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Marshmallow

17/11/2023

Marshmallows, or gumdrop candies, are a sweet delicacy that can also be prepared at home. Here is how to make them.

Ingredients

  • 200 ml of water (divided into two 100 ml parts)
  • 30 g of unflavored powdered gelatin
  • 200 g of granulated sugar
  • 100 g of corn syrup (glucose)
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (or another flavor of choice)
  • Powdered sugar or cornstarch for dusting

Preparation

  1. In a large bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over 100 ml of water to hydrate it.
  2. In a saucepan, mix the remaining 100 ml of water, granulated sugar, and corn syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
  3. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat and allow the mixture to boil without stirring, until it reaches 115-120 °C (it is advisable to use a kitchen thermometer). This stage is called “soft-ball” in the sugar cooking process.
  4. Remove from heat and gently pour the hot sugar mixture over the hydrated gelatine, taking care to do it slowly and avoid splashing the sugar.
  5. With an electric mixer, start whisking at low speed, gradually increasing to maximum power. Continue to whip until the mixture becomes thick, white, and foamy. This might take about 8-10 minutes.
  6. Add the pinch of salt and the vanilla extract during the last minutes of whipping.
  7. When the marshmallow is whipped and shiny, pour the mixture into a previously oiled and powdered sugar or cornstarch-dusted rectangular pan. Level the surface with an oiled spatula.
  8. Allow the mixture to set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight.
  9. Dust the surface with additional powdered sugar or cornstarch, then cut the marshmallows into the desired shape with an oiled knife or cookie cutters.
  10. Roll each piece in further powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent them from sticking to each other.

Curiosity

In the 19th century, marshmallows were made using the extract of the Althaea officinalis plant, also known as marshmallow, which grows in wet areas. Today, we have replaced this ingredient with gelatin for a perfect consistency and a more readily achievable homemade preparation.