Indulge in the Best Marshmallows Recipe from French Laundry

Welcome to my recipe for Marshmallows, inspired by the French Laundry Cookbook by Thomas Keller. If you’re looking for a fun and rewarding kitchen project, making homemade marshmallows is a great way to challenge your skills and impress your friends and family.

Marshmallows are one of those classic treats that we all know and love, but have you ever tried making them from scratch? This recipe will guide you through the process, which involves a few key techniques and ingredients, such as gelatin, corn syrup, and egg whites.

The French Laundry is a Michelin-starred restaurant in California, known for its innovative and refined cuisine. This recipe is a testament to Chef Keller’s attention to detail and commitment to using the best ingredients possible. By making these marshmallows at home, you can experience a taste of the French Laundry without leaving your kitchen.

So, grab your stand mixer, some gelatin, and a few other ingredients, and let’s get started on making some fluffy, sweet, and delicious marshmallows. Trust me, once you try homemade marshmallows, you’ll never go back to the store-bought ones again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of sweet, sticky, and fluffy marshmallows, then you’re in for a treat with this recipe! The Marshmallows (French Laundry) Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves homemade marshmallows. Here are some reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

First, this recipe is from the world-renowned French Laundry Cookbook, created by the legendary chef Thomas Keller. The French Laundry is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in California that is known for its exquisite cuisine and attention to detail. This recipe reflects the same level of excellence and precision that you can expect from any dish at the French Laundry.

Second, this recipe is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients. All you need is gelatin, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, salt, and vanilla extract. With these simple ingredients, you can create delicious and fluffy marshmallows that are perfect for any occasion.

Third, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization. You can make basic vanilla marshmallows or experiment with different flavors, such as strawberry, chocolate, or even lobster (yes, lobster marshmallows are a thing!). You can also use these marshmallows to make s’mores, hot chocolate, or any other dessert that requires marshmallows.

Finally, homemade marshmallows are far superior to store-bought ones in terms of taste and texture. Once you try these marshmallows, you’ll never go back to the stale and chemical-laden ones from the grocery store. Plus, making your own marshmallows is a fun and rewarding experience that will impress your friends and family.

In conclusion, the Marshmallows (French Laundry) Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves homemade marshmallows. With its simple ingredients, endless customization options, and superior taste and texture, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredient List

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the ingredients we’ll need to make these homemade marshmallows. Don’t worry, you won’t need any exotic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cold water
• 3 envelopes Knox gelatin
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold water (for the gelatin)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

These ingredients are enough to make basic vanilla marshmallows. However, if you want to take it up a notch, you can add some flavorings or colors to the mixture. You can also dip the marshmallows in chocolate, roll them in graham cracker crumbs, or use them to make s’mores or other desserts. The possibilities are endless!

The Recipe How-To

Step 1: Preparing the Gelatin Mixture

• In a stand mixer bowl, sprinkle gelatin evenly over 1/2 cup of cold water. Let it sit for 10 minutes to bloom.
• Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 1/4 cup of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil. Then let it boil for exactly 1 minute.
• Remove the saucepan from heat and slowly pour the hot mixture into the gelatin mixture while the mixer is running on low speed. Gradually increase the speed to high and beat for 10-12 minutes, until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy.

Step 2: Adding Flavor

• Add vanilla extract to the mixture and beat for an additional minute until well combined.

Step 3: Pouring the Mixture

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and dust it with powdered sugar. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Dust the top with more powdered sugar and let it sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the mixture is set and firm.

Step 4: Cutting and Serving

• Run a knife around the edges of the dish to loosen the marshmallow. Invert the dish onto a cutting board dusted with powdered sugar.
• Use a sharp knife or a cookie cutter to cut the marshmallow into desired shapes and sizes.
• Dust the marshmallows with more powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together.

Enjoy your homemade marshmallows!

Substitutions and Variations

While the basic recipe for French Laundry’s marshmallows is already a delightful treat, there are a number of substitutions and variations you can make to create new and exciting flavors. Here are some ideas to get you started:

– Vanilla Marshmallows: The basic recipe calls for vanilla extract, but you can add more or less to adjust the flavor. You can also substitute other extracts such as almond or peppermint to create different flavor profiles.

– Chocolate Marshmallows: Add cocoa powder to the mixture to create a rich, chocolatey flavor. You can also dip the finished marshmallows in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.

– Strawberry Marshmallows: Puree fresh strawberries and add them to the mixture for a fruity twist on the classic recipe.

– Lobster Marshmallows: Yes, you read that right. The French Laundry is known for its unusual flavor combinations, and lobster marshmallows are no exception. Simply substitute lobster stock for the water in the recipe and add a pinch of salt to create a unique and savory marshmallow.

– Graham Cracker Marshmallows: Crushed graham crackers can be added to the mixture for a delicious s’mores-inspired flavor.

– Guimauve: This is the French word for marshmallow, and you can create a more authentic version by using honey instead of corn syrup.

– Strawberry Marshmallow Treats: Cut the marshmallows into small squares and dip them in melted chocolate for a fruity and decadent dessert.

Whatever variation you choose, the basic recipe is a great starting point for creating your own unique flavor combinations. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients!

Serving and Pairing

Once you’ve whipped up a batch of these delicious homemade marshmallows, it’s time to think about how to serve and pair them. These fluffy, sweet treats are perfect for a variety of occasions, and can be enjoyed on their own or used to elevate other desserts and dishes.

