Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup musk mallow root powder
- 1 cup water
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp gelatin
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- Cooking spray
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Stand mixer
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine musk mallow root powder and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids and set aside the musk mallow root liquid.
2. In a large saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 1 cup of musk mallow root liquid. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves.
3. Increase heat to high and bring mixture to a boil. Insert a candy thermometer and continue to cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 240°F (soft ball stage).
4. While the sugar mixture is cooking, sprinkle gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water in the bowl of a stand mixer. Let sit for 5 minutes to soften.
5. Once the sugar mixture reaches 240°F, remove from heat and carefully pour it over the gelatin mixture. Using the whisk attachment, beat on low speed for 1 minute, then increase to high speed and beat for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture is thick and fluffy.
6. Add vanilla extract and beat for another minute.
7. Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and dust with powdered sugar.
8. Pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Let the marshmallows set at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
10. Once set, remove the marshmallows from the dish and cut into squares. Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Cook sugar mixture to 240°F (soft ball stage)
Serving size:
Makes 24 marshmallow squares
Nutritional information:
Calories: 150
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 45mg
Sugar: 34g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Musk mallow root powder can be substituted with marshmallow root powder or marshmallow extract.
- Corn syrup can be substituted with honey or agave nectar.
- Gelatin can be substituted with agar agar for a vegan option.
Variations:
- Add food coloring or flavor extracts to the marshmallow mixture for different colors and flavors.
- Dip the marshmallow squares in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the marshmallow mixture before pouring into the baking dish.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- Spray your spatula with cooking spray to prevent sticking when smoothing the marshmallow mixture in the baking dish.
- Dust your knife with powdered sugar before cutting the marshmallows to prevent sticking.
Storage instructions:
Store marshmallow squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
Marshmallow squares do not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange marshmallow squares on a platter and dust with powdered sugar. Serve with hot cocoa or coffee.
Garnishes:
Dust with additional powdered sugar or top with sprinkles or chopped nuts.
Pairings:
Serve with hot cocoa or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
Marshmallow squares can be served as a dessert on their own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the marshmallow mixture is too sticky, dust your hands with powdered sugar before handling.
- If the marshmallow mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of hot water and beat again.
Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot sugar syrup.
- Do not touch the candy thermometer to the bottom of the saucepan as this can give an inaccurate reading.
Food history:
Marshmallows have been around since ancient Egypt, where they were made from the sap of the marshmallow plant. Today, marshmallows are typically made with gelatin, sugar, and corn syrup.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet and fluffy with a hint of musk mallow root flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a sweet treat after dinner or as a snack with hot cocoa or coffee.
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Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Fluffy, Marshmallowy