If you’ve ever wished to enjoy the fluffy, sweet delight of marshmallows without using gelatin or animal products, then you’re in for a treat! Our veg marshmallow recipe is a fantastic plant-based alternative that’s just as soft, airy, and delicious as traditional marshmallows.
Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone with dietary restrictions, these marshmallows are made from simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find in your kitchen. Whether you want to add them to hot cocoa, roast them over a campfire, or use them in your favorite desserts, these vegan marshmallows will quickly become a household favorite.
Making marshmallows from scratch might seem intimidating, but this recipe breaks down every step to help you create perfect marshmallows with a smooth texture and subtle sweetness. Plus, it’s a fun and rewarding cooking project that brings a little magic to your kitchen.
Ready to whip up some fluffy vegan marshmallows? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This veg marshmallow recipe is not only vegan-friendly but also free from artificial additives and unhealthy preservatives found in many store-bought brands. Using natural plant-based gelling agents like agar-agar or carrageenan, these marshmallows achieve that iconic chewy texture without compromising on taste or quality.
They are gluten-free, soy-free, and perfect for allergy-sensitive households. Plus, making your own marshmallows means you can customize the flavors—think vanilla, rose, or even a hint of citrus!
This recipe is versatile and forgiving, ideal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Not to mention, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests or surprise your family with homemade treats that are as fun as they are tasty. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a batch and enjoy a sweet snack that aligns with your values and lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water, divided (for soaking and syrup)
- 1 1/2 cups organic cane sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup (or agave syrup for a natural alternative)
- 2 tbsp agar-agar powder (vegetarian gelling agent)
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar (helps stabilize the mixture)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (for flavor)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Powdered sugar or cornstarch mixture (for dusting)
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Candy thermometer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- 9×9 inch square pan (or similar size)
- Sifter or fine mesh sieve
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Instructions
- Prepare your pan: Line the 9×9 inch pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly dust the surface with a mixture of powdered sugar and cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Soak agar-agar: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the water with the agar-agar powder. Let it soak for about 10 minutes while you prepare the syrup.
- Make the sugar syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 1/2 cup water, sugar, and corn syrup. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and clip on your candy thermometer.
- Cook the syrup: Let the syrup boil without stirring until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage). This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat immediately.
- Cook the agar-agar: Transfer the soaked agar-agar to a saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Continue boiling for about 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
- Combine agar-agar and syrup: Slowly pour the hot agar-agar mixture into the hot sugar syrup while stirring gently to combine.
- Mix and whip: Transfer the combined hot liquid to a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat on high speed for about 10-12 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and fluffy. Add cream of tartar, vanilla extract, and salt halfway through whipping.
- Pour and set: Quickly pour the fluffy mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Dust the top with the powdered sugar-cornstarch mix.
- Let it set: Allow the marshmallows to set at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.
- Cut and store: Once set, use a sharp knife dusted with powdered sugar to cut into squares. Toss the pieces in more powdered sugar to keep them from sticking. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Tips & Variations
For best results, use organic ingredients whenever possible and avoid stirring the sugar syrup while boiling to prevent crystallization.
- Flavor twists: Add natural extracts like peppermint, almond, or citrus zest during the whipping stage for unique marshmallow flavors.
- Colorful treats: Incorporate natural food coloring or beet juice to give your marshmallows fun, vibrant hues.
- Chocolate-dipped: Dip your marshmallows in melted vegan chocolate for an indulgent dessert.
- Storage advice: Keep marshmallows in a cool, dry place to avoid melting or sticking together.
- Alternative gelling agents: If you can’t find agar-agar, try using carrageenan powder, but adjust the quantity as it’s more potent.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 marshmallow approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 45 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 12 g |
Sugar | 11 g |
Fat | 0 g |
Protein | 0 g |
Fiber | 0 g |
Sodium | 5 mg |
Serving Suggestions
These vegan marshmallows are incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ideas to enjoy them:
- Stir into a warm cup of hot chocolate or vegan coffee for a cozy treat.
- Roast on a skewer over a campfire or stovetop flame for classic s’mores.
- Layer in vegan rice crispy treats or other no-bake desserts.
- Add to fruit salads or vegan parfaits for a sweet texture contrast.
- Use as a topping on vegan cakes and cupcakes to impress your guests.
Conclusion
Crafting your own veg marshmallows at home is a delightful and rewarding experience. Not only do you get to enjoy fluffy, sweet treats that align with your plant-based lifestyle, but you also gain control over the ingredients, ensuring a clean and wholesome snack for you and your loved ones.
This recipe is simple enough for beginners while offering plenty of room for creative flavor experiments and customizations.
Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion, a cozy night in, or just craving a sweet bite, these vegan marshmallows deliver on taste and texture. Don’t forget to check out other wonderful vegan recipes like Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious, Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas, and Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to complement your plant-based culinary journey.
Happy cooking and enjoy your homemade vegan marshmallows!
📖 Recipe Card: Veg Marshmallow Recipe
Description: A simple and delicious vegetarian marshmallow recipe using plant-based gelatin. Perfect for a sweet treat or topping desserts.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 20 marshmallows
Ingredients
- 1 cup water, divided
- 3 tablespoons agar-agar powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
- 1/2 cup cornstarch, for dusting
Instructions
- Combine 1/2 cup water and agar-agar powder in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, stirring continuously for 5 minutes.
- In another pan, mix sugar, corn syrup, salt, and remaining 1/2 cup water.
- Heat sugar mixture until it reaches 240°F (115°C).
- Slowly pour sugar syrup into agar-agar mixture while whisking.
- Continue whisking until mixture thickens and becomes fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Pour mixture into a greased pan dusted with powdered sugar and cornstarch.
- Let set at room temperature for 4 hours.
- Cut into squares and dust with remaining powdered sugar and cornstarch.
Nutrition: Calories: 90 | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0g | Carbs: 23g
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