Classic marshmallows are a beloved treat, evoking nostalgia and perfect for everything from s’mores to hot chocolate, or even more creative kitchen uses. This healthy marshmallow recipe lets you indulge in the sweetness without derailing your diet. It’s an ideal option for anyone seeking a better-for-you alternative to traditional marshmallows, made with simple, naturally gluten-free ingredients.
Why Choose a Healthy Marshmallow Recipe?
Conventional marshmallows are filled with sugar, chemicals and bad stuff! They taste good but make you feel lazy after consumption. On the flip side, this healthy marshmallow recipe is made with natural sweeteners and healthier fats and wholesome ingredients so you can get the satisfaction of a sweet treat without the repercussions. If you’re dieting or if you just crave a more wholesome snack, this one’s for you.
The Ingredients for a Healthy Marshmallow
Healthier marshmallows are super easy to make, and only require a couple of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Gelatin: An essential component in promoting the fluffy texture marshmallows are known for. You can use grass-fed gelatin if you want a healthier alternative.
- Natural Sweetener: Rather than sugar, sweeten your marshmallows naturally with honey or maple syrup.
- Vanilla Extract: It’s flavorsome and makes the marshmallows taste better.
- Coconut Oil – a good fat to help make the marshmallows smooth.
- A Pinch of Salt: For keeping the too much sweet in check and for that extra burst of flavors.
Rather, they are a healthier alternative than the processed sugar and chemicals used in conventional marshmallows.
Steps to Make Healthy Marshmallows
It’s easy to do at home, with just a few ingredients and a little time, you can make healthy marshmallows at home. Read on for the simple recipe for fluffy, no-corn-syrup marshmallows.
Bloom the Gelatin:
Begin by blooming your gelatin. Place gelatin in a small bowl; add cold water. Let it sit and “bloom” for about 5 minutes, taking a moment to absorb the water and activate.
Heat the Sweetener:
Add your natural sweetener (honey or maple syrup) and a pinch of salt to a small saucepan. Simmer it over medium heat, stirring from time to time until it smoothes and thickens slightly. Do not bring it to a boil.
Combine Gelatin and Sweetener:
Remove the sweetener from the heat after it has thickened. Stir in the bloomed gelatin in with the sweetener and mix til completely dissolved.
Add Coconut Oil and Vanilla and Whisk:
Add in the coconut oil and vanilla extract in with it and mix well. The coconut oil will make it creamy, while the vanilla will amp up the sweetness.
Whisk to Create Fluff:
Pour the mixture into a bowl. Beat with a hand mixer on high speed for around 10 minutes. The filling will be very thick and make stiff peaks, much like whipped cream.
Pour into Mold:
When the mixture is light and fluffy and retains its shape, tip into a baking pan or mold lined with baking parchment. Use a spatula to flatten the top into an even layer.
Set the Marshmallows:
Allow the marshmallows to set at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or you can refrigerate the marshmallows overnight for the best results. Cut into squares after they are set.
Tips for Perfect Healthy Marshmallows
Healthy marshmallows are an easier homemade treat, however, getting the texture and flavor just right does require attention to detail. Here are a few tips that will help you to make the best ever healthy marshmallows:
Quality gelatin:
The quality of your marshmallows are going to rely heavily on the quality of your gelatin. Opt for premium, grass-fed gelatin – it works best of all. This gelatin produces a firmer, more bouncy product than regular.
Bloom the Gelatin as Directed:
Don’t skip this step, bloom your gelatin in cold water and allow it to sit for several minutes. This way the gelatin has completely activated, which results in a better set and a softer texture for your marshmallows.
Whisk Well:
Once you heat your sweetener and add the gelatin, be sure to whisk everything thoroughly. Use a hand mixer and beat until stiff peaks form. And this is really important, so that the product turns to light and aired marshmallows.
Let the Mixture to Cool:
Before Pouring If the mixture is too warm it can prevent the congealing process from occurring. You can let the mix cool for a few minutes before pouring into your mold/pan, this helps it set up better.
Give Them Enough Time to Set:
Patience is a virtue. Let your marshmallows set for at least 2-3 hours, or even overnight if you have the time. This will help them set fully so they’re easier to cut and eat.
Coat to Prevent Stickiness:
In a liquid that is slightly cooled and set, you will be able to remove your marshmallows and cover them with a powder (powdered coconut or arrowroot powder). That will keep them from clumping and will give them a polished look.
