Homemade chocolate marshmallows are a delightful treat that combines the fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of traditional marshmallows with the rich and decadent flavor of chocolate. Making these delectable delights at home allows you to customize the intensity of the chocolate flavor and experiment with various toppings and coatings, making them a perfect indulgence for any chocolate lover.
To embark on the journey of creating your own batch of homemade marshmallows, you’ll need a few key ingredients: gelatin, sugar, water, corn syrup, honey OR maple syrup, salt, and, of course, high-quality cocoa powder. The process may seem a bit intimidating at first, but the end result is well worth the effort.
For homemade marshmallows, the addition of maple syrup brings a unique sweetness that sets these treats apart. You can use honey, but I prefer the maple syrup flavor.
Tips for making your own marshmallows:
1. Room Temperature Ingredients:
- Ensuring your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the gelatin, allows for a smoother incorporation into the hot sugar syrup. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture in your marshmallow mixture.
2. Whisk Attachment Magic:
- Using the whisk attachment of your stand mixer, beat the marshmallow mixture at a low speed. This attachment creates aeration, resulting in a fluffier and lighter texture. Watch as the mixture transforms into a cloud-like confection.
3. Hot Chocolate Companionship:
- Picture this: a cozy winter evening, a steaming mug of hot chocolate, and a couple of chocolate marshmallows melting into the rich cocoa. These marshmallows are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite hot beverage, adding a delightful sweetness and a hint of maple goodness.
4. Milk Chocolate Infusion:
- For a decadent twist, consider incorporating milk chocolate into your marshmallow mixture. Melt it into the hot sugar syrup for a luscious and creamy addition. The marriage of maple and milk chocolate creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
5. Vanilla Extract Enhancement:
- Elevate the vanilla notes in your marshmallows by using real vanilla beans or a high-quality vanilla extract. This small addition enhances the overall flavor, making each bite a truly indulgent experience.
6. Cocoa Paste Intensity:
- Experiment with cocoa paste for an intensified chocolate flavor. This concentrated form of cocoa can be found in the baking aisle of your local grocery store and adds a depth that regular cocoa powder might not achieve.
7. Coconut Oil Coating:
- When preparing your pan, try using coconut oil or a cooking spray with coconut oil for a subtle tropical hint. This addition complements the maple syrup and chocolate, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
8. Creative Toppings:
- Explore the baking aisle for inspiration. Crushed tree nuts, chocolate chips, or a dusting of dark cocoa powder can add texture and visual appeal. You might even consider a sprinkle of golden syrup for an extra layer of sweetness.
9. Seasonal Variations:
- Tailor your marshmallow recipes to the time of year. Peppermint extract or a swirl of mint chocolate can transform your homemade marshmallows into a seasonal delight, perfect for winter holidays.
10. Presentation Matters:
- Package your creations in cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon for a charming gift. Share the joy of homemade marshmallows with friends and family, or keep them on hand for cozy nights by the fire.
11. Storage Tips:
- Store your chocolate marshmallows in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Whether enjoying them on their own or as a delightful addition to your favorite ice cream flavor, proper storage ensures a longer shelf life.
Incorporating these tips and variations into your original recipe will elevate your maple syrup marshmallows to a whole new level. Experiment, have fun, and savor the delicious results of your homemade confectionery masterpiece.
Of course you can use these marshmallows to then make s’mores with graham crackers and even more chocolate. You can add some fruit for these strawberry s’mores, too! These would make a nice addition to a dessert charcuterie board or in a cup of hot cocoa, made with cocoa powder mix. Another great idea is elevating the chocolate flavor by making chocolate-dipped marshmallows.
Get more long charcuterie board ideas.
Homemade chocolate marshmallows are a labor of love that rewards you with a confectionery masterpiece. Making these with the family can be so much fun! From the boiling process to the final touch of creative toppings, the process is as enjoyable as the end result. Share these delightful treats with friends and family or savor them as a personal indulgence – either way, you’re in for a chocolatey experience like no other.
If the first time does not turn out the way you had envisioned, keep trying. This chocolate marshmallow recipe will not disappoint!
Chocolate Marshmallows
These fun, delicious homemade marshmallows are a chocolate delight!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold water, divided
- 2 ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, divided
- 6 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 4 tablespoons honey OR maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 teaspoons unflavored gelatin powder
- Topping:
- ½ cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Add 1/2 cup water, sugar, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, corn syrup, honey OR maple syrup, and salt to a saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir and bring to a rolling boil.
- Using a candy thermometer, bring the mixture to 240°f or softball. Do not stir the mixture.
- While the mixture boils, cut parchment paper to line a deep 8 x 12 dish. Grease the dish.
- Add the gelatin to the remaining water and mix. Set aside to allow the gelatin to bloom. Once bloomed, microwave the gelatin for 30 seconds.
- Once the marshmallow reaches softball, pour it into a mixing bowl and let it cool to 210°.
- Pour the liquid gelatin into the marshmallow, and whisk at low speed, gradually increasing the speed until whipped into soft peaks.
- Pour the whipped marshmallow into the greased dish, add the chocolate chips on top, and let sit to solidify.
- Once solid, remove the marshmallow from the dish by lifting the parchment out and cut into 1-2” strips. Then cut those strips into 1-2” cubes. Clean the knife between cuts for a smooth slice.
- Toss the cubes in the remaining cocoa powder and enjoy!
Recommended Products
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Paula
Thursday 25th of January 2024
This chocolate marshmallows recipe is an absolute delight for any chocolate lover! The balance of sweetness and the satisfying chewiness of the marshmallows, combined with the richness of the chocolate chips, creates a truly irresistible treat.