One classic way to enjoy marshmallows is to toast them over an open flame and sandwich them between graham crackers and chocolate for a classic s’mores treat. You can also dip your marshmallows in melted chocolate or roll them in crushed graham crackers for a fun twist on this classic dessert.

For a more elegant presentation, try serving your marshmallows alongside fresh fruit or dipping them in melted chocolate and sprinkling them with sea salt or chopped nuts. You can also use them to add a touch of sweetness to hot cocoa or coffee, or as a garnish for cocktails.

If you’re looking for a pairing that’s a little more unexpected, try serving your marshmallows alongside savory dishes like roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even lobster. The sweetness of the marshmallows can help balance out the flavors of these dishes and add a fun, playful element to your meal.

No matter how you choose to serve and pair your homemade marshmallows, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a sweet, fluffy treat. So get creative and have fun experimenting with different flavor combinations and serving ideas!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

Once you’ve made your homemade marshmallows, you can store them for up to two weeks in an airtight container at room temperature. To prevent sticking, dust them with a mixture of cornstarch and powdered sugar. You can also freeze them for up to two months.

To reheat, place the marshmallows on a parchment-lined baking sheet and broil them for a few seconds until lightly toasted. You can also roast them over an open flame until they’re golden brown and gooey, perfect for s’mores! Just be careful not to burn them.

If you want to make your marshmallows in advance for a special occasion, you can make the recipe up to a week ahead and store them in an airtight container. They’ll still be just as delicious when you’re ready to serve them.

These marshmallows are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of desserts. Try topping a hot cocoa with a homemade marshmallow, or using them in a strawberry marshmallow tart. You can even dip them in chocolate for a decadent treat.

Overall, these homemade marshmallows are a great addition to any dessert table and can be made well in advance. So go ahead and stock up on some marshmallows for your next sweet treat!

Tips for Perfect Results

If you want to make perfect homemade marshmallows, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Firstly, make sure to use a candy thermometer to ensure that you’re cooking your sugar syrup to the correct temperature. This is crucial because if the syrup is undercooked, your marshmallow will not set properly, but if it’s overcooked, it will become too hard and won’t have a fluffy texture.

Secondly, be sure to use a stand mixer with a whisk attachment to beat the marshmallow mixture. A hand mixer can work as well, but it will take longer to achieve the proper consistency.

Next, when it comes to adding in the gelatin, be sure to sprinkle it evenly over the cold water and let it sit for a few minutes to bloom. This ensures that the gelatin will dissolve properly and won’t clump up in the mixture.

Another important tip is to use room temperature egg whites, as cold eggs can cause the marshmallow to deflate.

You can also experiment with different flavors, such as adding vanilla extract or using fruit puree to make strawberry marshmallows.

When it comes to cutting the marshmallows, it’s best to use kitchen scissors that have been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. This makes it easier to cut through the sticky marshmallow without it sticking to the scissors.

Finally, store your homemade marshmallows in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature. If you want to add some variety, try dipping them in melted chocolate or using them to make s’mores with graham crackers and chocolate.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to make perfect homemade marshmallows every time, just like the ones served at The French Laundry.

FAQ

Before wrapping up this article, let me address some of the most commonly asked questions regarding homemade marshmallows. In this section, I will provide answers to some of the most common concerns and issues that you might encounter while making these marshmallows. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these tips will help you achieve the perfect results every time you make this recipe. So, let’s get started!

What are marshmallows fluff made of?

One of my favorite sweet treats to make is Marshmallow Fluff. This delectable mixture is created by whipping together egg whites, sugar, golden syrup, vanilla extract, and just a hint of salt. The fluffy texture and sweet taste make it the perfect complement to cookies, pretzels, or as a decadent topping for desserts.

How do they make marshmallows squishy and fluffy?

As a chef, I know the importance of whipping a mixture just above the melting point of gelatin. This technique allows the mixture to cool below the gel point and solidify, creating a firm gelatin matrix. The matrix then traps the air whipped into it, resulting in a light and airy texture. So, if you want your dish to stay puffy and soft, make sure to master the art of whipping at the right temperature.

What’s in marshmallows and how do the ingredients work together to make Ooey Gooey Treats?

When it comes to marshmallows, the ingredients are pretty simple – sugar, corn syrup, water, and gelatin. While you can add other things for taste and color, the real secret to making marshmallows is all in how you mix these basic ingredients together. By combining sugar and gelatin, you can create a strong structure that can support a network of air bubbles, resulting in fluffy, delicious marshmallows.

How do you make camping marshmallows?

Let’s start by grabbing a large graham cracker and breaking it in half, making sure to have one half for the top and the other for the bottom. Take the chocolate pieces and place them onto the bottom cracker, ensuring that it covers the entire surface. Next, get your hands on a marshmallow or two and gently skewer them onto a stick. Hold the stick over a fire, making sure to rotate it evenly, until the marshmallow turns a beautiful golden brown color.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, making homemade marshmallows is a fun and rewarding experience that is sure to impress your guests. With this French Laundry recipe, you can create marshmallows that are light, fluffy, and full of flavor. Whether you prefer vanilla marshmallows, strawberry marshmallows or chocolate-covered marshmallows, this recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences.

By using high-quality ingredients and following the steps carefully, you can achieve perfect results every time. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how easy it is to make homemade marshmallows that are better than anything you can buy at the store? With a little practice, you’ll be able to create delicious marshmallow treats that will be the talk of the town.

Thank you for reading this article about the French Laundry marshmallow recipe. I hope you have found it informative and helpful. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment or ask any questions you may have. Happy cooking!

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