If you love fluffy treats and nostalgic carnival flavors, you’re going to fall in love with these Cotton Candy Marshmallows! These homemade marshmallows are soft, airy, and bursting with that sweet cotton candy flavor, complete with dreamy pastel swirls of pink and blue.
Perfect for party favors, baby showers, Easter baskets, or just an afternoon treat — this no-bake dessert is easier than you think and tastes way better than store-bought marshmallows!
🎡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No Corn Syrup Needed – You can make this with or without it!
Fluffy & Fun – Soft, pillowy marshmallows that melt in your mouth.
Perfect for Events – Gorgeous pastel colors make them great for gifting.
Customizable – Switch up the colors or flavors for themed treats.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Marshmallows:
3 packages (about 7.5 tsp) unflavored gelatin
1 cup cold water, divided
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup (or golden syrup)
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp cotton candy flavoring
Pink and blue gel food coloring
For Dusting:
½ cup powdered sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
🧰 Equipment
Stand mixer or hand mixer
Candy thermometer
9×9 inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Sifter or fine mesh strainer
Silicone spatula
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line a 9×9 inch pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease it and dust with a mix of powdered sugar and cornstarch to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Bloom the Gelatin
In the bowl of your stand mixer, add ½ cup cold water and sprinkle gelatin over the top. Let it sit and bloom while you prepare the syrup.
Step 3: Make the Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining ½ cup water, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Then, without stirring, increase heat to medium-high and cook until the mixture reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Step 4: Whip It Up
Carefully pour the hot syrup into the gelatin while mixing on low speed. Increase to high speed and beat for 10–12 minutes, until thick, glossy, and tripled in volume. It should form soft peaks.
Step 5: Add Flavor and Color
Add cotton candy flavoring and beat just until combined. Divide the mixture into two bowls. Add pink gel coloring to one and blue to the other. Gently swirl them together in the pan to create a dreamy, marbled look.
Step 6: Let It Set
Smooth the top with a greased spatula. Dust with more powdered sugar mixture. Let the marshmallows sit uncovered at room temperature for 6–8 hours or overnight.
Step 7: Cut and Coat
Once set, lift the marshmallows from the pan and cut into squares with a greased, sharp knife. Toss the pieces in the remaining powdered sugar mixture to coat all sides.
💡 Pro Tips for Success
Don’t Overheat the Syrup: Remove from heat promptly at 240°F for the best texture.
Use Gel Coloring Only: Liquid coloring can mess with the marshmallow consistency.
For Vegan Version: Use agar-agar powder and vegan gelatin substitute (note: texture will vary).
Store Correctly: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for up to 1 week. No need to refrigerate!
🍬 Serving Ideas
Serve with hot chocolate for a whimsical twist ☕
Use them in s’mores for a colorful surprise
Wrap in cellophane bags for party favors
Top cakes or cupcakes with marshmallow cubes
Pack in lunchboxes for a sweet midday treat
📦 Storage Tips
Room Temp: Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
Freezer: You can freeze marshmallows, but it may affect the texture. If you do, use parchment between layers and thaw at room temperature.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without corn syrup?
Yes! You can use golden syrup or honey, though the flavor and texture may slightly change.
Can I use flavored gelatin instead?
No — flavored gelatin contains sugar and coloring that will alter the texture. Stick with unflavored gelatin and add your own flavoring.
Can I use liquid food coloring?
It’s not recommended. Gel food coloring gives vibrant colors without affecting texture.
Why is my marshmallow mixture not whipping up?
Make sure the syrup reached 240°F. Undercooking will prevent the right consistency from forming.
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🎉 Final Thoughts
These Cotton Candy Marshmallows are a pastel dream come true — fluffy, fun, and full of sweet carnival nostalgia. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying a homemade treat, they’re sure to be a hit!
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