Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

Candy Cane vegan marshmallows are a delightful holiday treat that can elevate your dessert table or cookie box. These fluffy and festive sweets are perfect for sharing with family and friends during celebrations. With a refreshing peppermint flavor and a charming appearance, they are sure to impress everyone. Plus, making these vegan marshmallows allows you to indulge without compromising on dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the marshmallow-making process, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Customizable Flavor: You can adjust the peppermint extract to suit your taste or explore other flavors.
• Fun for All Occasions: Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as gifts, these marshmallows add a festive touch.
• Vegan-Friendly: Crafted without any animal products, these marshmallows cater to various dietary choices.
• Kid-Approved: Kids love the sweet taste and fun texture, making them a hit in any household.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Candy Cane vegan marshmallows, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment helps ensure success in your candy-making adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Medium saucepan
• Candy thermometer
• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Spatula
• Butter knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Provides the necessary power to whip the mixture to stiff peaks without much effort.
• Candy thermometer: Ensures accurate temperature readings for sugar syrup, crucial for achieving the right consistency.
• Baking pan: A sturdy pan is vital for setting the marshmallow mixture evenly.

Ingredients

To make these irresistible Candy Cane vegan marshmallows, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 ⅓ cups water (divided)
• 3 envelopes unflavored, powdered Vegan vegan gelatin (about 7 ½ teaspoons)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1-2 teaspoons red food coloring
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar or cornstarch (for rolling)

How to Make Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Bloom the Vegan Gelatin

In the bowl of your stand mixer, add ⅔ cup cold water. Sprinkle the Vegan vegan gelatin on top and let it bloom for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Sugar Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat:
1. Combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and remaining ⅔ cup water.
2. Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
3. Bring to a boil while swirling occasionally until reaching exactly 240°F on a candy thermometer (about 10-12 minutes). Remove from heat immediately.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

With the stand mixer on low speed:
1. Carefully pour the hot sugar mixture into the bloomed Vegan vegan gelatin mixture.
2. Add peppermint extract and salt.

Step 5: Whip Until Stiff Peaks Form

Slowly increase speed to high to avoid splashes:
1. Whip until stiff peaks form (about 10-12 minutes).
2. The mixture should be glossy and white.

Step 6: Add Color Swirls

While the mixture is still warm:
1. Add droplets of red food coloring on top.
2. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl colors throughout the mixture.

Step 7: Set Your Marshmallows

Let them sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours or refrigerate for about 2 hours until firm.

Step 8: Cut and Dust

Dust your work surface with powdered sugar or cornstarch:
1. Slice around edges of the pan with a butter knife.
2. Turn out onto your surface; cut into at least 16 pieces using a sharp knife sprayed with cooking spray if needed.
3. Roll each piece in powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Now your Candy Cane vegan marshmallows are ready! Enjoy them as they are or use them in festive drinks or desserts!

How to Serve Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

Serving Candy Cane vegan marshmallows can elevate any holiday gathering. These fluffy treats are not only delightful on their own but can also complement a variety of festive dishes and drinks.

Hot Chocolate Delight

• Top your favorite hot chocolate with a few pieces of Candy Cane vegan marshmallows for an extra touch of sweetness and a minty flavor.

S’mores Twist

• Use Candy Cane vegan marshmallows in place of regular marshmallows for a fun twist on classic s’mores. Layer them between graham crackers and chocolate.

Holiday Gift Bags

• Package these marshmallows in decorative bags as gifts for friends and family. They make for a thoughtful and tasty present!

Dessert Platter Addition

• Arrange Candy Cane vegan marshmallows on a dessert platter alongside other holiday treats like cookies or brownies for an appealing display.

Marshmallow Pops

• Skewer the marshmallows onto sticks and dip them in melted chocolate for a festive treat that’s perfect for parties.

Ice Cream Topping

• Chop up the marshmallows and sprinkle them over scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for added flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

Making the perfect Candy Cane vegan marshmallows requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your marshmallows turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure that your powdered sugar, corn syrup, and peppermint extract are fresh for the best flavor.
• Monitor temperature closely: Use a candy thermometer to accurately measure the temperature of the sugar mixture, aiming for exactly 240°F.
• Whip thoroughly: Make sure to whip the mixture until it forms stiff peaks, which creates that airy texture typical of marshmallows.
• Don’t rush cooling: Allow the marshmallows to sit undisturbed at room temperature or in the refrigerator until they are fully set.
• Dust generously: Coat your work surface with enough powdered sugar or cornstarch before cutting to avoid sticking.
• Experiment with colors: Feel free to adjust the amount of red food coloring or even use different colors to match various occasions.

Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

Pairing side dishes with Candy Cane vegan marshmallows can enhance their appeal. Consider these delightful options that complement their sweetness perfectly.

1. Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spices in gingerbread provide a perfect contrast to the cool mint flavor of the marshmallows.
2. Peppermint Bark: This chocolatey treat pairs well with the minty notes, creating a festive flavor combination.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness and offers a light counterpart to heavier desserts.
4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone, which contrast beautifully with sweet treats.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of fruit and other treats into warm chocolate fondue alongside your marshmallows for an interactive dessert experience.
6. Spiced Nuts: The savory crunch of spiced nuts provides a satisfying texture that complements sweet flavors nicely.
7. Berry Compote: A tart berry compote can cut through the sweetness, adding depth to your dessert spread.
8. Cinnamon Rolls: Warm cinnamon rolls offer comfort that pairs wonderfully with the coolness of Candy Cane vegan marshmallows.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Candy Cane vegan marshmallows can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Gelatin Preparation: Ensure you allow the Vegan vegan gelatin to bloom properly in cold water before mixing. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
• Overheating Sugar Mixture: Monitor the sugar mixture closely to avoid burning. Use a candy thermometer and remove it from heat as soon as it reaches 240°F.
• Not Whipping Long Enough: Whip the mixture until stiff peaks form. This is key for fluffy marshmallows; under-whipping can lead to a runny texture.
• Skipping Food Coloring Swirl: Don’t miss adding food coloring! Swirling it during the warm stage creates the festive candy cane effect that makes these marshmallows special.
• Improper Dusting: Use enough powdered sugar or cornstarch when rolling your marshmallows. This prevents sticking and ensures an easy serving experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Candy Cane vegan marshmallows in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

• Place marshmallows in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 200°F and place marshmallows on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for about 10-15 seconds at a time, checking frequently to avoid melting completely.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a small pot over low heat, stirring constantly until they soften.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Candy Cane vegan marshmallows.

How do I make Candy Cane vegan marshmallows?

To make Candy Cane vegan marshmallows, you’ll need Vegan vegan gelatin, sugar, corn syrup, peppermint extract, and food coloring. Follow the recipe instructions carefully for best results.

Can I customize my Candy Cane vegan marshmallows?

Absolutely! You can add different extracts like vanilla or almond or use various colors of food coloring for unique designs.

What can I use instead of powdered sugar?

You can use cornstarch or a combination of both powdered sugar and cornstarch to dust your Candy Cane vegan marshmallows.

How long do Candy Cane vegan marshmallows last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

Candy Cane vegan marshmallows are a fun and festive treat perfect for any holiday gathering. Their light and fluffy texture combined with peppermint flavor makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different flavors or colors to suit your taste!