Cotton Candy Marshmallows

Cotton Candy Marshmallows are pure magic—fluffy, colorful, and bursting with nostalgic carnival flavor. You don’t need a candy thermometer or complicated tools. In less than 30 minutes of active prep time, you can whip up homemade marshmallows that are just as beautiful as they are delicious. With their swirled pink and blue design and fun cotton candy flavoring, these treats are guaranteed to wow guests at parties, baby showers, or cozy nights in with hot chocolate.

Why You’ll Love Cotton Candy Marshmallows

• Whimsical look: The pastel pink and blue swirl is perfect for parties or themed desserts.
• Easy prep: No candy thermometer or special equipment beyond a stand mixer.
• Fun flavor: Cotton candy flavoring gives a sweet, nostalgic taste kids and adults love.
• Great texture: Soft, fluffy, and chewy—just like the best marshmallows should be.
• Perfect for gifting: These marshmallows hold their shape well and look amazing packaged up!

Ingredients

• 2½ tablespoons powdered gelatin (from 3 packets)
• 1 cup cold water, divided (50°F)
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup light corn syrup
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons cotton candy flavoring (2 fl drams)
• Pink and blue food coloring
• ¾ cup powdered sugar

Directions

1. Bloom the gelatin:
   In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together 2½ tablespoons of powdered gelatin with ½ cup cold water. Let the mixture sit undisturbed for 8–10 minutes. This blooming step is essential for creating that fluffy texture.
2. Make the sugar syrup:
   While the gelatin is blooming, combine the remaining ½ cup cold water, 1½ cups granulated sugar, ¾ cup light corn syrup, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt in a medium saucepan.
   Set over medium heat and stir constantly as the mixture comes to a simmer. Continue whisking for 6–8 minutes until the mixture becomes clear. Remove from heat.
3. Whip the base:
   With the mixer on low speed and the whisk attachment in place, slowly pour the hot sugar mixture into the bloomed gelatin.
   Once fully incorporated, increase the speed to high and whip for 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes thick, fluffy, and bright white.
4. Add flavor and color:
   Add 2 teaspoons of cotton candy flavoring to the whipped marshmallow base and beat for another 1 minute.
   Divide the mixture evenly between two bowls. Add pink food coloring to one bowl and blue to the other, stirring each gently until the color is uniform.
5. Prepare the pan:
   Dust a 9×13-inch baking pan with ½ cup of powdered sugar, coating the bottom and sides well to prevent sticking.
6. Layer and swirl:
   Using two large spoons or spatulas, drop alternating spoonfuls of pink and blue marshmallow mixtures into the prepared pan to create a marbled effect.
   Smooth the top using a greased or powdered rubber spatula. Dust the top with the remaining ¼ cup powdered sugar.
7. Set:
   Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and let the marshmallows set at room temperature for 8–12 hours (overnight is best).
8. Cut and finish:
   Once firm, carefully lift the marshmallow slab from the pan onto a cutting board. Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors dusted with powdered sugar to cut into 1-inch cubes. Dust off any excess sugar before serving.

Pro Tips and Variations

• No flavoring? Try vanilla extract or strawberry flavoring as an alternative.
• Color play: Use gel coloring for vibrant hues; water-based dyes work but are subtler.
• Custom shapes: Use small cookie cutters for hearts, stars, or themed shapes.
• Layering tip: Alternate dollops quickly for better swirl effects—don’t overmix the colors.

Serving Suggestions

• Add to hot chocolate for a fun twist.
• Use in s’mores with white chocolate.
• Serve on dessert platters at parties or baby showers.
• Stack and skewer for edible marshmallow kabobs.

Storage / Reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
• Freezer: Freeze in layers separated by parchment for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp.
• Reheating: Not necessary, but can be lightly toasted over a flame if desired.

FAQs

Can I use liquid food coloring?
A: Yes, but gel food coloring gives more vibrant color with less liquid.

Do I need a candy thermometer?
A: Nope! This recipe is designed to be thermometer-free—just follow the timing.

Can I use agar agar instead of gelatin?
A: Gelatin is key for the texture in this recipe. Agar doesn’t yield the same bouncy consistency.

Is cotton candy flavoring necessary?
A: It gives that classic carnival flavor, but you can use strawberry, raspberry, or vanilla in a pinch.

Conclusion

These Cotton Candy Marshmallows are not only eye-catching, they’re irresistibly delicious. With their sweet pastel swirls and fluffy bite, they bring a playful twist to classic marshmallows and make any occasion feel extra special. Whether you’re hosting a themed party or just want to impress your family, this easy homemade marshmallow recipe is a guaranteed showstopper.