If you love the sweet, nostalgic taste of cotton candy and the soft, pillowy texture of homemade marshmallows, then these Cotton Candy Marshmallows are a dream come true! These colorful, melt-in-your-mouth treats combine the best of both worlds, making them perfect for parties, gifting, or snacking.
Unlike store-bought marshmallows, homemade ones are incredibly soft, airy, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these pastel-colored marshmallows that taste just like a bite of a carnival!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Soft, Fluffy, & Delicious – These marshmallows are lighter and fresher than anything store-bought.
✔️ Fun Cotton Candy Flavor – Brings the nostalgic taste of the carnival into every bite.
✔️ Customizable Colors – Make them pink, blue, or any pastel shade you love.
✔️ Perfect for Gifting & Parties – A great homemade treat for birthdays, baby showers, or holidays.
✔️ Easy to Make – Requires no special equipment other than a mixer!
Ingredients (Makes About 30 Marshmallows)
- 240ml (1 cup) cold water, divided
- 3 tbsp powdered gelatin (or 3 packets)
- 400g (2 cups) granulated sugar
- 160ml (2/3 cup) light corn syrup
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp cotton candy flavoring
- Pink & blue food coloring (optional)
- 60g (1/2 cup) powdered sugar
- 60g (1/2 cup) cornstarch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marshmallow Mixture
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and dust it lightly with a mix of powdered sugar and cornstarch.
- In a stand mixer bowl, add 120ml (1/2 cup) cold water and sprinkle gelatin over it. Let it sit to bloom.
Step 2: Make the Syrup
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and the remaining 120ml (1/2 cup) water.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Once dissolved, stop stirring and let it cook until it reaches 115°C (240°F) (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat immediately.
Step 3: Whip the Marshmallow Base
- Turn the mixer on low speed and slowly pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin.
- Once fully combined, increase to high speed and whip for 10-12 minutes, until it triples in volume and forms soft peaks.
- Add vanilla extract, cotton candy flavoring, and food coloring (if using). Swirl gently for a pastel effect.
Step 4: Set & Cut the Marshmallows
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Let it sit uncovered for at least 6 hours (or overnight) at room temperature.
- Dust a cutting board with the powdered sugar-cornstarch mix, then flip the marshmallow slab onto it.
- Cut into squares using a greased knife or cookie cutter.
- Toss marshmallows in the powdered sugar mix to prevent sticking.
Nutritional Information (Per Marshmallow)
- Calories: ~45 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 1g
Tips & Variations
✅ Create Swirled Colors – Add a drop of pink and blue food coloring and gently swirl before setting.
✅ Coat in Cotton Candy Sugar – Roll finished marshmallows in crushed cotton candy or colored sanding sugar for extra sweetness.
✅ Dip in Chocolate – Drizzle with melted white or milk chocolate for a fun twist.
✅ Use Different Flavors – Try adding strawberry, raspberry, or bubblegum flavors for a unique take.
✅ Make Shapes – Use fun cookie cutters to make hearts, stars, or animals for parties!
How to Store Cotton Candy Marshmallows
🕒 Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
❄️ Freezing: Place in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
⚠️ Avoid Moisture: Humidity can make marshmallows sticky, so keep them in a cool, dry place.
Ways to Enjoy Cotton Candy Marshmallows
🍫 Hot Chocolate Topping – Add to warm cocoa for a fun, colorful touch.
🍰 Cake & Cupcake Decorations – Use as a cute, edible garnish.
🍡 Fun S’mores – Swap regular marshmallows for these in a s’mores recipe!
🍭 Gift Bags & Party Favors – Package in cellophane bags for an adorable homemade gift.