There’s something truly enchanting about the process of making marshmallows from scratch, especially when they come adorned with the rich, buttery sweetness of butterscotch. As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of melting sugar filled the air, instantly transporting me back to cozy evenings spent with loved ones, sipping hot cocoa and enjoying simple delights. These Butterscotch Marshmallows are not only a nostalgic treat but also an opportunity to create something extraordinary at home. You can easily craft them to be boozy with a splash of aged rum or keep them alcohol-free for family gatherings. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, these fluffy, decadent bites are perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to elevate your dessert game!
Why are Butterscotch Marshmallows a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The dazzling combination of buttery butterscotch and subtle saltiness creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Fun to Make: Whipping up these marshmallows is an entertaining project, perfect for a relaxing afternoon in the kitchen.
Customizable Options: Whether you choose the boozy rum version or the non-alcoholic alternative, these marshmallows cater to any crowd.
Gift-Worthy Treats: Beautifully packaged, they make delightful gifts for friends and family, spreading sweetness everywhere.
Satisfying Nostalgia: Indulge in a trip down memory lane with every bite, perfect for pairing with your favorite hot chocolate or festive treats.
Let these Butterscotch Marshmallows charm your taste buds and impress your loved ones today!
Butterscotch Marshmallows Ingredients
For the Marshmallow Base
- Cold Water – Base liquid for blooming gelatin; you can substitute half with rum for a boozy treat.
- Powdered Gelatin – Provides the essential structure for achieving that fluffy marshmallow texture.
- White Sugar – Main sweetener that balances flavors and guarantees the right consistency.
- Dark Brown Sugar – Adds depth and a rich sweetness; avoid using only brown sugar as it can change the texture.
- Corn Syrup – Prevents crystallization; while it can be omitted, it’s recommended for the smoothest results.
- Salt – Enhances all the sweet notes and balances the overall flavor profile.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses aromatic goodness; feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- Aged Rum – Optional ingredient that adds a fun, boozy twist to the marshmallows for adult enjoyment.
- Unsalted Butter – Introduces richness and flavor; ensure it’s melted and lukewarm for easy incorporation.
For Dusting and Coating
- Confectionery Sugar & Cornstarch – Combines to dust the marshmallows, preventing stickiness and enhancing presentation.
- Melted Chocolate – An optional coating that enhances flavor and adds a delightful crunch when finished.
How to Make Butterscotch Marshmallows
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Bloom Gelatin: Sprinkle powdered gelatin over cold water and let it sit undisturbed for 10 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture we all love in marshmallows.
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Prepare Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine white sugar, dark brown sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently until dissolved, ensuring it blends smoothly without any lumps.
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Heat Syrup: On medium heat, bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and allow it to simmer. This step is important to dissolve all the sugar; aim for the syrup to reach a temperature between 242°F and 245°F.
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Combine Syrup and Gelatin: Carefully pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin while mixing on low speed. Once combined, increase the speed to medium-high and whip until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and doubled in volume.
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Add Flavorings: Gently fold in the vanilla extract and aged rum, if using, until fully incorporated. This will infuse the marshmallows with that delicious butterscotch flavor.
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Fold in Butter: Take about one cup of the marshmallow mixture and blend in the lukewarm melted butter slowly. Once combined, fold this back into the remaining marshmallow base ensuring no air is deflated.
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Pour into Pan: Scrape the sticky mixture into a buttered or lined 8 x 8-inch pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth surface.
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Set Marshmallows: Dust the top with a mixture of confectionery sugar and cornstarch to prevent sticking. Allow the marshmallows to set for at least 6 hours or overnight, then cut them into squares and enjoy!
Optional: For an added touch, drizzle with melted chocolate for a sweet crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Butterscotch Marshmallows
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your syrup reaches 242°F to 245°F for perfect texture. Too low, and they won’t set properly; too high can cause crystallization.
- Gelatin Blooming: Let your gelatin bloom fully in cold water. This is crucial for achieving that soft, airy marshmallow consistency we all crave.
- Butter Temperature: Use lukewarm melted butter for easy incorporation. Cold butter can deflate your marshmallows, affecting texture.
- Humidity Check: Make these marshmallows on a dry day or in air conditioning; high humidity can prevent them from setting properly.
- Dusting Technique: Generously coat your cutting board or knife with confectionary sugar and cornstarch to avoid stickiness during cutting.
- Flavor Variations: Get creative! Try adding different flavor extracts or using flavored sugars for unique butterscotch marshmallows.
What to Serve with Butterscotch Marshmallows?
These delightful marshmallows are perfect for sharing and elevate any gathering with their rich, buttery sweetness.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: A classic pairing that enhances the marshmallows’ sweetness and turns every sip into a cozy moment.
- Gooey S’mores: Toast the marshmallows over the fire and sandwich them between graham crackers and chocolate for an unforgettable treat.
- Whipped Cream: Top your desserts or hot beverages with a dollop of whipped cream, complementing the marshmallows’ soft texture.
- Nutty Biscotti: The crunch of biscotti provides a perfect contrast to the softness of the marshmallows and makes for a delightful tea-time snack.
