! Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best results.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: This gives those marshmallows their festive flavor. Feel free to adjust based on how minty you want them!
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For dusting and preventing the marshmallows from sticking together.
How to Prepare Instructions
Making these peppermint marshmallows is easier than you might think! Just follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to fluffy, minty goodness.
Step 1: Prepare Your Dish
First things first, grab a baking dish (9×9 inches works great) and give it a good spray with non-stick spray. This little step is super important because it ensures your marshmallows won’t stick, making it a breeze to remove them later. Trust me, you don’t want to battle with sticky marshmallows!
Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup
Now, let’s get cooking! In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Heat it over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves completely. You’ll want to keep an eye on it as it bubbles away—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the mixture is clear and slightly thickened, it’s ready to go!
Step 3: Beat the Egg Whites
While your sugar syrup is heating up, let’s whip those egg whites! In a separate, clean bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This means that when you lift the beaters out, the peaks stand straight up without drooping. It’s like magic! This fluffy texture is what makes the marshmallows so light and airy.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Once your egg whites are ready and your sugar syrup is perfectly dissolved, it’s time to combine them! Carefully pour the hot sugar mixture into the egg whites while mixing on low speed. Be sure to do this slowly—if you pour too quickly, it can deflate the egg whites. After everything is mixed, add in the peppermint extract and salt, then mix until everything is well combined. You’ll see that beautiful fluffy marshmallow mixture come to life!
Step 5: Set the Mixture
Now it’s time for the fun part! Pour that fluffy mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. Make sure it’s nice and smooth across the top. Then, let it sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or until it’s fully set. Patience is key here, but I promise it’s worth the wait!
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once your marshmallows are set, dust the top with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Then, using a sharp knife (or kitchen scissors, if you prefer!), cut them into squares. Each bite is a little taste of heaven! Serve them as they are, or toss a few into your hot chocolate for a festive twist. Enjoy your homemade peppermint marshmallows! They’re sure to bring a smile to your face.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh my goodness, where do I even start? Making these peppermint marshmallows is not just fun; it’s a total game-changer for your holiday treats! First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. Seriously, if I can do it, so can you! You get to whip up something that’s not only delightful but also impressively fluffy. Just imagine biting into that soft, airy texture—it’s like a cloud of minty joy!
These marshmallows are perfect for adding a festive touch to any gathering. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire with family or surprising friends with homemade goodies, they’ll be a hit! Plus, they’re super versatile. You can toss them into a steaming mug of hot chocolate, use them in desserts, or even just enjoy them on their own. Trust me, once you have a batch of these on hand, you’ll find every excuse to indulge!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make your peppermint marshmallows, let me share some of my favorite tips for ensuring they turn out perfectly every time!
- Room Temperature Egg Whites: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating them. They whip up fluffier and give you that ideal airy texture.
- Don’t Rush the Sugar Syrup: Take your time when dissolving the sugar in the saucepan. If it’s not fully dissolved, your marshmallows might turn out grainy. Keep the heat steady and watch for that clear consistency!
- Adjust the Peppermint: If you like a stronger mint flavor, feel free to add a little extra peppermint extract. Just remember to taste as you go—too much can be overwhelming!
- Use Confectioners’ Sugar Generously: When dusting the marshmallows, don’t skimp on the powdered sugar! It really helps prevent them from sticking together, making them easier to handle.
- Patience is Key: Resist the urge to cut them too early! Let them set for at least 4 hours, or even overnight for the best results. The longer they sit, the firmer they’ll become.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feeling adventurous? Try adding different extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist. You can even fold in festive sprinkles for added fun!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the fluffiest, most delicious peppermint marshmallows! Enjoy the process and have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Okay, let’s chat about the nutritional side of these delightful peppermint marshmallows! Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these values are just an estimate. But here’s what you can typically expect per serving (that’s one marshmallow):
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
So, while they’re sugary and sweet, these little marshmallows can definitely bring a touch of joy to your holiday treats without completely derailing your day! Enjoy them in moderation, and they’re sure to be a hit!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making these delightful peppermint marshmallows? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my best answers:
Can I use different extracts?
Absolutely! While peppermint is a classic choice, you can totally experiment with other extracts like vanilla, almond, or even orange for a fun twist. Just remember to start with a small amount and taste as you go to find the flavor balance you love!
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your marshmallows fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay good for about a week. If you live in a humid area, you might want to dust them with a bit more powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together.
Can I make these marshmallows without egg whites?
If you’re looking for an egg-free option, you can try using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a substitute for egg whites! Just whip it up until stiff peaks form, similar to how you would with egg whites. It’s a fantastic alternative that still gives you that fluffy texture!
If you have any more questions or need advice while making your marshmallows, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy marshmallow-making!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your homemade peppermint marshmallows is super easy! Just pop them into an airtight container to keep them fresh and fluffy. I usually layer them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar to prevent sticking, which makes it easier to grab one (or two… or three!) later on. They’ll stay good at room temperature for about a week, but trust me, they probably won’t last that long!
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature. No reheating needed—just dive right in! You can enjoy them as a sweet treat on their own or toss them into your favorite hot chocolate for that extra minty goodness. Happy snacking!
Peppermint Marshmallows: 5 Steps to Heavenly Treats
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Homemade peppermint marshmallows that are fluffy and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Grease a baking dish with non-stick spray.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Slowly pour the sugar mixture into the egg whites while mixing.
- Add peppermint extract and salt, then mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the greased dish and spread evenly.
- Let it sit for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- You can adjust the peppermint flavor to your liking.
- These marshmallows can be used in hot chocolate.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 marshmallow
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Peppermint marshmallows, homemade marshmallows, holiday treats