Peppermint Marshmallow

By :

Claire

August 24, 2026

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

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How to make Peppermint Marshmallow

Making homemade peppermint marshmallows is a fun and delightful project. They are fluffy, sweet, and perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Follow these steps to create a batch of delicious peppermint marshmallows.

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup water
2 large egg whites
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/4 teaspoon green food coloring (optional)
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (for sprinkling)

Directions

Prepare the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, salt, and water. Cook this mixture over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Keep cooking until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage, which is about 240°F. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
Beat the Egg Whites: While the syrup is cooking, take a mixing bowl and beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This means the egg whites should hold their shape well and not collapse when you lift the beaters out.
Combine Syrup and Egg Whites: Once the syrup reaches the right temperature, slowly pour the hot syrup into the beaten egg whites. It’s important to do this while mixing on low speed to prevent splattering.
Add Flavoring and Color: After the syrup is fully incorporated, add the peppermint extract and, if you want, the green food coloring. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy.
Set the Mixture: Prepare a greased 9×9 inch pan by wiping it with a little oil or cooking spray. Pour the fluffy mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly. Let it sit at room temperature for about 4 hours or until the marshmallow is fully set.
Dust and Sprinkle: After the marshmallows have set, dust the top with powdered sugar. Then, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies evenly on top for an extra festive touch.
Cut and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the marshmallows into squares. Serve them in a dish for your guests to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Marshmallow

Peppermint marshmallows are not only fun to make, but they also taste amazing. The combination of fluffy marshmallow and cool peppermint flavor brings a burst of sweetness that is perfect for any occasion. You can enjoy them by themselves, use them in hot chocolate, or give them as gifts.

These marshmallows are also incredibly versatile. They can add a delightful touch to desserts or as a topping for cakes and cupcakes. Your friends and family will be impressed with your culinary skills!

Nutriments benefits

While marshmallows are primarily a treat and not a health food, they can provide a few easy benefits:

Low in Calories: Marshmallows have fewer calories compared to many other candies, especially when homemade without added preservatives or artificial flavors.
Egg Whites: The inclusion of egg whites adds some protein to your marshmallow. While it’s not a significant amount, every little bit helps in a balanced diet.

Moderation is key when enjoying sweet treats like peppermint marshmallows. They can certainly bring joy and sweetness to life!

What to Serve With Peppermint Marshmallow

There are many delicious ways to enjoy peppermint marshmallows:

Hot Chocolate: These marshmallows are perfect for floating on top of a warm mug of hot chocolate. They will melt slightly, making your drink even sweeter!
S’mores: Use them in place of regular marshmallows in traditional s’mores for a minty twist.
Desserts: Use these marshmallows as a topping for brownies, cheesecake, or ice cream. They can elevate the dessert experience with their fluffy texture and minty flavor.
Gifts: Pack them in a clear bag and tie them with a ribbon for sweet homemade gifts during the holidays or special occasions.

How to Store Peppermint Marshmallow

To keep your peppermint marshmallows fresh:

Keep in an Airtight Container: Place the cut marshmallows in an airtight container lined with parchment paper. They can be stacked but separate each layer with more parchment to help them not stick together.
Cool, Dark Place: Store the container in a cool, dark place. Avoid areas with high humidity to prevent the marshmallows from becoming sticky.

If stored properly, these marshmallows can last for about 1-2 weeks, but they are best enjoyed fresh!

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your peppermint marshmallows turn out perfectly, consider these tips:

Accurate Temperature: Use a candy thermometer to check the sugar mixture’s temperature. If you don’t have one, look for the soft-ball stage visually; drop a small amount of the syrup in cold water, and it should form a soft ball.
Stiff Peaks: Make sure the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks. This is essential for the right texture of the marshmallow.
Mix Slowly: When pouring the hot syrup into the egg whites, do it slowly. This prevents cooking the eggs too quickly and helps create the perfect fluffy consistency.
Avoid Humidity: Try to make these marshmallows on a dry day. Humidity can cause marshmallows to become sticky or not set correctly.

Variation

You can easily customize your peppermint marshmallows with these variations:

Chocolate Peppermint Marshmallows: Dip the marshmallows halfway in melted chocolate and let them set for a decadent combination of flavors.
Colored Marshmallows: Use a different color of food coloring to match your holiday or party theme. You can even swirl colors for a fun effect.
Spiced Marshmallows: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm twist to the peppermint flavor.
Flavored Variants: Instead of peppermint extract, try vanilla, chocolate, or almond extracts to switch up the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use an electric mixer instead of a hand mixer?
Yes, an electric mixer is a great tool to whip up the egg whites quickly and efficiently. Just make sure to use a clean bowl, as any grease will prevent the whites from whipping up properly.

2. What can I do if my marshmallows are too sticky?
If your marshmallows turn out sticky, it may be due to high humidity or not enough powdered sugar dusted on them before storage. Dusting them with more powdered sugar can help reduce the stickiness.

3. Can I freeze peppermint marshmallows?
Freezing marshmallows is possible, but it may change their texture. If you decide to freeze them, put them in an airtight container with some powdered sugar in between layers to prevent sticking. Thaw slowly at room temperature before using.

Making peppermint marshmallows can be a simple yet rewarding kitchen project. With easy steps and a few ingredients, you can create a treat that brings joy and flavor to any occasion! Enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing these sweet goodies.