Strawberry Swirl Marshmallows
Strawberry Swirl Marshmallows are a delightful twist on a classic treat that combines fluffy sweetness with the vibrant flavor of strawberries. These marshmallows are not only soft and chewy but also boast a beautiful swirl of strawberry color that makes them as fun to look at as they are to eat. Whether you enjoy them as a snack with a cup of hot chocolate, use them for s’mores, or add them to your favorite desserts, each bite is sure to bring a smile.
Table of Contents
I first discovered the joy of making marshmallows during a lazy summer afternoon. I remember my kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of sugar bubbling on the stove, and the anticipation of seeing how my fluffy creations would turn out. Now, Strawberry Swirl Marshmallows have become a family favorite, and I can confidently say that homemade marshmallows far surpass any store-bought version. They’re easy to make and allow for endless customization. Plus, who wouldn’t want to impress friends and family with a batch of homemade marshmallows?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: In just about 30 minutes, you can create a batch of delightful marshmallows.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of strawberry jello and extract creates a sweet, fruity explosion in every bite.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant swirls of red not only taste great but make for a stunning presentation.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for parties, cozy nights in, or as a fun gift, these marshmallows are a treat for every occasion.
- Diet-Friendly Options: With careful ingredient choices, you can adapt this recipe for various dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: This is used to coat the marshmallows and interrupt stickiness.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Combined with the powdered sugar, it helps prevent the marshmallows from sticking together.
- 2 packets unflavored gelatin: This is essential for the marshmallow structure, giving them that wonderful fluff.
- 1 cup water, divided: We use half to bloom the gelatin and the other half in the sugar syrup.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the marshmallow’s structure.
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup: This gives the marshmallows a smooth consistency and prevents crystallization.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 3 ounces strawberry jello: Introduces a fruity flavor and contributes color.
- 3 teaspoons strawberry extract: Enhances the strawberry flavor, making it rich and full.
- 2 drops red gel food coloring: Optional, for extra color to create that beautiful swirl.
How to Make Strawberry Swirl Marshmallows
Bloom the gelatin: In a small bowl, add the 2 packets of unflavored gelatin along with 1/2 cup of water. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it firms up, or “blooms.” This step is crucial for ensuring your marshmallows have the perfect texture.
Prepare the syrup: In a large saucepan, combine the 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light corn syrup, the remaining 1/2 cup water, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture reaches a temperature of 240 degrees F. A candy thermometer will be helpful here – it’s the magic number for making perfect marshmallows!
Add the jello: Once the sugar syrup is hot enough, whisk in the 3 ounces of strawberry jello until fully dissolved. The vibrant color and luscious flavor will genuinely transform your marshmallows.
Mix in gelatin: Carefully pour the hot sugar mixture into the bowl with the bloomed gelatin. This will help it dissolve smoothly. It’s important to do this slowly and steadily to avoid splatters.
Whip it up: Using a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the mixture on high for 8 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for it to become fluffy, white, and hold stiff peaks. The transformation is quite mesmerizing!
Prepare the pan: While the marshmallow mixture is whipping, take an 8×8 inch square pan and lightly spray it with nonstick baking spray. In a separate small bowl, mix together the 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons cornstarch, reserving half to sprinkle on top later. Dust the greased pan with the remaining powdered sugar/cornstarch mixture.
Add flavor and color: In the last minute of mixing, add the 3 teaspoons of strawberry extract and the 2 drops of red gel food coloring. This final touch will ramp up the flavor and aesthetics.
Transfer to the pan: Pour the whipped marshmallow mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer. If you want to create a striking red swirl, add 1 to 2 more drops of food coloring on either end of the mixture, and gently swirl with a skewer for that artistic touch.
Dust and set: Sprinkle the top of the marshmallow layer with the reserved powdered sugar/cornstarch mixture to prevent stickiness. Now, let the marshmallows set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, although letting them sit overnight is best for full firmness.
Cut into pieces: Once firm, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter dusted with powdered sugar to cut the marshmallows into 12 equal pieces. If they stick, dust the knife with more of the sugar mixture for easy cutting.
