Go Back
Marshmallows Without Corn Syrup Recipe

Homemade Marshmallows Without Corn Syrup

Fluffy, sweet, and naturally delicious — these homemade marshmallows are made without corn syrup and use simple pantry ingredients like honey or maple syrup. Perfect for hot chocolate, s’mores, or snacking, this recipe is allergy-friendly, corn-free, and easy enough for beginners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 25
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 35

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients:
  • 3 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
  • ½ cup cold water to bloom gelatin
  • 1 cup honey or maple syrup
  • ¼ cup water for the syrup
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For Dusting:
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch

Equipment

  • Stand mixer or hand mixer
  • Candy thermometer
  • Medium saucepan
  • Rubber spatula
  • 8x8-inch baking dish or silicone mold
  • Parchment paper
  • Sifter or fine mesh strainer
  • Sharp knife or kitchen scissors

Method
 

  1. Bloom the Gelatin: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 3 tbsp gelatin with ½ cup cold water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to bloom.
  2. Cook the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup honey (or maple syrup), ¼ cup water, and ¼ tsp salt. Heat over medium heat. Clip a candy thermometer to the side and cook until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) (soft-ball stage). Do not stir.
  3. Whip the Mixture: Start the mixer on low speed, and carefully pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin in a slow, steady stream. Increase to high speed and whip for 8–12 minutes, until thick, glossy, and tripled in volume.
  4. Add Vanilla: In the final minute of whipping, add 1 tsp vanilla extract.
  5. Pour and Set: Quickly pour the marshmallow mixture into a parchment-lined and lightly greased 8x8-inch pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Let set at room temperature for 4–6 hours (or overnight).
  6. Cut and Dust: In a bowl, mix powdered sugar and arrowroot powder. Remove marshmallows from the pan, cut into cubes using a greased knife or scissors, and toss each piece in the dusting mix to prevent sticking.
    Marshmallows Without Corn Syrup Recipe

Notes

  • Sweetener Options: Honey creates a slightly firmer, floral marshmallow; maple syrup is softer and has a richer taste.
  • For Vegan Version: Replace gelatin with agar-agar powder (follow package directions), but note the texture will be firmer and less fluffy.
  • Flavor Ideas: Try peppermint, almond, or lemon extract instead of vanilla for a fun twist.
  • Storage: Keep marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Avoid refrigerating.
  • Marshmallows Without Corn Syrup Recipe