Did you know that marshmallows are just gelatin, sugar, and egg white (well, plus a bit of salt and vanilla and then cornstarch and powdered sugar for that characteristic powdery coating)? Like so many things, homemade marshmallows blow store-bought versions out of the water. Plus, you don't need to add any drying agents or icky preservatives when you make them yourself. While well worth the effort, homemade marshmallows do require several steps, so be sure to read through all the steps and check the ingredient and equipment lists below before you start.
First, gather your ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 egg white
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 cup gelatin
- 2 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tsp. vanilla
Second, make sure you have the necessary equipment:
- Electric beaters, balloon whisk, or standing mixer
- Medium saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Several large bowls
- Large baking pan
- Clean and flat work surface (counter space or large cutting board)
