Homemade Marshmallows

Notes:  These are so easy to make and such a treat.  There are no eggs, but tons of sugar.  You do need a candy thermoter for this recipe. Also, one time, I couldn't find regular light corn syrup, only the one with vanilla.  If this happens to you, use the corn syrup with vanilla and omit the extra vanilla at the end.

Ingredients:

• 3 packages unflavored gelatin
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Directions:

1. Mix the gelatin and 1/2 cup of cold water in the bowl of a standing electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment and allow to sit while you make the syrup.
2. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Raise the heat to high and cook until the syrup reaches 240 degrees F on a candy thermometer. Yes you really need a candy thermometer. Remove from the heat. The part really needs to be done by a parent because the sugar will really cause a bad burn if it gets on your skin. Be careful.
3. With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour the sugar syrup into the dissolved gelatin. Put the mixer on high speed and whip until the mixture is very thick, about 15 minutes. Add the vanilla and mix thoroughly. The mixture gets really really fluffy and white. The kids will love to watch this happen.
4. Prepare a 8’” x 12” non-metal pan by spraying a little bit of non-stick spray on the bottom and sides. Dust confectioners’ sugar into the pan coating the sides and bottom well. Spread the marshmallow mixture evenly into the pay and let stand uncovered over night to dry out a bit.
5. Cut the marshmallows into squares and roll all sides in confectioners’ sugar and put on a platter. Store uncovered for up to 1 week (if they last)

These are great in hot chocolate! Although my kids eat them right off the plate.  Try the variations below to customize your marshmallow.

Variations:

1. Put 2 parts graham crackers and 1 part semi sweet coco powder in the food processor and reduce to dust.
2. Put Candy Canes in the food processor and reduce them to dust. Mix 2 parts candy cane dust with 1 part confectioners’ sugar.
3. Mix equal parts coco powder with confectioner sugar