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You are here: Home / Food / How to Make Homemade Marshmallows: Valentine’s Treat

How to Make Homemade Marshmallows: Valentine’s Treat

January 28, 2025 By Robin 16 Comments

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Nothing says “I love you” like a little something made with your own two hands and a whole lot of heart. If you’re looking for a special treat to surprise someone this Valentine’s Day, these homemade marshmallows are just the thing. They’re soft, fluffy, and oh-so-sweet, perfect for the season of love. You’ll be amazed at how easy they are to make.

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homemade marshmallows

Homemade Marshmallows with Love for Valentine’s Day

Making homemade marshmallows is easier than it sounds, and the results? Simply delightful! Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy cloud of sweetness—nothing like those store-bought marshmallows. These are made from just a handful of simple ingredients and, with a little patience, turn into the most charming Valentine’s Day treats.

What I especially love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can cut the marshmallows into hearts, dust them with pretty powdered sugar, or even tint them pink with a touch of food coloring. They pair beautifully with hot cocoa, a little love note, or as a cute addition to a dessert platter. Trust me, once you make these from scratch, you’ll never go back to the store-bought kind again!

Table of Contents

  1. Sweet & Simple Ingredients
  2. Step By Step Magic
  3. How Long Will They Last
  4. Kitchen Tools Needed
  5. Recipe Variations
  6. How to Serve
  7. Storage Tips
  8. Marshmallow Recipe
  9. Helpful Tips
  10. More Inspiration

Sweet and Simple Ingredients for Homemade Marshmallows

You won’t need to rummage through dozens of cupboards to whip up these marshmallows. The magic lies in just a few simple ingredients, each doing its part to create something truly special.

Gelatin – This is the secret to that light and fluffy texture. It’s what holds the marshmallows together and gives them that lovely bounce when you take a bite. Without gelatin, we’d just have melted sugar, not marshmallow heaven!

Sugar – Regular ol’ granulated sugar is the star here. It brings the sweetness that melts in your mouth and makes these marshmallows the delicious treat they are. Be sure to stir it gently so it dissolves nicely—no gritty business here!

Corn Syrup – Now don’t go turning up your nose at this one! Corn syrup helps keep the sugar from crystallizing and makes everything smooth and creamy. Just a little goes a long way.

Vanilla – Oh, the vanilla… it’s like the hug that ties it all together, giving the marshmallows that warm, comforting flavor you just can’t resist. Use a good one because quality makes all the difference here.

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Step-by-Step Marshmallow Magic

This recipe isn’t hard, but you’ll need to set aside a little time—and maybe put on some soft music to enjoy while you work. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and follow along with these simple instructions.

  1. Take half a cup of cold water and your gelatin, and let them sit together in the bowl of your stand mixer for about 10 minutes. It’ll look a little funny, but trust me, it’s just blooming—that’s what gives marshmallows their fluff!
  2. Next, in a saucepan, mix the sugar, corn syrup, and a splash of water, and heat it all up. Stir it gently until it’s dissolved and starts to look clear, then turn the heat up and watch it bubble away until it reaches about 240°F. Use a trusty candy thermometer here! After that, give it a minute or two to cool down before pouring it over your gelatin.
  3. Turn on your stand mixer on low at first, then switch it to high. You’ll see the magic happen—it turns thick, white, and fluffy as clouds. Add in the vanilla and a dab of food coloring, if you want, whip it just a bit longer, and you’re ready to pour.
  4. Grease up that baking dish, I like to use coconut oil, but shortening works too, spread the marshmallow mixture in quick. It’ll set up as it cools, so be quick. Leave it overnight uncovered, and by morning, you’ll have the most delightful marshmallow slab. Cut them into squares or make heart-shaped ones for Valentine’s Day, dust them in powdered sugar so they don’t stick.

question

How long do homemade marshmallows last?

If you store them in an airtight container they’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 weeks. But if your family is anything like mine, they’ll be gone long before that!

