Chocolate Marshmallows Recipe

Fluffy Homemade Chocolate Marshmallows Recipe: Sweet Joy in Every Bite

Sweet dreams come true with these delectable homemade chocolate marshmallows that melt in your mouth.

Crafting these pillowy treats requires simple ingredients and a dash of patience.

Soft, rich chocolate infuses each fluffy bite with decadent flavor.

Professional pastry chefs and home bakers alike adore this delightful confection.

The silky texture combined with deep cocoa notes creates an irresistible marshmallow experience.

chocolate lovers will swoon over these melt-in-your-mouth delights that elevate any dessert or hot beverage.

Prepare to indulge in a sweet adventure that promises pure bliss.

Steps for Chocolate Marshmallow Treats

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Grab an 8-inch square pan and lovingly coat the entire inside with butter.

Sprinkle a magical mixture of confectioner’s sugar and cocoa powder, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Activate Gelatin Magic

Pour water into your stand mixer bowl and sprinkle gelatin over the surface.

Let this mixture sit and transform for 10 minutes, allowing the gelatin to bloom and become soft and dreamy.

Step 3: Create Chocolate Base

In a separate bowl, whisk cocoa powder with hot water until it becomes silky smooth.

Add a splash of vanilla extract and a hint of coffee to deepen the rich chocolate flavor.

This will create an incredible flavor foundation for your marshmallows.

Step 4: Cook Sugar Syrup

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and water.

Heat the mixture slowly, watching it carefully until it reaches 255°F on a candy thermometer.

Instead of stirring, gently swirl the pan to ensure even heating.

This technique helps create a perfect sugar syrup without crystallization.

Step 5: Combine Gelatin and Sugar Syrup

Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the bloomed gelatin while mixing on low speed.

Gradually increase the speed and whip the mixture for 12-15 minutes until it becomes thick, glossy, and forms stiff peaks.

Step 6: Pour and Set Marshmallows

Quickly transfer the fluffy marshmallow mixture into your prepared pan.

Smooth the top with a spatula and let it sit at room temperature for 4-6 hours or overnight until completely set.

Step 7: Cut and Dust Marshmallows

Once set, dust a cutting board with the remaining sugar-cocoa mixture.

Turn out the marshmallow block and cut into squares using a sharp knife.

Coat each marshmallow in the sugar-cocoa mixture to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Store and Enjoy

Store your homemade chocolate marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature.

They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week – if they last that long!

Tips for Chocolate Marshmallow Success

  • Dust pan with cocoa-sugar mixture after buttering to prevent sticking and add extra chocolate flavor to marshmallows.
  • Use cold water when blooming gelatin to ensure smooth, lump-free texture and optimal gelatin activation.
  • Use a digital candy thermometer for accurate sugar syrup temperature, critical for marshmallow consistency.
  • Add instant espresso powder to enhance chocolate depth and create more complex marshmallow taste.
  • Let marshmallows set at room temperature for even texture and prevent potential crystallization.

Marshmallow Variations for More Fun

  • Gluten-Free Chocolate Marshmallows: Replace corn syrup with honey or maple syrup for a naturally gluten-free version that's safe for sensitive individuals.
  • Vegan Chocolate Marshmallows: Substitute gelatin with agar-agar powder and use plant-based sweeteners like agave nectar to create a completely animal-product-free treat.
  • Low-Sugar Chocolate Marshmallows: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of traditional sugar, reducing overall calorie and sugar content while maintaining rich chocolate flavor.
  • Nutty Chocolate Marshmallows: Incorporate ground almonds or cocoa nibs into the dusting mixture for added texture and depth of chocolate experience.

Serving Chocolate Marshmallows

  • Decadent Dessert Companion: Serve these chocolate marshmallows alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa for ultimate comfort.
  • Sweet Chocolate Dipping Station: Create a fun platter with fresh strawberries, banana slices, and graham crackers for interactive marshmallow dipping.
  • Gourmet Gift Packaging: Wrap individual marshmallows in clear cellophane with a ribbon, perfect for homemade edible presents that look professionally crafted.
  • Rocky Road Topping Magic: Crumble these marshmallows over chocolate ice cream or brownies to add a rich, luxurious texture and intense chocolate flavor.

Storing Chocolate Marshmallows Well

  • Store marshmallows in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper. Keep them chilled for up to 1 week to maintain their soft, fluffy texture.
  • If serving within 2-3 days, place marshmallows in a sealed container at room temperature. Ensure the space is cool and dry to prevent stickiness.
  • Wrap individual marshmallows tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for long-term preservation.
  • Dust marshmallows with extra cocoa powder and confectioner's sugar mixture before storing. This helps prevent them from clumping together and maintains their delicate chocolate coating.

