Looking to whip up something fun, sweet, and cloud-soft? This Cotton Candy Marshmallows recipe will take you back to childhood carnivals with just one bite. They’re airy, flavorful, and easy to make at home with simple ingredients. Whether you’re prepping for a party, creating edible gifts, or just indulging your inner kid, these marshmallows will not disappoint.
Learn more about dreamy dessert ideas in our Cotton Candy Frosting recipe if you’re planning a full-themed treat board!
Ingredients
- ¾ cup (180 ml) cold water, divided
- 3 envelopes (7g each) unflavored HALAL gelatin
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) light corn syrup
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp cotton candy flavoring
- Gel food coloring (pink, blue, or your choice)
- ½ cup (65g) powdered sugar
- ¼ cup (30g) cornstarch
- Cooking spray or neutral oil
Instructions
1. Prep the Pan
Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Grease it lightly with oil or non-stick spray.
2. Bloom the Gelatin
In a stand mixer bowl, sprinkle gelatin over ½ cup cold water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until bloomed and spongy.
3. Make Sugar Syrup
In a saucepan, mix the sugar, corn syrup, salt, and remaining ¼ cup water. Heat gently until sugar dissolves. Raise heat and boil until it hits 240°F on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage).
4. Whip the Fluff
Carefully pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin while the mixer is on low. Gradually increase to high speed and whip 10–12 minutes until thick, glossy, and lukewarm.
5. Flavor & Color
Add cotton candy flavoring and a few drops of your chosen gel food coloring. Mix until well combined.
6. Spread and Set
Pour the mixture into your prepped pan. Use a greased spatula to smooth the surface. Let it set at room temp for 6–8 hours or overnight.
7. Cut and Coat
Mix powdered sugar and cornstarch in a bowl. Dust your counter with the mix. Remove marshmallow from the pan, dust the top, and cut into squares or shapes. Toss in sugar-cornstarch coating.
Expert Tips for Success
Use a Candy Thermometer
This ensures perfect texture—no sticky mess or chewy flops.
Flavor Variations
Try mixing in vanilla, strawberry, or bubblegum flavoring for fun.
Want Color Swirls?
Split the mixture and add different gel colors before combining for a tie-dye effect.
Dust Generously
If you skip the sugar/cornstarch mix, the marshmallows will stick together.
Serving Suggestions
- Add to hot cocoa for a carnival twist
- Top cupcakes or cakes
- Skewer for fun party treats
- Pair with popcorn for a sweet-salty combo
Check out our Bubblegum Cloud Slices for another pastel-perfect sweet idea.
Storage Tips
- Store in airtight containers at room temp
- Keep away from heat and moisture
- Dust again if marshmallows stick
- Freeze for long-term storage (up to 3 months)
- Let frozen marshmallows thaw at room temp before serving
Don’t miss our whimsical Cotton Candy Cloud Bites if you’re in the mood for more fluffy fun.
Conclusion
These cotton candy marshmallows are a fantastic way to bring a splash of sweetness and nostalgia to your kitchen. Light, colorful, and full of fun flavor, they’re the perfect treat for parties, gifts, or snacking. Try a batch today, and float on a cloud of sugary delight!
Looking for inspiration? Try our playful Cotton Candy Cookies or the dreamy Light Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake** for your next sweet session.