HELPFUL TOOLS

 KitchenAid Stand MixerKitchenAid Stand Mixer Candy ThermometerCandy Thermometer Saucepan (2-qt)Saucepan (2-qt) SpatulaSpatula 9×13 Baking Dish9x13 Baking Dish

(may include affiliate links)

variations

Creative Marshmallow Variations

The possibilities are as endless! Here are a few ways to switch things up with your marshmallows:

  • Chocolate Dipped Marshmallows – Stick a few of these fluffy treats on skewers, dip them in melted chocolate, and sprinkle with tiny hearts. Perfect for Valentine’s Day gifting!
  • Coconut Marshmallows – Roll the freshly cut marshmallows in shredded coconut for a tropical twist. My grandkids adore these!
  • Peppermint Crunch Marshmallows – Sprinkle them with crushed mint candies before drying them overnight. They taste wonderful added to a cup of hot cocoa.

Perfect Ways to Enjoy Homemade Marshmallows

Set out a plate of these marshmallows beside a steaming pot of hot cocoa, or wrap them in little cellophane bags with bows to give as Valentine’s treats. If you ask me, they’re best enjoyed fresh.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate – If you’ve made a big batch, you can store marshmallows in the fridge for a slightly longer shelf life. Wrap them tight!

Freeze – Yes, you can freeze marshmallows! Pop them into a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last a couple of months. Just thaw them at room temp before serving.

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recipe

Print Recipe
5 from 3 votes

Valentine’s Day Marshmallows

Prep Time20 minutes mins
Cook Time10 minutes mins
Total Time30 minutes mins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 30 + pieces
Calories: 73kcal
Author: Robin | Fluster Buster

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cold water
  • 3 envelopes 0.25 ounce unflavored gelatin
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 4 teaspoons vanilla
  • red food coloring
  • coconut oil or shortening
  • confectioners sugar for dusting

Instructions

  • Combine 1/2 cup of water and gelatin in the bowl of an electric stand mixer and allow to sit for 10 minutes.
  • In a small saucepan, over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup and 1/2 cup water and cook until sugar is dissolved. Turn the heat up and cook until the syrup has reached 240°F on a candy thermometer. Cover and remove from heat, allow it to sit for 2-3 minutes before adding it to the gelatin mixture.
  • On low speed, using the whisk attachment, slow mix the syrup mixture into the gelatin mixture. Turn the mixer to high an whip until it becomes thick and double its size, about 10 minutes. Add vanilla and food coloring and mix an additional 5 minutes on high.
  • Generously grease a 9×13 glass baking dish with coconut oil (or shortening). Quickly pour the marshmallow mixture into the baking dish.
  • Allow to sit uncovered, overnight at room temperature until it dries out.
  • Turn the marshmallows out onto a board dusted with confectioners sugar. Cut them into squares, or use a heart shaped cookie cutter and dust them with more confectioners sugar.

Notes

The Nutritional Facts that have been calculated on this recipe are only estimates.

Nutrition

Calories: 73kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 1mg | Sugar: 19g | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.01mg

This homemade marshmallow recipe is the perfect way to add a little sweetness to Valentine’s Day—or any day, really. There’s something so special about sharing handmade treats, and I just know your loved ones will feel all your love in every bite. Now go on and spread some sweetness!

tips

TIPS

  • Don’t add the hot syrup, to the gelatin, until the bubbles in the syrup have decreased.
  • When adding the syrup to the mixer, slowly pour it down the wall of the bowl.
  • DO NOT refrigerate, the moisture from the fridge will ruin the marshmallows.
  • Store marshmallows in an air-tight container.
  • Use a candy thermometer to make sure the sugar reaches the right temperature.
  • Dust your cookie cutters with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
  • Swap vanilla for peppermint extract if you want a minty twist.

 

Have you ever made homemade marshmallows before, or do you have a favorite way to enjoy them?

inspiration

MORE INSPIRATION

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Satisfy your sweet tooth with this creamy, melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter fudge recipe that’s irresistibly easy to make. Perfect for gifting or indulging, this treat will become a fast favorite for any occasion!

