#Homemade Vanilla Bean Marshmallows: A Delightful Homemade Treat!
Sink your teeth into the heavenly delight of homemade vanilla bean marshmallows. These soft, luscious pillows of sweetness are a classic American confection – delicious as an indulgent snack, a special addition to your favorite hot beverage, or used in baking for a nuanced vanilla flavor. Experience the incredible softness and pure vanilla goodness like never before!
## Why Make This Recipe?
Homemade marshmallows are out of this world! When you make them at home, you control the ingredients and flavors. With this recipe, you’ll enjoy a richer vanilla flavor and a delicate melt-in-your-mouth texture that is far superior to store-bought varieties. And the best part? It only requires basic ingredients and a little patience.
Get ready to surprise your family and friends with your culinary skills, and they may never settle for store-bought marshmallows again!
## How to Make Homemade Vanilla Bean Marshmallows
Embark on a simple and rewarding culinary journey with these clear and easy to follow steps.
### Ingredients:
– 3 packs unflavored gelatin (about 3 tablespoons)
– 1 cup cold water, divided
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped or 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
### Directions:
1. To start, prepare the gelatin by combining it with 1/2 cup cold water in the bowl of a stand mixer. Set aside for the moment.
2. In a saucepan, mix the remaining 1/2 cup water, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Cook this mixture over medium-high heat for 3 minutes, then continue cooking until it reaches 240°F (you’ll need a candy thermometer for this).
3. Next, slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the gelatin mixture, with the mixer running on low. Once completely combined, increase the speed to high and whisk until the mixture becomes glossy, thick, and white – this takes about 10 minutes. In the last minute, beat in the seeds from your vanilla bean (or vanilla extract).
4. Pour the whisked mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, then dust with powdered sugar.
5. Leave the marshmallows to sit at room temperature for 3 hours (or overnight if you have the time) in order to set.
6. Once set, turn marshmallows out onto a surface dusted with powdered sugar. Cut into squares with a sharp knife and dust all sides with more powdered sugar to prevent any stickiness.
## How to Serve Homemade Vanilla Bean Marshmallows
Enjoy your homemade marshmallows by adding them to your hot cocoa or coffee, using them for s’mores, or simply savor them on their own. Their fluffy texture and pure vanilla flavor are sure to elevate any culinary experience.
## How to Store Homemade Vanilla Bean Marshmallows
Store your homemade marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature. They should keep for up to a week. Sure to dust them lightly with powdered sugar in between layers to prevent sticking.
## Tips to Make the Perfect Homemade Marshmallows
1. Using a candy thermometer is crucial for achieving the right texture.
2. Make sure to beat the mixture until it’s thick and voluminous.
3. Letting them set properly is an important step; don’t rush it!
## Variations
You can add different flavors to your marshmallows such as almond, peppermint, or cocoa.
## FAQs
**Q:** Can I use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored?
**A:** Yes, but it will affect the color and flavor of your marshmallows.
**Q:** Can I use something else instead of corn syrup?
**A:** Corn syrup helps achieve the proper texture, but you can try substituting with agave syrup or honey.
**Q:** How long can I store homemade marshmallows?
**A:** If stored properly, they could last up to a week.
Indulge in this magical kitchen experiment and share the love with heavenly homemade vanilla bean marshmallows!