Welcome, fellow food enthusiast! If you’ve ever had a soft spot for marshmallows, you’re about to embark on a culinary adventure that will take your sweet tooth to new heights. Imagine biting into a treat that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside—sounds divine, right? Today, I’m thrilled to share this Deep Fried Marshmallows recipe, a delightful fusion of nostalgia and decadence. Trust me, this easy-to-follow recipe will become a favorite in your dessert repertoire, offering a playful twist on a classic campfire treat.

Why You’ll Love This Deep Fried Marshmallows Recipe

There’s a whimsical allure to this recipe that takes you back to childhood campouts and bonfire nights. But this isn’t just a nostalgia trip—the deep frying elevates the humble marshmallow into a luxurious dessert experience. The beauty of these deep fried marshmallows lies in their texture: a light, crispy coating encases a molten melty center, creating an irresistible contrast. Plus, with simple, accessible ingredients, you can create a dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family without spending all day in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Deep Fried Marshmallows

To create this magical treat, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:

1. 20 large marshmallows (frozen)
2. ⅔ cup whole milk
3. 1 large egg (room temperature)
4. ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
5. 1⅓ cups buttermilk pancake mix (Pearl Milling Company brand used)
6. Canola oil for frying (enough to fill 3-4 inches deep in a 5-quart Dutch oven or to the fill line of an electric deep fryer)

Optional toppings:

1. Sifted powdered sugar
2. Whipped cream
3. Chocolate sauce
4. Rainbow jimmie sprinkles

Necessary Tools

Before diving into this sweet adventure, gather these essential kitchen tools:

1. A large rimmed baking sheet
2. Paper towels
3. A wire rack
4. A large heavy-duty pot or an electric deep fryer
5. A candy thermometer (if using a pot)
6. A small mixing bowl
7. A large mixing bowl
8. A whisk
9. A large slotted spoon

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility to adapt to your taste preferences and dietary needs. If you’re looking to add a unique flavor twist, consider incorporating a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter. To accommodate dietary restrictions, you could substitute almond milk or a dairy-free alternative for whole milk, and use any preferred brand of gluten-free pancake mix.

For an adult twist, infuse the batter with a touch of almond or coconut extract, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur. You could also try different toppings like crushed nuts or shaved coconut to create additional layers of flavor.

How to Make Deep Fried Marshmallows

Step 1: Prep the Marshmallows

Place the marshmallows in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before starting the recipe. Freezing them ensures they stay firm during frying, preventing a melty mess.

Step 2: Prepare the Frying Station

Line a baking sheet with paper towels and a wire rack. Set aside. Pour enough canola oil into your pot or fryer, filling it 3-4 inches deep. Heat the oil to 375°F, using a candy thermometer to monitor. This step ensures your marshmallows fry to golden perfection.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a small bowl, whisk together the whole milk, egg, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. In a large bowl, add the buttermilk pancake mix and create a well in the center. Pour the milk mixture into the well and gently whisk until combined. Keep the batter slightly lumpy for the perfect coating texture.

Step 4: Coat the Marshmallows

Add 4-5 frozen marshmallows to the batter, ensuring they are fully coated. The thicker-than-pancake batter will cling beautifully to the marshmallows.

Step 5: Fry the Marshmallows

Carefully place the coated marshmallows into the hot oil, frying for 25-30 seconds per side until lightly golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip and remove them from the oil, allowing them to drain on the prepared baking sheet.

Serving Suggestions

These deep fried marshmallows are a star on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as part of a decadent sundae with chocolate and caramel drizzle. For a more colorful presentation, garnish with rainbow sprinkles or edible flowers on a platter.

Pro Tips & Tricks

1. Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil between 365°F and 375°F is crucial for even frying.
2. Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure crispy results.
3. Rest the Batter: Letting the batter sit for 5 minutes after mixing can enhance coating texture.

How to Store Deep Fried Marshmallows

Although best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container for a day in the refrigerator. Reheat using an oven or air fryer to regain some of the crispy texture while avoiding the microwave, which makes them soggy.

General Information

1. Prep time: 15 minutes
2. Cook time: 10 minutes
3. Yield: Serves 4-6
4. Difficulty: Easy

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

A: Yes, any neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or peanut oil would work well.

Q: How do you prevent the marshmallows from melting through the batter during frying?

A: Freezing the marshmallows beforehand helps maintain their shape and structure during frying.

Q: What’s the best way to prevent overcooking them?

A: Keep a close eye once they hit the oil— they soften quickly and are ready when golden brown.

Q: Can the batter be prepared in advance?

A: It’s best to make the batter fresh, but you can mix the dry ingredients ahead to save time.

Conclusion

Deep fried marshmallows are a playful yet sophisticated treat that blends childhood memories with culinary creativity. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover its delightful contrasts of textures and flavors. Share your delightful encounters with this recipe in the comments below and stay tuned for more sweet escapades!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of 5 marshmallows provides approximately:

1. Calories: 180
2. Protein: 2g
3. Fat: 12g
4. Carbs: 16g

These treats are high in fun and make occasional indulgence worthwhile. For a lighter version, consider air-frying or using a reduced-calorie pancake mix. Whatever your choice, enjoy the spirited joy these delightful creations bring to your table!