A simple recipe for a soft and chewy, brightly colored, sugar coated, fruit flavored candy.Homemade Fruit Flavored Gumdrop Candy
Learn how to make colorful, chewy gumdrops at home with this fun and simple recipe. Perfect for parties, gifts, or just a sweet treat, these homemade candies are as delightful to make as they are to eat!

No-Bake S’mores Refrigerator Cake
Indulge in the gooey goodness of s’mores with this quick and easy no-bake cake recipe. Layers of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers create the ultimate treat without ever needing a campfire!

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Treat yourself to rich, decadent chocolate espresso cupcakes that are perfect for any coffee lover. With a gourmet twist, these cupcakes blend deep chocolate and bold espresso flavors in every bite!

RECENT POSTS

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Originally posted on: 01/28/2019

Filed Under: Food, Simple Recipes Tagged With: candy, dessert, holiday, recipe, simple, Valentine's day

Comments

  1. Shannon says

    February 6, 2019 at 8:38 am

    5 stars
    The grandkids (and their mommies!) would love this!

    Reply
    • Robin says

      February 6, 2019 at 11:16 am

      You’ll be amazed at how simple they are to make!

      Reply
  2. Teresa says

    February 8, 2019 at 11:52 am

    I’ve been meaning to try this for a long time. I even download a strawberry marshmallow recipe a while ago but then never really found the time to make it. Thank you for sharing your tutorial at The Really Crafty Link Party, maybe this is just the push I needed.
    Pinned!

    Reply
    • Robin says

      February 8, 2019 at 5:01 pm

      They are totally worth making, they are delicious!

      Reply
  3. Kippi says

    February 9, 2019 at 8:28 am

    Yummy, I want to make some of these for our hot cocoa and I am wondering if there is a substitute for corn syrup? Pinning to my hot cocoa board! Happy Valentine’s Day, Kippi #kippiathome

    Reply
    • Robin says

      February 9, 2019 at 1:08 pm

      You can substitute the corn syrup by dissolving 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar in 1/4 cup hot water.

      Reply
  4. April J Harris says

    February 11, 2019 at 11:58 am

    5 stars
    These are so pretty! Love the idea of homemade marshmallows, Robin. They are so much more wholesome. Thank you for sharing, and for being a part of the Hearth and Soul Link Party. Hope to see you again this week. Have a lovely week ahead!

    Reply
  5. Esme Slabbert says

    February 5, 2025 at 11:28 am

    Super cute, love the heart shapes with the extra detail used
    Saw this awesome post at Creative Muster Link-Up.
    My entries are Soy Teriyaki Baked Chicken Thighs and Oven-Baked Greek Chicken with Herb Butter

    Reply
    • Robin says

      February 5, 2025 at 10:42 pm

      Thank you so much! I’m so glad you enjoyed the heart shapes and details. Your dishes sound absolutely delicious—can’t wait to check them out! Thanks for sharing and for being a part of the Creative Muster Link-Up!

      Reply
  6. Estelle Forrest says

    February 12, 2025 at 11:15 pm

    This is such a fun treat to make at home. So happy to see you again at the #HomeMattersParty. I hope you will stop by tomorrow to see your post featured!

    Reply
    • Robin says

      February 13, 2025 at 10:01 pm

      Homemade marshmallows are definitely a fun (and delicious!) treat! 😊 Thank you so much for the feature—I truly appreciate it! I’ll be sure to stop by tomorrow.

      Reply
  7. Jennifer Wise says

    February 17, 2025 at 12:57 pm

    5 stars
    How fun is this?! What a great idea. Pinning to save and share. Visiting from the Sweet Tea & Friends linkup.

    Reply
    • Robin says

      February 17, 2025 at 4:01 pm

      Thank you so much! Homemade marshmallows are definitely a fun (and tasty!) treat to make. I really appreciate the pin and share! 😊 So glad you found us at Sweet Tea & Friends linkup!

      Reply

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