Chef Mitchell preparing Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered the magic of Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes at a county fair. The vibrant colors and fluffy texture captivated me, sparking my desire to recreate them at home. After numerous experiments, I perfected the recipe to capture the essence of childhood memories in every bite. Sharing these delightful cubes brings me joy, knowing they can create new memories for others."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I have devoted my career to creating irresistible desserts. My passion for baking started in my grandmother's kitchen, where I learned the art of balancing flavors and textures. I’ve crafted over 1000 recipes, focusing on bringing comfort and delight to every dish.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes served on a plate

Why This Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because of its unique flavor and playful presentation. The combination of cotton candy flavor and the pillowy texture of marshmallows creates a delightful treat that appeals to all ages. The vibrant colors not only make them visually appealing but also enhance the overall experience.

The technique used ensures that the marshmallows turn out light and airy, avoiding the dense texture that can often occur. By allowing the mixture to set properly and using the right ratios of sugar and corn syrup, you achieve that perfect fluffy consistency.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, use high-quality cotton candy flavoring and food coloring. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures vibrant colors. Additionally, allow the marshmallows to set overnight for a firmer texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes can be made a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can also be left at room temperature, but avoid direct sunlight to maintain their texture.

If you don't have cotton candy flavoring, you can use other light, sweet flavors like bubblegum or vanilla. However, keep in mind that the unique taste of cotton candy will change, so the final product may differ slightly in flavor.

The marshmallows are done when they have set completely and feel firm to the touch. They should not be sticky and should hold their shape when cut. Typically, this takes about 4 hours at room temperature.

Yes, you can freeze Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes! Just ensure they are wrapped well in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature.

These marshmallow cubes are delightful on their own, but you can serve them alongside fresh fruit, whipped cream, or drizzle with chocolate sauce for an added treat. They also make a fun addition to a dessert charcuterie board.

When stored properly in an airtight container, Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes can last in the fridge for about a week. Be sure to keep them away from moisture to maintain their fluffy texture.

Yes, you can make Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes in advance. They are perfect for preparing ahead of time, especially for parties. Just remember to store them properly to keep them fresh and tasty.

While it's not common to reheat marshmallows, if they become hard, you can microwave them for a few seconds to soften. However, be careful not to overheat them, as they can melt and lose their shape.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the marshmallows are too dry, they may have set too long or were overcooked.

Solution: To remedy this, make a new batch and ensure you follow the timing carefully, checking for the right consistency before letting them set.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the marshmallows lack a crispy exterior, they may not have been dusted with enough powdered sugar and cornstarch.

Solution: Make sure to liberally dust the marshmallows with the sugar-cornstarch mixture immediately after cutting them.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked marshmallows can become hard and chewy.

Prevention: To prevent this, monitor the boiling temperature closely and use a candy thermometer to ensure you don’t exceed the correct temperature.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center is undercooked, the marshmallows may not hold their shape.

Recovery: Allow them to set longer at room temperature, ensuring they become firm throughout.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Burnt exterior indicates that the sugar mixture was cooked at too high a temperature.

Prevention: Always cook on medium heat and avoid boiling too rapidly, as this can cause burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the marshmallows are too sweet, consider reducing the sugar next time or using a hint of salt to balance the flavor.

Too Salty: To fix a salty flavor, try adding more sugar and a splash of water during the cooking process.

Bland: If they are bland, you can enhance the flavor by adding a bit more cotton candy flavoring next time.

Fresh ingredients for Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes

Essential Ingredients for Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes

The most crucial ingredient in this recipe is the gelatin, which provides the structure and fluffy texture of the marshmallows. The granulated sugar and corn syrup add sweetness and help achieve that perfect chewy consistency. The cotton candy flavoring is what makes these cubes uniquely delightful, reminiscent of childhood treats.

Using high-quality ingredients is vital for the best flavor and texture. Opt for pure vanilla extract and a well-regarded brand of cotton candy flavoring to enhance the taste. The powdered sugar and cornstarch should be fresh to ensure they provide the right coating for the marshmallows.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Gelatin: Ensure you use unflavored gelatin for the best results. Blooming it properly in cold water before adding it to the sugar mixture is essential for achieving a light and airy texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Using fine granulated sugar helps dissolve quickly and evenly in the mixture. Avoid using coarse sugar, which can result in a gritty texture.
  • Cotton Candy Flavoring: Invest in a good quality cotton candy flavoring. This ingredient is what gives your marshmallows that delightful and nostalgic taste, so selecting a reputable brand is key.
Cooking process for Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Creating Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes is a straightforward process that involves preparing a sugar syrup, blooming gelatin, and combining the two. It’s essential to follow the steps carefully, ensuring that the syrup reaches the correct temperature for achieving the ideal texture.

To get perfect results, be patient while your marshmallows set. Allowing them to rest ensures that they develop the right balance of fluffiness and structure, making them easy to cut and serve.

Key Technique for Perfect Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes

The secret to achieving the perfect Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes lies in the sugar syrup preparation. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely, aiming for a soft ball stage (around 240°F). This will ensure a fluffy and light marshmallow texture that melts in your mouth.

Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sugar
    Granulated
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
    For richness
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    Pure extract
  • Pinch of salt
    To balance flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
    Main sweetener
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
    For moisture and sweetness
  • 1/2 cup water
    To dissolve sugar
  • 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
    For structure
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    To enhance flavor
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
    Key flavoring
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
    For dusting
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
    For dusting
  • Food coloring (pink and blue)
    For color
  • Cooking spray
    To prevent sticking
  • Edible glitter (optional)
    For garnish
  • Cotton candy for garnish
    For topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Gelatin

    In a small bowl, mix the gelatin with 1/2 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.

  2. Make the Sugar Syrup

    In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and 1/2 cup of water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.

  3. Heat the Mixture

    Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.

  4. Add Gelatin

    Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved.

  5. Flavoring

    Add salt, vanilla extract, and cotton candy flavoring. Stir well to combine.

  6. Color the Mixture

    Divide the mixture into two bowls and color one pink and the other blue with food coloring.

  7. Prepare the Molds

    Spray a square baking dish with cooking spray and dust with a mixture of powdered sugar and cornstarch.

  8. Layer the Mixtures

    Pour the pink mixture into the dish, followed by the blue mixture. Use a spatula to smooth the top.

  9. Set the Marshmallows

    Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours or until set.

  10. Cut and Serve

    Once set, dust the top with more powdered sugar and cornstarch, cut into cubes, and serve garnished with cotton candy and edible glitter.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store Cotton Candy Marshmallow Cubes in an airtight container at room temperature. To prolong their freshness, avoid exposing them to moisture. If stored correctly, they can last up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

These marshmallow cubes are best served at room temperature. Pair them with fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, or even serve them as a topping for ice cream to elevate your dessert experience.

Recipe Variations

For a fun twist, you can add different flavorings, such as strawberry or bubblegum, instead of cotton candy. You can also customize the shapes by using different molds for a more festive presentation.