Name: Raspberry Marshmallows
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-482844H46M8S
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: Prepare the raspberry puree: Blend the raspberries until smooth. Use a fine mesh sieve to strain the puree and remove seeds. You should have around 1/2 cup of raspberry puree.; Bloom the gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to bloom (absorb the water).; Heat the raspberry mixture: In a saucepan, combine the raspberry puree, the remaining 1/2 cup water, sugar, and lemon juice (if using). Heat over medium heat while stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is heated through. Remove from heat.; Dissolve the gelatin: Stir the bloomed gelatin into the warm raspberry mixture until completely dissolved.; Whip the mixture: Pour the raspberry-gelatin mixture into a stand mixer or large bowl. Add vanilla extract and salt. Whip at medium-high speed for about 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture becomes thick, fluffy, and forms stiff peaks.; Set the marshmallows: Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, or lightly grease it. Pour the marshmallow mixture into the pan and spread evenly. Let the mixture set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight.; Cut and coat the marshmallows: Once set, dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Turn the marshmallow block out onto the surface and cut it into squares. Coat each marshmallow in powdered sugar to prevent sticking.; Serve and enjoy: Enjoy your raspberry marshmallows on their own, in hot cocoa, or as part of your favorite desserts!

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Raspberry Marshmallows are a delightful twist on the traditional marshmallow treat. Light, fluffy, and bursting with the vibrant flavor of fresh raspberries, these homemade marshmallows are a perfect addition to your dessert table or as a sweet snack on their own. The combination of raspberry puree and the airy, pillowy texture of marshmallows creates a refreshing and unique flavor that you won’t find in store-bought versions. Plus, making your own marshmallows is easier than you might think, and the results are well worth the effort!

These marshmallows are perfect for a special occasion, a homemade gift, or just to enjoy during the holidays or a cozy night in. The raspberry flavor adds a fruity punch that complements the natural sweetness of the marshmallow base. Whether you enjoy them on their own or use them to top hot chocolate, these raspberry marshmallows will be a hit with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique and Delicious Flavor

The raspberry flavor is a refreshing departure from classic vanilla marshmallows. It’s sweet, tangy, and packed with fruitiness, offering a delightful treat for the taste buds.

2. Perfect for Gift-Giving

Homemade marshmallows make a thoughtful and personal gift. You can wrap them up in pretty packaging and give them away for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.

3. Fun to Make

Making marshmallows from scratch is surprisingly fun, especially if you love experimenting with new flavors. The process involves whipping up a fluffy texture and the thrill of watching it set into perfectly soft, pillowy shapes.

4. Customizable

Feel free to get creative by adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a coating of chocolate, or even using different berry flavors if raspberries aren’t in season.

5. No Artificial Additives

Making marshmallows from scratch means you know exactly what’s in them, unlike store-bought versions that often contain preservatives and artificial flavors.

Ingredients

For the Marshmallows:

Gelatin (unflavored)
Fresh raspberries (or raspberry puree)
Sugar
Corn syrup
Water
Vanilla extract
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Pinch of salt

Optional for Garnish:

Crushed freeze-dried raspberries (for extra flavor)
Chocolate for dipping

Variations

Add Chocolate: For a chocolate-covered version, dip the marshmallows in melted chocolate after they’ve set and sprinkle with extra freeze-dried raspberries for a fancy touch.
Make Other Berry Flavors: You can substitute raspberries with strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries to make a variety of fruit-flavored marshmallows.
Try a Zesty Twist: Add a little lemon zest or lime zest to the raspberry mixture for a citrusy contrast that pairs well with the berry flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes. This helps activate the gelatin and ensures a smooth marshmallow texture.

Step 2: Cook the Syrup

In a saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, remaining water, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved. Once it’s dissolved, increase the heat to bring the syrup to a boil and cook until it reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the “soft-ball” stage, which is crucial for the perfect marshmallow consistency.

