Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

A tasty recipe for Candy Cane vegan marshmallows makes a delightful holiday treat or an exciting addition to your holiday cookie box! These fluffy, peppermint-flavored delights are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Their festive red swirls and airy texture will make them a favorite at any gathering, bringing joy to both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, creating these marshmallows is a breeze.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of peppermint extract and vibrant colors makes these treats perfect for the holiday season.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy them on their own, add them to hot chocolate, or use them in various desserts.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without animal products, these marshmallows cater to vegan diets while still being delicious.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different colors or flavors to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the fun of making Candy Cane vegan marshmallows, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure you enjoy making this treat.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool is essential for whipping the marshmallow mixture to achieve that light, fluffy consistency.
• Candy thermometer: A must-have for ensuring you reach the precise temperature needed for perfect marshmallow texture.
• Baking pan: Provides the right shape for your marshmallows, allowing them to set evenly.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Candy Cane vegan marshmallows:

• 1 ⅓ cups water (divided)
• 3 envelopes unflavored, powdered 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. This will prevent the marshmallows from sticking.

Step 2: Bloom the Vegan Gelatin

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

Step 3: Cook the Sugar Mixture

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Mixer

With the stand mixer on low speed:
1. Slowly pour the melted sugar mixture into the bloomed vegan gelatin mixture.
2. Add peppermint extract and kosher salt.

Step 5: Whip Until Stiff Peaks Form

Slowly increase the mixer speed to high:
1. Whip until stiff peaks form (about 10-12 minutes).
2. When you lift out the whisk, peaks should hold their shape briefly before collapsing back into the mixture.

Step 6: Add Color Swirls

While still warm:
1. Drizzle droplets of red food coloring on top of the whipped mixture.
2. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl through for decorative effects.

Step 7: Let Marshmallows Set

Allow your marshmallow mixture to sit at room temperature for at least four hours or refrigerate for two hours until firm.

Step 8: Cut Into Pieces

Dust your work surface with powdered sugar or cornstarch:
1. Use a butter knife to slice around edges of pan.
2. Turn out onto dusted surface—it may require some gentle prying at one corner.
3. Cut into at least sixteen pieces using a sharp knife sprayed with cooking spray if needed.

Step 9: Final Touches

Roll each piece in powdered sugar or cornstarch on all sides to prevent sticking before serving. Enjoy your homemade Candy Cane vegan marshmallows!

How to Serve Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

Candy Cane vegan marshmallows are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to elevate your dessert table or simply enjoy them as a snack, here are some serving suggestions.

Hot Chocolate Topping

• Add a few pieces of Candy Cane vegan marshmallows to your favorite hot chocolate for a festive twist. They melt beautifully and add a sweet peppermint flavor.

S’mores Delight

• Use the Candy Cane vegan marshmallows in place of regular marshmallows for an exciting s’mores experience. Roast them over the fire and sandwich between graham crackers and chocolate.

Gift Giving

• Package the Candy Cane vegan marshmallows in cute bags or jars as holiday gifts. Tie them up with ribbon for a personal touch that friends and family will love.

Ice Cream Topping

• Chop the marshmallows into smaller pieces and sprinkle them over vanilla or chocolate ice cream. It adds both texture and flavor to your dessert.

Cookie Sandwiches

• Create cookie sandwiches by placing two cookies around a piece of Candy Cane vegan marshmallow. This adds an unexpected chewy element to classic cookies.

How to Perfect Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

To ensure your Candy Cane vegan marshmallows turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Measure accurately: Use precise measurements for water, sugar, and other ingredients to achieve the right consistency.
• Use a candy thermometer: Ensuring the sugar mixture reaches exactly 240°F is vital for proper texture. A thermometer helps avoid guesswork.
• Whip thoroughly: Whipping the mixture long enough creates stiff peaks, essential for fluffy marshmallows. Don’t rush this step!
• Cool properly: Allow the marshmallows to set at room temperature or in the fridge as indicated in the recipe. This gives them time to firm up correctly.
• Prevent sticking: Dust surfaces with powdered sugar or cornstarch before cutting. This prevents the marshmallows from sticking together.

Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

Pairing side dishes with your Candy Cane vegan marshmallows can enhance your holiday spread. Consider these options for a delightful meal.

1. Peppermint Bark – A sweet treat made from dark chocolate layered with white chocolate and sprinkled with crushed candy canes.
2. Chocolate Fondue – Melted chocolate served with fruits, pretzels, and more, making it perfect for dipping those yummy marshmallows.
3. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that balances out the sweetness of the marshmallows.
4. Spiced Nuts – Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and sugar provide a crunchy complement to soft marshmallows.
5. Gingerbread Cookies – Classic holiday cookies that pair wonderfully with sweet treats like Candy Cane vegan marshmallows.
6. Pecan Pie Bites – Miniature pecan pies that offer a rich flavor contrast to light and airy marshmallow treats.
7. Apple Crisp – Warm baked apples topped with crispy oats; it makes for a cozy dessert next to your fluffy candies.
8. Vanilla Pudding Cups – Creamy pudding served in small cups allows guests to enjoy multiple textures alongside their marvellous sweets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Candy Cane vegan marshmallows can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common issues and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring the Blooming Process: Failing to let the vegan gelatin bloom can lead to a lumpy texture. Always allow it to sit in cold water for a few minutes before mixing.
• Overheating the Sugar Mixture: If the sugar mixture exceeds 240°F, it can become too hard. Use a reliable candy thermometer and keep an eye on the temperature.
• Not Whipping Enough: Insufficient whipping results in marshmallows that are too soft. Whip until stiff peaks form, which typically takes about 10-12 minutes.
• Skipping the Dusting Step: Not rolling the marshmallows in powdered sugar or cornstarch can cause them to stick together. Make sure to dust each piece thoroughly before serving.
• Cutting with a Dull Knife: A dull knife can squish your marshmallows instead of cutting them cleanly. Use a sharp knife and consider spraying it with cooking spray for easier cutting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Ensure that each piece is dusted with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking.

Freezing Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months; just ensure they are well-dusted.

Reheating Candy Cane vegan marshmallows

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F, place marshmallows on a baking sheet for softening if needed.
• Microwave: Heat for 5-10 seconds at a time until slightly softened; be cautious not to melt them.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until they reach desired softness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Candy Cane vegan marshmallows.

Can I use different flavors for my vegan marshmallows?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various extracts like vanilla, almond, or even orange for unique flavors.

How do I ensure my Candy Cane vegan marshmallows are fluffy?

The key is in whipping the mixture until stiff peaks form. Don’t rush this step!

Can I customize the color of my Candy Cane vegan marshmallows?

Yes! You can adjust the amount of food coloring based on your preference or use natural colorants like beet juice.

What can I do if my mixture isn’t thickening?

Ensure that you’ve whipped it long enough and check that your sugar mixture reached the correct temperature before combining.

How long do these Candy Cane vegan marshmallows last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they last up to one week at room temperature and three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Candy Cane vegan marshmallows are a delightful treat that adds festive cheer to any holiday gathering. With their fluffy texture and minty flavor, they’re perfect as gifts or party snacks. Plus, you can easily customize them with different colors and flavors. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating these sweet delights!