Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering! These homemade treats are fluffy, festive, and incredibly delicious. Perfect for gifting, adding to hot cocoa, or enjoying as a sweet snack, these marshmallows are sure to impress friends and family. With their vibrant red swirls and minty flavor, they capture the essence of the season and create a joyful atmosphere. Let’s dive into the world of marshmallows and learn how to make this delightful treat!

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows

There are countless reasons to adore these peppermint marshmallows. First, they are visually stunning, making them a centerpiece at any dessert table. Second, their minty flavor is refreshing and perfect for the holiday season. Third, they are incredibly easy to make at home, requiring just a few simple ingredients and steps. Fourth, they are versatile; enjoy them on their own, in hot cocoa, or even as part of peppermint marshmallow dessert ideas. Fifth, they make wonderful swirled peppermint treats to gift to friends and family. Lastly, they offer a fun cooking experience that the whole family can enjoy. These marshmallows are not only delicious but also a great way to create lasting memories together!

Ingredients for Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows

Gather these items:

1 cup powdered sugar, divided
⅔ cup water, divided
3 packages (¼ ounce each) unflavored gelatin
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
pinch of kosher salt
2 teaspoons pure peppermint extract
10 drops red food coloring

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows Step-by-Step

Step 1: Lightly spray the inside of an 8”x8” pan with non-stick cooking spray. Sprinkle with ½ cup of the powdered sugar and tilt the pan until there is a thick coating of powdered sugar on the bottom and sides of the pan. Gently shake out any loose powdered sugar and discard. Set the pan aside.
Step 2: Pour 1/3 cup of the water into the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle the gelatin over the water and stir briefly to incorporate and soften. Let stand for about 10 minutes, or until the gelatin has softened.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan, off the heat, combine the remaining 1/3 cup of the water with the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Clip a candy thermometer on the inside of the pan, making sure it doesn’t touch the bottom. Cook the mixture without stirring until it reaches 240°F.
Step 4: With the mixer on low speed, very slowly and carefully add the hot syrup to the softened gelatin. Increase mixer speed to high. The mixture will start out clear, then quickly turn very white. Beat for about 7 minutes, or until the marshmallow gets very thick and sticky, and starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl, in string-like pieces.
Step 5: Add peppermint extract and beat for 2 more minutes.
Step 6: With the mixer stopped, add red food coloring in random drops over the top of the marshmallow mixture. On very low speed, give the marshmallow just 1 to 2 turns with the mixer blade, until you see swirls of red and white. Do not over mix, or you will lose the red streaks and end up with all-pink marshmallow.
Step 7: Spread the swirled marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan using a lightly oiled spatula. With wet hands, press the batter evenly into the corners of the pan. Just keep rewetting your hands to help with the stickiness. Set aside for at least 1 hour, or until the mixture is firm and cool.
Step 8: Sift some powdered sugar into a shallow bowl. Run a wet knife around the edge of the cooled pan to loosen the marshmallow. Remove the marshmallow from the pan onto a cutting board or parchment paper. Cut into squares using a pizza cutter wheel. Toss each marshmallow in the remaining powdered sugar until completely coated.
Step 9: Store marshmallows in a single layer, or in layers separated by wax paper. They will keep very well for quite a long time (a couple of weeks!) when stored airtight at moderate temperature. They also keep well in the freezer. Eat plain, dipped in chocolate, or in hot chocolate!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows

Keep these in mind:

Store in an airtight container for longer freshness.
Cut marshmallows into desired sizes for different treats.
Rewet hands to avoid stickiness while handling the marshmallow mixture.
For an extra touch, dip the marshmallows in chocolate for a delightful chocolate-covered peppermint marshmallows treat!

Best Ways to Serve Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows

There are many delightful ways to enjoy your homemade marshmallows. First, they make a wonderful addition to hot chocolate, creating the best peppermint marshmallows for hot chocolate. Second, they can be used in baking as a fun ingredient in desserts. Lastly, consider giving them as a gift; Peppermint swirl marshmallows gift ideas include decorative jars or festive packaging that adds a personal touch.

Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows: 9 Festive Treats to Try - Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows

To maintain their freshness, store your marshmallows in a single layer or in layers separated by wax paper. They should be kept in an airtight container at a moderate temperature, and they can also be frozen for longer shelf life. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying them again!

Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows

What’s the secret to perfect Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows?

The key to achieving the perfect peppermint marshmallows lies in the proper whipping of the mixture. Ensure to follow the instructions closely and watch for the consistency to be thick and sticky.

Can I make Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows ahead of time?

Yes! These homemade peppermint swirl marshmallows can be made a few days in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to overmix the marshmallow once the food coloring is added, as this will diminish the swirls. Also, be cautious with the temperature of your syrup—it should reach exactly 240°F for the best results.

Variations of Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows You Can Try

For those wanting to switch things up, here are some ideas! You can create vegan peppermint swirl marshmallows by substituting gelatin with agar-agar. Another variation is to make chocolate-covered peppermint marshmallows for an indulgent treat. Lastly, consider mixing in crushed peppermint candies for an extra crunch and minty flavor!

For more festive ideas, check out our holiday recipes and learn how to make delicious desserts that everyone will love!