Step 3: Puree the Raspberries

While the syrup is cooking, blend the raspberries in a blender or food processor to create a smooth puree. You can strain the puree to remove the seeds, if desired, but this step is optional depending on your texture preference.

Step 4: Combine the Gelatin and Syrup

Once the syrup has reached the right temperature, remove it from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin to the syrup and stir until the gelatin has fully dissolved. Then, add the raspberry puree and vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring to combine.

Step 5: Whip the Marshmallow Base

Transfer the mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer or use a hand mixer. Whip the mixture on high speed for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes thick, glossy, and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it holds stiff peaks.

Step 6: Set the Marshmallow

Pour the marshmallow mixture into a greased 9×9-inch pan or a silicone mold. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Dust the top with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Let the marshmallows set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.

Step 7: Cut and Dust

Once the marshmallows have set, dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Turn the marshmallows out of the pan and cut them into squares or your desired shapes. Dust the cut edges with more powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Work Quickly: Once you start whipping the marshmallow mixture, work quickly to transfer it to the pan before it sets too much.
Use a Candy Thermometer: To ensure the syrup reaches the correct temperature, use a candy thermometer. This step is key to achieving the perfect marshmallow texture.
Avoid Humidity: Marshmallows can be sensitive to humidity. If it’s a particularly humid day, it might take longer for them to set properly.
Coat with Powdered Sugar: Make sure to generously dust your marshmallows with powdered sugar before cutting them. This helps prevent them from sticking together.

How to Serve

Raspberry marshmallows can be enjoyed on their own as a sweet treat or used in a variety of ways. Drop them into hot chocolate for a fruity twist, serve them with coffee or tea, or enjoy them as a snack. They also make a great addition to s’mores, or they can be packed in gift bags as homemade goodies for family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you live in a humid climate, keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their fluffiness.

Freezing

You can freeze marshmallows for up to 2-3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are well-coated in powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Reheating

If your marshmallows become too sticky, you can toss them in a little more powdered sugar to restore their texture. You can also zap them briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften them slightly for a chewy experience.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought raspberry jam instead of fresh raspberries?

Yes, you can substitute raspberry jam for fresh raspberries. Just make sure to reduce the amount of sugar you add, as the jam will already be sweetened.

2. How do I prevent my marshmallows from being too sticky?

Make sure to coat the marshmallows generously with powdered sugar, and store them in an airtight container to keep them from absorbing moisture from the air.

3. Can I make these marshmallows without a candy thermometer?

A candy thermometer is recommended for accuracy, but you can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready.

4. Can I make this recipe with other fruits?

Yes! You can make fruit-flavored marshmallows with other purees like strawberry, blueberry, or mango. Just substitute the raspberry puree with your desired fruit.

5. Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin?

Yes, you can substitute agar-agar for gelatin, but the setting process and ratios will vary. Agar-agar requires boiling to activate, so follow the package instructions carefully.

6. Can I add food coloring to the marshmallows?

Yes, feel free to add a few drops of red or pink food coloring to the marshmallow mixture for a more vibrant appearance.

7. Can I make marshmallows without a stand mixer?

Yes, but it will be more challenging. A hand mixer works too, or you can try whipping the marshmallow mixture manually, although this will take longer.

8. Can I store these marshmallows in the fridge?

It’s not necessary to refrigerate marshmallows. In fact, storing them in the fridge may cause them to become too firm. Keep them at room temperature for best results.

9. How long do raspberry marshmallows last?

Raspberry marshmallows last about 2 weeks at room temperature if stored properly in an airtight container.

10. Can I dip these in chocolate?

Yes, dipping these marshmallows in chocolate can add an extra layer of sweetness and texture. Simply melt your favorite chocolate and dip each marshmallow, then allow it to set.

Conclusion

Raspberry Marshmallows are a fun, fruity twist on a classic treat. With their soft, pillowy texture and sweet raspberry flavor, they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a new treat for your next gathering, a unique homemade gift, or simply a fun weekend project, these marshmallows are sure to impress. Enjoy!