Use this vegan marshmallow recipe for light, fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth 'mallows. Roast them for s'mores, enjoy with hot chocolate or savor the sweets on their own.
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Curious about homemade marshmallows? Don’t be intimidated! We’ll show you how to make vegan marshmallows with this simple step-by-step recipe. All you need is a handful of ingredients and a little patience.
(P.S. Don’t forget these vegan marshmallows for your next camping trip! Pair them with coconut granola, fruit salad and more vegan camping food.)
First: Are Marshmallows Vegan?
No, most store-bought marshmallows contain gelatin, which gives them that ooey-gooey consistency. Unfortunately, since it’s derived from animal protein, vegans (and vegetarians) should avoid it. Here are other foods you should avoid as a vegan.
Thankfully, more brands are releasing plant-based products. You can now find vegan marshmallows at Trader Joe’s or a bag of Dandies on Amazon.
How Do You Make Marshmallows Without Gelatin?
Use agar powder!It’s a gluten-free, non-GMO, Kosher and vegan substitute derived from marine red algae. Agar powder can be used in place of gelatin in a 1:1 ratio. You can find it on Amazon.
Jenna Urben for Taste of Home
How to Make Vegan Marshmallows
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons vegan butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, divided
- 3 tablespoons agar powder
- 1 cup cold water, divided
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the pan and mixer
Line an 8×8 pan with foil and grease with vegan butter. Using half of the powdered sugar, dust the pan and set aside. Then, in the bowl of a stand mixer, sprinkle agar powder over 1/2 cup water. Gently mix with the whisk attachment until dissolved, then set aside.
Step 2: Combine the ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine remaining water with sugar, corn syrup and salt. Bring to a rapid boil without stirring until a candy thermometer reads 240° F.
Step 3: Transfer to stand mixer
Remove the mixture from heat and carefully add it to the stand mixer. Beat on high speed until mixture is thick, about 10-15 minutes. Mix in peppermint extract, if using.
Step 4: Let set overnight
Immediately transfer to the prepared pan and let sit uncovered for at least 12 hours. Once the tops are completely dried out, place in refrigerator for 1 hour.
Step 5: Cut and coat the marshmallows
Lift the marshmallows out of the pan and cut ’em with a knife. Coat each marshmallow with remaining powdered sugar.
Step 6: Store the marshmallows
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to eat. Enjoy with dairy-free hot cocoa or make some unique homemade s’mores. See the vegan chocolate bars we’re recommending for that treat!
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