vegan marshmellow recipe Vegan Marshmallow Recipe Easy to Make and Delicious

Updated On: October 4, 2025

If you’ve ever craved the fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of marshmallows but wanted a vegan-friendly alternative, look no further! Traditional marshmallows rely heavily on gelatin, which is animal-derived.

But the good news is, you can make your own delicious vegan marshmallows right at home with simple, plant-based ingredients. These soft, sweet treats are perfect for roasting over a campfire, blending into hot cocoa, or simply enjoying as a snack.

Plus, they’re free from any animal products, making them suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and those with gelatin allergies alike.

This recipe combines the magic of aquafaba (the liquid from cooked chickpeas) with natural sweeteners and a touch of vanilla to create a perfectly airy and bouncy marshmallow. Not only is it a fun kitchen project, but it’s also a healthier, customizable alternative to store-bought options.

Ready to whip up your batch? Let’s dive into this vegan marshmallow recipe that will impress everyone at your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan marshmallow recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses aquafaba, a surprising but brilliant substitute for egg whites or gelatin that whips up into a stable, fluffy foam.

This means you get the classic marshmallow texture without any animal products.

Second, it’s naturally sweetened with organic cane sugar and maple syrup, giving a subtle, rich flavor that’s more wholesome than artificial alternatives. The vanilla extract adds a lovely, comforting aroma that enhances each bite.

Lastly, it’s incredibly versatile! You can shape these marshmallows into traditional squares or fun shapes, toast them, or add them to your favorite desserts.

They’re gluten-free, soy-free, and perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas)
  • 1 cup organic cane sugar
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup or maple syrup for a natural alternative
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch (for dusting)

Equipment

  • Stand mixer or hand mixer with whisk attachment
  • Medium saucepan
  • Candy thermometer (essential for precise temperature)
  • Baking pan (8×8 inch recommended)
  • Parchment paper to line the pan
  • Sifter or fine mesh sieve for dusting
  • Rubber spatula

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking pan: Line the 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Mix the powdered sugar and cornstarch in a small bowl and dust the lined pan generously to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the sugar syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the cane sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), and water. Place over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Attach a candy thermometer and boil without stirring until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C), the soft ball stage.
  3. Whip the aquafaba: While the syrup is heating, pour the aquafaba into a large mixing bowl and add the cream of tartar. Using the stand mixer or hand mixer, whisk on high speed until stiff peaks form. This can take about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Combine syrup and aquafaba: Once the syrup hits 240°F, carefully and slowly pour it in a thin stream into the whipped aquafaba while the mixer is running on medium speed. Be cautious as the syrup is very hot.
  5. Whip until fluffy: Increase the mixer speed to high and continue whipping for another 10-12 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, shiny, and slightly cooled. Add the vanilla extract in the last minute of whipping.
  6. Set the marshmallow: Immediately pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Dust the top with more powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture.
  7. Allow to rest: Let the marshmallows set at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps them firm up to the perfect texture.
  8. Cut and serve: Once set, lift the marshmallow slab out of the pan using the parchment paper. Dust a knife with the sugar-cornstarch mix and cut into squares or desired shapes. Toss each marshmallow in the dusting mix to prevent sticking.

Tips & Variations

“For best results, use chilled aquafaba straight from the fridge and ensure your sugar syrup reaches the exact temperature. This precision is key to achieving the perfect fluffy texture.”

  • Flavor twists: Add peppermint, almond, or citrus extracts instead of vanilla for fun variations.
  • Chocolate-dipped marshmallows: Dip the finished marshmallows in melted vegan chocolate for an indulgent treat.
  • Colorful marshmallows: Add a few drops of natural food coloring during the last few minutes of whipping.
  • Storage: Store marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • Use aquafaba from home-cooked chickpeas: If you prefer homemade aquafaba, cook dried chickpeas and reserve the liquid, then chill before use.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 marshmallow approx.)
Calories 40 kcal
Carbohydrates 10 g
Sugars 8 g
Fat 0 g
Protein 0.2 g
Fiber 0 g
Sodium 5 mg

Serving Suggestions

Vegan marshmallows can elevate many treats! Try adding them to your favorite hot chocolate for a creamy, sweet topping that melts delightfully.

You can also roast them over a fire or use them in a vegan s’mores recipe with dairy-free chocolate and graham crackers.

For a fun dessert, layer them in vegan rocky road bars or mix into vegan rice crispy treats. They also make a lovely addition to holiday recipes and gifting, wrapped in cellophane tied with a pretty ribbon.

Explore more delicious vegan recipes like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious, Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes, or the Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for more plant-based inspiration.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan marshmallows at home is not only a rewarding culinary adventure, but it also ensures you know exactly what goes into your treats—no hidden gelatin or questionable additives! This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence, providing fluffy, sweet marshmallows that rival any store-bought version.

With just a few pantry staples like aquafaba, sugar, and vanilla, you can whip up a batch of these delightful confections to enjoy anytime. Whether you’re vegan, allergic to gelatin, or simply curious about plant-based alternatives, these marshmallows are a must-try.

So gather your ingredients and equipment, and treat yourself to the magic of homemade vegan marshmallows!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Marshmallow Recipe

Description: Fluffy and sweet vegan marshmallows made without gelatin. Perfect for roasting or adding to hot chocolate.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 20 marshmallows

Ingredients

  • 1 cup aquafaba (chickpea brine)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Combine aquafaba and cream of tartar in a mixing bowl.
  2. Whip aquafaba until stiff peaks form.
  3. In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 1/2 cup water; heat to 240°F (115°C).
  4. Slowly pour hot syrup into whipped aquafaba while mixing at high speed.
  5. Add vanilla extract and continue whipping until mixture is thick and glossy.
  6. Dust a pan with powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture.
  7. Pour marshmallow mixture into the pan and smooth the top.
  8. Let set at room temperature for at least 4 hours.
  9. Cut into squares and toss in the powdered sugar-cornstarch mixture.

Nutrition: Calories: 90 | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0g | Carbs: 23g

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Marta K

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