Use these tips and you will be able to make the perfect healthy batch of marshmallows!
Pros of Healthy Marshmallow Recipe
Here are a few benefits to choosing a healthy marshmallow recipe. First, it means you’re consuming fewer refined sugars. Natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup have a lower glycemic index, which means they will spike blood sugar less. Second, by using coconut oil as a fat source you will be including healthy fats which can be easy on your body. Gelatin, another ingredient, features lots of collagen — which is good for your skin, your hair and your joints.
And this isn’t one of those recipes that are laden with artificial colors and flavors that you’ve been fearing you’d find. These marshmallows are also incredibly versatile and can be used in many other delightful ways, from snack treats to hot chocolate topping.
Healthy Marshmallow Substitutes and Variations
If you want to add some extra personality to your healthy marshmallow recipe, there are a few different ways to customize the ingredients. Here are some ideas:
Vegan Marshmallows:
If you’re vegan, use agar-agar, which is a vegan alternative of gelatin. It causes fruit to jello very much as does granulated gelatin, except that it is derived from seaweed and is of plant origin. Also, substitute maple syrup (or agave nectar) for the honey.
Chocolate Marshmallows:
Add cocoa powder to the mixture for those who is in love with chocolate. You can also dip the squares in dark chocolate once they have hardened, which is SUPER GOOD!
Cinnamon Marshmallows:
Whisk in a teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the mixture before frying. This will impart your marshmallows with a warm, spiced flavor perfect for cooler months.
Fruit-Flavored Marshmallows:
To add a fruity twist, try mixing fruit puree into the mixture before it chills. Strawberry, raspberry or lemon are good choices for imparting a fresh, tartness to your marshmallows.
Storing Your Healthy Marshmallows
How to store healthy marshmallows Keep your homemade marshmallows fresh by keeping them in airtight container/s. They ought to keep for a week, at room temperature. If you’d like to prolong their shelf life a bit, you can now refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you’ve made a bunch, freezing these is another good move. The only thing is, be super sure to layer them between parchment paper, otherwise they stick.
Why This Recipe Is SO Much Better Than Store-Bought Marshmallows
Classic store-bought marshmallows are filled with artificial sweeteners, preservatives and food coloring. In small amounts, these substances may not be harmful, but over time they can add up and present health problems. On the other hand, homemade healthy marshmallows are made with real food you can feel good about. You know exactly what you’re putting in them, so you can be sure they are not just delicious but also healthful.
Sneaking Healthy Marshmallows Into Your Diet
The best thing about making your own healthy marshmallows is that you can use them in other recipes. You could stir them into hot cocoa, swirl them into yogurt, or sprinkle them on oatmeal. They also make a great snack on their own, meeting a craving for something sweet without tons of added sugars.
If you love s’mores, healthy marshmallows make an adorable, fun, and tasty addition to your camping or backyard bonfire tradition. Match them with whole grain crackers and dark chocolate for the best kind of indulgence there is.
Conclusion
Now, even those of us who prefer to live really healthful lifestyles can still have this old childhood favorite recipe so we can stay healthy and happy. High quality ingredients! With the use of healthful ingredients such as all natural sweeteners, coconut oil and gelatin, you can enjoy this classic treat without the added unhealthy stuff or refined sugars. And, thanks to lots of variation potential, you can prepare these marshmallows just the way you like them and according to your diet. Try your hand at this recipe and see how simple it can be to enjoy marshmallows in a better-for-you way!
FAQs
Is there a healthier marshmallow?
Healthy homemade marshmallows utilize premium, grass-fed gelatin and honey or maple syrup rather than corn syrup. They are paleo-friendly, gluten-free, and corn-free. This confection is ideal for any time of year or for the holidays.
Are marshmallows considered healthy?
Since marshmallows are mostly composed of sugar and lack important nutrients, they are not usually linked to any notable health advantages. They can, however, be employed in some dietary circumstances where rapid energy is required or consumed in moderation as a treat.
What are sugar-free marshmallows made of?
Aspartame and sucralose are two examples of artificial sweeteners included in many sugar-free marshmallows. Maltitol, which can raise blood sugar, is used by others. But this recipe calls for water, gelatin, natural keto sweeteners, and a tiny bit of vanilla essence.