Toss to finish: Finally, toss each piece of marshmallow in additional powdered sugar to coat all sides and keep the edges from becoming sticky.
Storing & Reheating
To keep your Strawberry Swirl Marshmallows fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you need to refrigerate them, place them in a covered container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking; they’ll last about a month. You can even freeze these treats for up to three months! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in a heavy-duty freezer bag. To refresh frozen marshmallows, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Ensure your saucepan is clean for the sugar syrup—any tiny specks can cause crystallization.
- Use a candy thermometer to achieve the perfect temperature; it’s key to making soft marshmallows.
- Whipping the mixture too short won’t yield the required fluffiness, so let that mixer do its job.
- If your marshmallows seem a bit sticky, don’t hesitate to dust them liberally with powdered sugar after cutting.
- Experiment with flavors: vanilla, or raspberry extract can add a delightful twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
Strawberry Swirl Marshmallows bring a cheerful touch to your dessert table or special occasions. The fluffy, fruit-filled bites are whimsical and comforting, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones—or simply enjoying yourself. Don’t be shy; play around with the colors and flavors, creating your unique marshmallow masterpiece.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of jello?
While you can try using fresh strawberries, you’ll need to ensure they’re pureed and balanced with additional sugar since fresh fruit isn’t as sweet and lacks the firm consistency that jello adds. This may alter the texture of your marshmallows significantly.
How can I make these marshmallows without corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with honey or agave syrup in a pinch, but keep in mind that it may affect the final consistency slightly. Make sure to adjust the sugar to maintain sweetness.
What should I do if my marshmallows aren’t fluffy?
If your marshmallows haven’t fluffed up, likely, they weren’t whipped long enough or the sugar syrup didn’t reach the required temperature. Next time, give it a little more time and make sure to use a thermometer.
Can I make these vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! You can substitute unflavored gelatin with agar-agar for a vegan version of your Strawberry Swirl Marshmallows. Adjust the blooming and setup instructions according to the package instructions for the best results!
PrintMore Desserts & Appetizers Recipes
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- Chocolate Raspberry Truffles
- Paleo Pumpkin Donut Holes
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📖 Recipe Card
Strawberry Swirl Marshmallows
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: NO DATA
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 15 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts & Appetizers
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Strawberry Swirl Marshmallows are a delightful, fluffy treat bursting with strawberry flavor. Easy to make with simple ingredients, they are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings anytime.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 packets of unflavored gelatin
- 1 cup water divided
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 ounces strawberry jello
- 3 teaspoons strawberry extract
- 2 drops red gel food coloring
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix unflavored gelatin with 1/2 cup of water and let it bloom.
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, remaining 1/2 cup water, and salt. Heat over medium until it reaches 240 degrees F.
- Stir in strawberry jello into the saucepan and mix well.
- Transfer bloomed gelatin to a stand mixer bowl and gradually pour in the hot sugar mixture to dissolve the gelatin.
- Whip the mixture with the whisk attachment for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes fluffy and stiff.
- Prepare an 8×8 inch square pan by lightly spraying it with nonstick baking spray.
- In a separate bowl, mix powdered sugar and cornstarch, reserving half for dusting later.
- Dust the prepared pan with the powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture.
- In the last minute of whipping, add strawberry extract and food coloring, then continue to beat.
- Pour the marshmallow mixture into the dusted pan.
- For a red swirl, add 1 to 2 extra drops of food coloring on either side of the mixture and swirl it with a skewer.
- Dust the top of the marshmallows with the remaining powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture.
- Let the marshmallows rest for a minimum of 4 hours to firm up; overnight is ideal.
- Cut into 12 pieces using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, dusting the knife with powdered sugar/cornstarch if sticky.
- Toss marshmallows in additional powdered sugar to prevent stickiness.
Notes
Ensure the sugar syrup reaches the correct temperature for proper marshmallow texture.
You can customize the food coloring for a more vibrant swirl effect.
These marshmallows store well in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 marshmallow
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
