Why You’ll Love Heart Marshmallows: Delightful Treat Recipe

They have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s far superior to packaged versions.
Fun to make and easy enough even for beginners.
The heart shapes make them ideal for holidays, gifts, or themed desserts.
You can flavor and color them any way you like.
They’re a unique and thoughtful homemade gift idea.
No preservatives — just fresh, real ingredients.
Kids and adults alike love making (and eating) them.
Great for topping hot cocoa, cupcakes, or enjoying on their own.
Long-lasting when stored correctly.
A fun way to get creative in the kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unflavored gelatin
Cool water
Granulated sugar
Light corn syrup
Salt
Vanilla extract
Powdered sugar

Directions

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, pour in the gelatin and half of the cool water. Let it sit to bloom while you make the syrup.
In a small saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and the remaining water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved, then increase the heat to bring it to a boil. Without stirring, let it boil rapidly for about 1 minute.
With the mixer on low speed, carefully pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin. Once combined, increase the speed to high and whip for 10 to 12 minutes until the mixture is very thick and forms stiff peaks. Add vanilla extract and mix briefly to combine.
Immediately transfer the marshmallow mixture to the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a greased spatula. Dust the top with a bit of powdered sugar.
Let the marshmallows rest, uncovered, at room temperature for at least 3 hours or overnight until fully set.
Once set, dust a surface with powdered sugar and carefully turn out the marshmallows. Use a greased heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes, dusting each with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 36 heart-shaped marshmallows
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 3 hours minimum (or overnight)
Total time: About 3 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Flavored marshmallows: Swap vanilla extract for peppermint, almond, or fruit-flavored extracts.
Colored marshmallows: Add food coloring during the mixing stage for festive colors.
Shaped marshmallows: Use different cookie cutters for stars, circles, flowers, or themed holidays.
Chocolate dipped: Dip finished marshmallows halfway in melted chocolate and let them set.
Sprinkles: Press decorative sprinkles on top before the marshmallows set.

Storage/Reheating

Store the marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature. Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Do not refrigerate or freeze, as they can become sticky or lose texture. Reheating is not necessary, but they can be gently warmed in a hot drink.

FAQs

What’s the texture of homemade marshmallows like?

They’re softer and more pillowy than store-bought, with a fresher taste and melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

Can I make these without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can use a hand mixer, but be prepared to mix for a longer time to achieve the right consistency.

How do I keep the marshmallows from sticking?

Dust all surfaces and cut pieces with powdered sugar to prevent stickiness.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes. Store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days for the best texture.

What if I don’t have corn syrup?

Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, so substitutions may affect the final texture, but golden syrup may work as a backup.

Can I add coloring or decorations?

Absolutely. Add food coloring during whipping or top with sprinkles before the marshmallows set.

How do I cut perfect heart shapes?

Use a metal cookie cutter coated in cooking spray or dipped in powdered sugar. Press firmly and clean the cutter between uses.

Can I use molds instead of a pan?

Yes. Silicone molds work well for shaping marshmallows individually, though it may be messier.

Are these marshmallows gluten-free?

Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check labels to be sure.

Can I make these vegan?

This recipe uses gelatin, which is not vegan. To make a vegan version, you would need to experiment with agar agar and adjust quantities and technique accordingly.

Conclusion

Homemade heart marshmallows are a whimsical and delicious treat that’s both fun to make and delightful to share. With their soft texture, customizable flavors, and charming shapes, they’re perfect for special occasions or adding a little sweetness to any day. Once you try making marshmallows from scratch, you’ll appreciate how simple and satisfying it really is.