Guide Note

The marshmallow is a confection made of sugar or corn syrup, gelatin, water, dextrose and flavor extracts that are whipped into a soft, spongy texture.

Fast Facts

1. Americans eat 90 million pounds of marshmallows annually
2. August 30: National Marshmallow Toasting Day
3. Come in regular and mini sizes
4. Can be chocolate, vanilla, lemon and many other flavors

Marshmallows are a common addition to cups of hot chocolate, candied yams at Thanksgiving, Rocky Road ice cream, and Rice Krispies Treats. Most people buy bags of pre-made marshmallows, however, they can easily be homemade in a variety of flavors.

Homemade Marshmallows

1. 3 cups white sugar
2. 1/4 cup corn syrup
3. 1/4 teaspoon salt
4. 3/4 cup water
5. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
6. 1 cup confectioners' sugar for dusting

Generously coat a 9x13 dish with cooking spray. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, salt and water. Heat to between 234 and 240 degrees F (112 to 116 degrees C), or until a small amount of syrup dropped into cold water forms a soft ball that flattens when removed from the water and placed on a flat surface. Remove from heat and beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, 10 to 12 minutes. Stir in vanilla. Pour into prepared pan. Chill in refrigerator 8 hours or overnight. To cut, loosen edges with a knife. Dust surface with confectioners' sugar, and turn out onto a waxed paper lined surface. Dust with confectioners' sugar again and cut with a knife. Makes 24 large marshmallows.

— AllRecipes.com