Originally made using the extract derived
from the roots of the marshmallow plant, today this sweet treat
is made with corn syrup, gelatin and sugar.
Homemade Marshmallows
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
Powdered sugar for dusting
- Combine gelatin and 1/2 cup cold water
in the bowl of an electric mixer with whisk attachment. Let stand
30 minutes.
- Combine granulated sugar, corn syrup,
salt, and 1/2 cup water in a small heavy saucepan; place over
low heat, and stir until sugar has dissolved. Wash down sides
of pan with a wet pastry brush to dissolve sugar crystals.
- Raise heat to high and cook syrup without
stirring until it reaches 244*F (firm-ball stage). Immediately
remove pan from heat.
- With mixer on low speed, slowly and carefully
pour syrup into the softened gelatin. Increase speed to high;
beat until mixture is very thick and white and has almost tripled
in volume, about 15 minutes. Add vanilla; beat to incorporate.
- Generously dust an 8 x 2-inch glass baking
pan with powdered sugar. Pour marshmallow mixture into pan. Dust
top with powdered sugar; wet your hands, and pat it to smooth.
Dust with powdered sugar; let stand overnight, uncovered, to
dry out.
- Turn out onto a board; cut marshmallows
with a dry hot knife into 1 1/2-inch squares, and dust with more
powdered sugar.
Makes about 40 (1 1/2-inch) squares.
Cook's Note:
Instead of vanilla extract, use other flavorings like cherry
extract. Tint the marshmallow mixture with food coloring to reflect
the flavor.
