Candy Cane Marshmallows

Name: Candy Cane Marshmallows
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 marshmallows
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup light corn syrup; 1/2 cup water; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large egg whites; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup crushed candy canes

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Sweeten up your holiday season with these delightful Candy Cane Marshmallows! Perfectly fluffy and infused with the festive flavors of peppermint, these homemade treats are a wonderful addition to hot cocoa or as a charming gift for friends and family. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re sure to become a Christmas favorite.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-11-17T04:22:28.816Z

Candy Cane Marshmallows bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. Made with love and infused with the taste of peppermint, they are perfect for sharing and enjoying during the festive season.

A Festive Treat for Everyone

Candy Cane Marshmallows are not just delicious; they're also versatile. Their sweet, minty flavor pairs perfectly with hot chocolate, making them an ideal topping for your favorite winter beverages. You can also mix them into desserts or use them as a delightful addition to holiday gift baskets. These marshmallows are an easy way to spread holiday cheer among family and friends, ensuring everyone can indulge in a little sweetness during the festive season.

Making these homemade marshmallows is a fun activity for the whole family. Involve your children in the process, from pouring ingredients to decorating with crushed candy canes. It’s an opportunity to create lasting memories while enjoying the spirit of togetherness. Plus, your kids will love showing off their kitchen creations!

Perfectly Fluffy and Irresistible

The key to achieving perfectly fluffy Marshmallows lies in the whipping process. Be sure to whip the egg whites until soft peaks form, which helps incorporate air and give the marshmallows their light texture. Once you incorporate the hot syrup, the mixture will transform into a thick, glossy treat that’s perfect for cutting into squares. This transformation is magical, a treat for both the eyes and taste buds!

Don’t shy away from experimenting! While the basic recipe is delightful on its own, consider adding various flavors or colorful sprinkles to make them even more festive. Try out different extracts or garnish options to customize your Candy Cane Marshmallows, ensuring they will be a hit at any holiday gathering.

Storage and Shelf Life

After making your Candy Cane Marshmallows, it's essential to store them properly to maintain their delightful texture. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent them from becoming too sticky or hard. If stored correctly, these marshmallows can last for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the holiday season.

If you have any leftovers, consider dipping half of the marshmallows in chocolate for an extra indulgent treat. Once cooled, they can be packaged beautifully to give as gifts, ensuring you share the sweetness of the holidays with those you love. After all, what better way to show you care than with homemade goodies?

Ingredients

For the Marshmallows

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup water
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large egg whites
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup crushed candy canes

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting!

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil and let it cook without stirring until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage).

Whip the Egg Whites

While the sugar syrup is cooking, beat the egg whites in a large bowl until soft peaks form. Once the syrup reaches the right temperature, carefully pour it into the whipped egg whites while mixing on medium speed.

Add Flavor and Form

After pouring in the syrup, add the peppermint extract and continue to whip until the mixture is thick and fluffy, about 10 minutes. Pour the marshmallow mixture into a greased 9x13 inch pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and crushed candy canes.

Let it Set

Allow the marshmallow to set at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight. Once set, cut them into squares and coat with more powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Candy Cane Marshmallows!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Candy Cane Marshmallows turn out perfectly, use a candy thermometer to monitor the syrup temperature closely. Reaching the right temperature (240°F) is crucial for achieving the desired consistency. Additionally, if you're in a humid environment, consider adjusting the cooking time to avoid excess moisture in your marshmallows.

Prepare your pan with a generous amount of greased parchment paper. This makes it easier to remove the marshmallows once they set and helps in cutting them into neat squares. A little prep goes a long way in achieving beautiful results!

Nutrition Highlights

These homemade Candy Cane Marshmallows are a treat best enjoyed in moderation, especially during the festive season. While they are high in sugar, they offer a gluten-free dessert option for those with dietary restrictions. Each fluffy bite offers a delightful sweetness that can satisfy any sweet tooth.

Incorporating peppermint extract not only provides wonderful flavor but can also have some health benefits, such as aiding digestion. So why not add a little cheer to your holiday festivities with these tasty marshmallows while keeping nutrition in mind?

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I store these marshmallows?

Yes, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

→ Can I use a different flavor instead of peppermint?

Absolutely! You can substitute the peppermint extract with vanilla or any other flavor you prefer.