Itβs time for some cranberry, pumpkin, apples, and everything spiced! Sweater season is here which means weβre hungrier than ever. Want to know what food to cook this Fall? Keep on reading!
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Marshmallow Fluff
Estimated reading time: 9 minutes
Marshmallow Fluff (Fluff, Homemade Marshmallow Creme) - Create your own velvety, homemade Marshmallow Fluff with this foolproof recipe. Delight in the sweet and airy perfection of this fluffy confection as you master the art of combining sugar, egg whites, and a touch of vanilla. Whether you're spreading it on a sandwich, swirling it into desserts, or enjoying it straight from the spoon, this Marshmallow Fluff is a delightful treat that will elevate your culinary creations to new heights. With a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you'll never need to buy store-bought marshmallow fluff again.
What's the history of Marshmallow Fluff? Who invented it?
Marshmallow Fluff, also known simply as "fluff," is a sweet, spreadable confection with a marshmallow-like texture. It was invented by Archibald Query, a resident of Somerville, Massachusetts, in the United States. Query first developed the formula for marshmallow fluff in the early 20th century.
The exact date of its invention is a matter of some debate, but it is generally believed to have been created in the 1910s. Archibald Query was a confectioner, and he initially sold his creation door-to-door in Somerville. However, Query's marshmallow fluff was quite different from the modern version, as it was denser and needed to be melted before consumption.
In 1917, Query sold his recipe to two men, H. Allen Durkee and Fred L. Mower, who founded the Durkee-Mower Company. They made some adjustments to the formula and began mass-producing the product as "Toot Sweet Marshmallow Fluff." Over time, the product became lighter and more fluffy in texture, which is the characteristic texture of marshmallow fluff we know today.
Marshmallow Fluff gained popularity as a sandwich spread and ingredient in various recipes. It became an iconic American treat, known for its use in classic recipes like the Fluffernutter sandwich and Rice Krispie treats.
To this day, Marshmallow Fluff remains a beloved and nostalgic ingredient in American cuisine, and the Durkee-Mower Company (now owned by Durkee-Mower, Inc.) continues to produce and sell it.
This recipe is a homemade version of Marshmallow Fluff that can be made in the comfort of your own home.
Is Marshmallow Fluff considered a retro recipe or food?
Yes, Marshmallow Fluff is often considered a retro or nostalgic food. It has a long history and has been a part of American culinary culture for many decades. Some people associate it with the mid-20th century, and it was particularly popular in the mid-1900s. Its simplicity and sweet, fluffy texture make it a classic comfort food that many people remember from their childhood.
Marshmallow Fluff is commonly used in recipes that evoke a sense of nostalgia, such as Fluffernutter sandwiches, Rice Krispie treats, and old-fashioned desserts. While it's still available and enjoyed today, it often brings back memories of simpler times and traditional American comfort food. As a result, it is often regarded as a retro or vintage food product.
What are some ways/recipes that you can use Marshmallow Fluff?
Marshmallow fluff is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways and recipes. Here are some ideas:
- Fluffernutter Sandwich: Spread marshmallow fluff and peanut butter between two slices of bread for a delicious and nostalgic sandwich.
- S'mores: Use marshmallow fluff instead of traditional marshmallows in s'mores. Spread it on graham crackers with chocolate for a no-bake treat.
- Dessert Toppings: Dollop marshmallow fluff on ice cream, hot chocolate, or pies for a sweet and creamy topping.
- Fluffernutter Dip: Create a dessert dip by mixing marshmallow fluff with cream cheese and vanilla extract. Serve with fruit, cookies, or pretzels for dipping.
- Rice Krispie Treats: Combine marshmallow fluff with crispy rice cereal and butter to make no-bake Rice Krispie treats.
- Frosting: Use marshmallow fluff as a frosting for cakes and cupcakes. You can also brown the fluff with a kitchen torch for a toasted marshmallow effect.
- Fruit Salad: Mix marshmallow fluff with a little yogurt or sour cream and toss it with fresh fruit for a sweet and creamy fruit salad.
- Filling for Pastries: Use it as a filling for pastries, like turnovers or Danishes.
- Fluffernutter Hot Chocolate: Add a spoonful of marshmallow fluff to your hot chocolate for an extra indulgent and creamy drink.
