Cotton Candy Marshmallows
Make soft, fluffy cotton candy marshmallows at home with simple ingredients. This no-bake recipe is perfect for parties, gifting, or adding to hot cocoa. Ready in a few easy steps!
Ingredients
Marshmallows
- ¾ cup 180 ml cold water, divided
- 3 envelopes unflavored gelatin 7 g each
- 2 cups 400 g granulated sugar
- ½ cup 120 ml light corn syrup
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp cotton candy flavoring
- Gel food coloring pink, blue, or any preferred color
Dusting Mixture
- ½ cup 65 g powdered sugar
- ¼ cup 30 g cornstarch
Instructions
Prepare the Pan
- Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Bloom the Gelatin
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine ½ cup cold water and gelatin. Let sit 5–10 minutes until swollen.
Make the Sugar Syrup
- In a saucepan, add sugar, corn syrup, salt, and remaining ¼ cup water.
- Heat over medium until sugar dissolves, then increase heat and bring to 240°F (115°C) using a candy thermometer.
Whip the Marshmallow Base
- Turn the mixer on low. Carefully pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin.
- Increase speed to high and beat 10–12 minutes until thick, glossy, and fluffy.
Add Flavor & Color
- Mix in cotton candy flavoring and desired food coloring.
Transfer & Set
- Spread the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan. Smooth the top.
- Let set 6–8 hours or overnight.
Cut & Coat
- Mix powdered sugar and cornstarch.
- Dust your work surface, turn out the marshmallow slab, and coat the top.
- Cut into squares or shapes with a greased knife or cookie cutters.
- Toss each marshmallow in the dusting mixture.
Serve & Enjoy
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Notes
Use a candy thermometer to ensure exact syrup temperature.
Add two colors for a swirl or tie-dye effect.
Grease your knife to keep cuts clean.
Don’t rush the setting time—patience = perfect texture.