FAQs

  • How do I know when the sugar syrup is ready?

Use a candy thermometer and cook until it reaches exactly 255°F (hard-ball stage). The syrup will look thick and amber-colored when properly heated.

  • Can I make these marshmallows without a stand mixer?

It’s challenging. A stand mixer helps whip the mixture to the right consistency and incorporates air needed for fluffy marshmallows. Hand mixers might work but won’t be as effective.

  • Why add coffee to the cocoa mixture?

Coffee enhances chocolate flavor, making the marshmallows taste richer and more complex without overwhelming the chocolate taste. It’s a secret ingredient that deepens the overall flavor profile.

  • What's the purpose of mixing confectioner's sugar and cocoa powder for dusting?

This mixture prevents marshmallows from sticking together and adds an extra layer of chocolate flavor when coating.

Chocolate Marshmallows Fun Flavor Combo

  • Whip Up Decadent Delight: Chocolate marshmallows offer a rich, indulgent twist on classic marshmallow treats that chocolate lovers will absolutely adore.
  • Craft Gourmet Confection: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a professional-level dessert that feels like a luxurious homemade experience, perfect for impressing friends and family.
  • Master Impressive Technique: Learning to make marshmallows from scratch provides a satisfying culinary skill that elevates your baking repertoire and boosts kitchen confidence.
  • Create Versatile Treat: These chocolate marshmallows work beautifully in hot cocoa, as cake decorations, or enjoyed straight from the pan, making them an incredibly adaptable sweet treat.

What’s Needed for Chocolate Marshmallows

Main Ingredients:
  • Cocoa Powder: A rich, deep chocolate ingredient that provides the signature chocolate flavor in these marshmallows.
  • Sugar: The primary sweetening agent that creates structure and sweetness for the marshmallows.
  • Gelatin: The key binding ingredient that gives marshmallows their signature soft and pillowy texture.
Liquid Ingredients:
  • Water, Hot Water, Corn Syrup: Essential liquids that help dissolve sugar, bloom gelatin, and create the marshmallow base.
  • Vanilla Extract, Coffee: Flavor enhancers that deepen the chocolate taste and add complexity to the marshmallows.
Preparation Ingredients:
  • Butter: Used to grease the pan and prevent sticking.
  • Confectioner's Sugar, Cocoa Powder: A dusting mixture that prevents marshmallows from being sticky and adds extra chocolate flavor.
  • Salt: A small but crucial ingredient that balances and enhances the overall sweetness of the marshmallows.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Chocolate Marshmallows Recipe

Chocolate Marshmallows Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet chocolate magic unfolds in these homemade chocolate marshmallows, melting hearts with rich cocoa goodness. Pillowy squares promise indulgent comfort, inviting you to savor pure chocolate bliss in every dreamy bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 1/4 cups white sugar
  • 27 grams (9 teaspoons) gelatin powder
  • 1/3 cup corn syrup

Chocolate and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup Dutch cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Liquid Components:

  • 1/2 cup water for gelatin
  • 1/3 cup boiling water
  • 1/4 cup water for syrup
  • 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare a square baking dish by generously coating the interior with butter, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
  2. Dust the buttered pan with a mixture of confectioner’s sugar and cocoa powder, creating a fine, even layer that will help release the marshmallows later.
  3. In a stand mixer bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water, allowing it to hydrate and bloom for approximately 10 minutes until it becomes spongy and absorbs the liquid.
  4. Create a rich cocoa base by whisking cocoa powder with hot water until completely smooth and free of lumps, then incorporate vanilla extract and brewed coffee for depth of flavor.
  5. Attach a candy thermometer to a heavy-bottomed saucepan and combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and water, heating the mixture without stirring until it reaches exactly 255°F (hard-ball stage).
  6. Gently swirl the pan to ensure even heat distribution and prevent sugar crystallization, monitoring the temperature carefully to achieve the perfect consistency.
  7. Carefully pour the molten sugar syrup into the bloomed gelatin, turning the mixer on low to combine, then gradually increase speed to high and whip for 12-15 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and forms stiff peaks.
  8. Quickly transfer the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the surface.
  9. Allow marshmallows to set at room temperature for 4-6 hours or overnight until completely firm and stable.
  10. Once set, cut into squares using a sharp knife dusted with the remaining cocoa-sugar mixture, separating and coating each marshmallow to prevent sticking.

Notes

  • Dust the pan generously with cocoa-sugar mixture to prevent sticking and add extra chocolate flavor.
  • Use a candy thermometer for precise sugar temperature to ensure perfect marshmallow texture.
  • Cold-brew coffee can replace instant coffee for deeper, more complex chocolate taste.
  • For gluten-free version, verify corn syrup and vanilla extract are certified gluten-free.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 142
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 1 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star