- Rocky Road Ice Cream: Mix marshmallow fluff, chocolate chips, and chopped nuts into chocolate ice cream for a homemade rocky road flavor.
- S'mores Brownies: Swirl marshmallow fluff into brownie batter before baking for a gooey, s'mores-inspired treat.
- Marshmallow Fluff Popcorn: Drizzle melted marshmallow fluff over popcorn and toss for a sweet and sticky snack.
- Peanut Butter Marshmallow Fluff Pie: Create a pie with a graham cracker crust, a layer of peanut butter, and a fluffy topping of marshmallow fluff.
- Homemade Moon Pies: Make your own moon pies by sandwiching marshmallow fluff between two cookies, then dip them in chocolate.
- Fluff Fruit Dip: Serve marshmallow fluff as a dip for a platter of fresh fruit at parties and gatherings.
These are just a few ideas to get you started, but the possibilities are nearly endless when it comes to using marshmallow fluff in your recipes and creations. Enjoy experimenting and adding a touch of sweetness and fluffiness to your favorite dishes.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The number of servings you'll get from this homemade marshmallow fluff recipe can vary depending on how you use it. Typically, this recipe yields approximately 2 to 2.5 cups of marshmallow fluff.
The number of servings will depend on how generously you use it in your recipes. For example, if you're making fluffernutter sandwiches (a classic combination of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff), you might get around 4 to 8 sandwiches, depending on how much fluff you use. If you're using it as a topping for a dessert, it could serve more or less, depending on your portion sizes.
So, the number of servings is flexible and depends on your specific use and portion preferences.
What's the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time for this homemade marshmallow fluff recipe is approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This includes the time it takes to gather your ingredients, set up your equipment, and follow the steps to make the fluff. Keep in mind that the total time may vary depending on your cooking skills and experience with making marshmallow fluff. However, it's a relatively quick and straightforward recipe to prepare.
What's the cooking time for this recipe?
The cooking time for this homemade marshmallow fluff recipe is primarily the time it takes to heat the sugar syrup in the double boiler setup. You'll need to heat the sugar syrup until it reaches 240Β°F (115Β°C) on a candy thermometer, which is the soft-ball stage. This process typically takes about 5-7 minutes.
So, the cooking time for this recipe is approximately 5-7 minutes. Keep in mind that the majority of the time is spent monitoring and heating the sugar syrup, while the other steps, such as whipping the egg whites and mixing, don't involve additional cooking time.
Ingredients
*The full, printable recipe is at the bottom of the post
- ΒΎ cup granulated sugar
- Β½ cup light corn syrup
- ΒΌ cup water
- β teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg whites
- ΒΌ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
What diets/diet lifestyles does this recipe adhere to?
The homemade marshmallow fluff recipe is not suitable for specific diets or diet lifestyles that prioritize health-conscious or restrictive dietary choices. This recipe contains sugar and corn syrup, which are high in refined sugars and may not align with the following diets or diet lifestyles:
- Low-Sugar Diet: This recipe contains granulated sugar and corn syrup, which are high in sugar. If you're following a low-sugar diet, this recipe is not suitable.
- Keto Diet: The high sugar content in this recipe makes it unsuitable for a ketogenic diet, which is focused on low-carb, high-fat foods.
- Paleo Diet: The inclusion of refined sugar and corn syrup does not fit within the guidelines of the Paleo diet, which emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods.
- Vegan Diet: This recipe uses egg whites, which are not vegan. Vegans avoid all animal products, including eggs.
- Gluten-Free Diet: The ingredients listed in the recipe are gluten-free, but be cautious of cross-contamination if you have celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance.
- Low-Carb Diet: Due to the high sugar content, this recipe is not suitable for low-carb diets.
- Low-Calorie Diet: Marshmallow fluff is high in calories, primarily from sugar. It may not align with low-calorie diet plans.
- Whole Food Plant-Based Diet: This recipe contains refined sugar and corn syrup, which are not whole, plant-based foods. Therefore, it doesn't conform to a whole food plant-based diet.