- Spiced Apple Cider: The warmth and spices in cider create a charming flavor harmony, enhancing the sweet and buttery notes of the butterscotch marshmallows.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of the marshmallows into melted chocolate for an indulgent dessert that is sure to impress.
- Fresh Berries: Their tartness balances the sweetness of the marshmallows, adding a refreshing touch to your dessert platter.
- Chai Tea: The fragrant spices in chai create a comforting pairing with the soft, buttery marshmallows, perfect for a quiet evening at home.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream topped with these heavenly marshmallows delivers a delicious contrast of temperatures and textures.
Make Ahead Options
These Butterscotch Marshmallows are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bloom the gelatin and prepare the sugar syrup up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a smoother process on the day you want to enjoy them. To do this, simply prepare the gelatin mixture and store it in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to incorporate it with the syrup. When you’re set to finish the Butterscotch Marshmallows, heat the syrup and combine it with the bloomed gelatin, then proceed as directed. Remember, to maintain that fluffy texture, whip it well and let it set overnight for the best results. Enjoy these delightful treats without the last-minute rush!
Butterscotch Marshmallows Variations
Feel free to make these marshmallows your own with a few simple twists that enhance their deliciousness and creativity.
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Non-Alcoholic: Omit the rum and add an extra splash of vanilla extract for a delightful family-friendly treat.
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Flavor Twist: Swap aged rum for flavored extracts such as hazelnut or coffee. This will introduce new and exciting layers to the marshmallow experience!
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Sugar Options: Use only light brown sugar for a milder flavor or coconut sugar for a hint of caramel undertones. Each option brings its unique taste to the mix!
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Texture Variations: Dust with crushed nuts or cookie crumbs instead of confectionery sugar for a delightful crunch that enhances the marshmallow’s softness.
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Heat it Up: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the mix for a surprising kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of butterscotch.
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Choco Delight: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the finished marshmallows for a rich, sweet coating that adds depth and a new flavor dimension.
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Seasonal Infusion: Add pumpkin pie spice or peppermint extract (for winter) to keep your marshmallows looking and tasting festive throughout the year!
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Alternative Dusting: Experiment with cocoa powder or finely shredded coconut as a dusting for visual flair and unique taste profiles that will impress your guests!
How to Store and Freeze Butterscotch Marshmallows
Room Temperature: Store your marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain their soft and fluffy texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can keep them in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to 3 weeks. Make sure they’re well-sealed to avoid drying out!
Freezer: If you want to store your butterscotch marshmallows for an extended period, freeze them for up to 3 months. Ensure they are in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy them warm, simply microwave for a few seconds until they’re soft and gooey—perfect for topping on a hot drink!
Butterscotch Marshmallows (Buttered Rum Marshmallows) Recipe FAQs
What type of cold water should I use for blooming gelatin?
You can use regular tap water for blooming gelatin. I recommend using filtered water if you want to keep the flavors as pure as possible. This step is vital for the marshmallows to achieve that delightful fluffy texture we all adore.
How should I store my Butterscotch Marshmallows?
Store your butterscotch marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep them for longer, you can refrigerate them, where they’ll last for up to 3 weeks. Just ensure they are sealed properly to keep that soft, chewy texture intact!
Can I freeze Butterscotch Marshmallows, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your butterscotch marshmallows, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, then freeze for about 1 hour. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper if desired. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature.
What do I do if my marshmallow mixture doesn’t get fluffy?
If your marshmallow mixture isn’t becoming fluffy, it could be due to insufficient syrup temperature. Ensure your syrup reaches 242°F to 245°F. Additionally, make sure you’re mixing at the right speed. Start low to avoid splashing, then whip on medium-high until the volume doubles. If it’s still not working, allowing it to sit for a few minutes before mixing again can help.
Are these marshmallows safe for pets?
While marshmallows are generally safe for pets in small amounts, they contain high sugar levels and may cause tummy upsets. It’s best to keep these butterscotch marshmallows out of their reach, especially since they contain ingredients like sugar and butter that could lead to undesirable side effects.
Can I modify the ingredients for allergies?
Certainly! To make the recipe gluten-free, ensure your corn syrup is certified gluten-free. For dairy-free options, try using coconut oil in place of butter. If you’re concerned about allergies, always check the labels of the ingredients you’re using and consider substituting items accordingly.
Butterscotch Marshmallows: Irresistibly Boozy & Fluffy Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bloom Gelatin: Sprinkle powdered gelatin over cold water and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Prepare Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine white sugar, dark brown sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir until dissolved.
- Heat Syrup: Bring mixture to a boil on medium heat, cover, and let simmer to dissolve sugar.
- Combine Syrup and Gelatin: Pour hot syrup into bloomed gelatin on low speed, then increase to medium-high and whip until fluffy.
- Add Flavorings: Fold in vanilla extract and aged rum until fully incorporated.
- Fold in Butter: Blend one cup of marshmallow mixture with the melted butter, then fold back into the base.
- Pour into Pan: Scrape the mixture into a buttered or lined 8 x 8-inch pan, spreading evenly.
- Set Marshmallows: Dust top with confectionery sugar and cornstarch, allow to set for at least 6 hours.