It's important to be mindful of your dietary requirements and restrictions when considering this recipe, as it is a sweet treat that primarily consists of sugar and may not be suitable for individuals with specific dietary needs or preferences.
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Now you have a batch of homemade marshmallow fluff ready to use in your favorite recipes. Enjoy it in sandwiches, as a dip, or in various desserts!
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Marshmallow Fluff
Yield:
2 cups
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
5 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes
Create your own velvety, homemade Marshmallow Fluff with this foolproof recipe. Delight in the sweet and airy perfection of this fluffy confection as you master the art of combining sugar, egg whites, and a touch of vanilla. Whether you're spreading it on a sandwich, swirling it into desserts, or enjoying it straight from the spoon, this Marshmallow Fluff is a delightful treat that will elevate your culinary creations to new heights. With a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you'll never need to buy store-bought marshmallow fluff again.
Ingredients
- ΒΎ cup granulated sugar
- Β½ cup light corn syrup
- ΒΌ cup water
- β teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg whites
- ΒΌ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Your Equipment: Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free from any grease, as any impurities can affect the fluff's texture.
- Start with a Double Boiler: In a heatproof bowl, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, creating a double boiler setup. Ensure that the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water.
- Whip Egg Whites: While the sugar mixture is heating, start whipping the egg whites and cream of tartar in a separate mixing bowl. Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. This typically takes a few minutes.
- Heat the Sugar Syrup: Continuously stir the sugar mixture in the double boiler until it reaches 240Β°F (115Β°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the softball stage.
- Slowly add the Hot Syrup: With the egg whites at soft peaks, carefully pour the hot sugar syrup in a slow, steady stream into the whipped egg whites. Continue to beat the mixture as you add the syrup.
- Whip Until Fluffy: Continue whipping the mixture at high speed until it becomes thick and glossy, and the bowl is no longer warm to the touch. This may take about 7-10 minutes.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Once the mixture is thick and fluffy, add the vanilla extract and beat for another minute to incorporate it.
- Cool and Store: Allow the marshmallow fluff to cool to room temperature before using it. It will thicken as it cools. Store the fluff in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
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Double Boiler Pot Set, Stainless Steel Melting Pot with Silicone Spatula for Melting Chocolate, Soap, Wax, Candle Making (600ml and 1600ml) -
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Homestia Stainless Steel Measuring Cups and Spoons Set of 8 Pcs Baking Cooking Utensils with Measurement for Dry and Liquid Ingredients, Black
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 139Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 59mgCarbohydrates: 35gFiber: 0gSugar: 35gProtein: 1g
Please note that the Calculated Nutrition is an estimate at best. If you make this recipe and love it, remember to stop back and give it a 5-star rating β it helps others find the recipe!
Disclaimer
The following recipe is provided for informational purposes only. Please be aware of potential risks and considerations when making and consuming homemade marshmallow fluff:
- Sugar Content: This recipe contains a significant amount of sugar. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar may not be suitable for individuals with certain dietary restrictions, or health conditions, or those on specific diets.
- Food Safety: The recipe involves heating sugar to a high temperature, which can be dangerous. Take precautions to avoid burns and exercise caution when handling hot syrup.
- Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Marshmallow fluff contains egg whites, which may not be suitable for individuals with egg allergies or those following vegan diets. Always consider dietary restrictions and allergies when preparing and serving this recipe.
- Equipment: Ensure that your equipment, such as the candy thermometer, is in good working condition. Properly clean and maintain equipment to ensure safety.
- Portion Control: Marshmallow fluff is a sweet treat and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
- Storage: Store homemade marshmallow fluff in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Proper storage is essential to maintain quality and safety.
- Children and Supervision: When making this recipe with children, provide adequate supervision, especially when working with hot sugar.
By using this recipe, you acknowledge and accept responsibility for any risks associated with its preparation and consumption. Please consider individual dietary needs and preferences, and prioritize safety when handling hot ingredients and equipment.
- First published: 10/28/2023
- Updated & republished: 6/21/2024
Owner at Life's Little Sweets
Sara is an architectural designer turned work-at-home Mom. She lives in New Jersey by way of New England and New York, with her husband and 3 kids under 8. She loves design, being creative, and spending time with family and friends. She loves checking out local businesses and eats and being apart of the local farm to table community.
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