Description: Indulge in the whimsical delight of Deep Fried Marshmallows! These golden, crispy treats offer a unique textural experience: a crunchy exterior yielding to a molten, gooey center. Coated in a light, buttermilk-infused batter, these marshmallows are fried to perfection, creating a sweet and satisfying snack that’s surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or simply a fun dessert adventure, these Deep Fried Marshmallows are guaranteed to bring smiles to faces of all ages.
Ingredients:
- 20 large marshmallows (preferably regular size, not jumbo)
- 1 ⅓ cups buttermilk pancake mix (store-bought or homemade)
- ⅔ cup whole milk (adjust as needed for batter consistency)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Canola oil for frying (approximately 4-6 cups, depending on your fryer or pot)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, begin by combining the buttermilk pancake mix, whole milk, large egg, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to thoroughly blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and homogenous batter. Be sure to eliminate any lumps from the pancake mix, as these can affect the even coating of the marshmallows.
The ideal batter consistency is crucial for achieving the perfect deep-fried marshmallow. It should be thick enough to cling to the marshmallows without being overly heavy. If the batter appears too thin, gradually add a tablespoon or two of additional pancake mix until you reach the desired thickness. Conversely, if the batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk, a teaspoon at a time, until it thins slightly. A perfectly coated marshmallow will prevent excessive oil absorption during frying, resulting in a lighter, crispier treat.
Step 2: Heat the Frying Oil
Pour the canola oil into a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot. Ensure you have enough oil to fully submerge the marshmallows without overflowing the container. If using a pot, a good rule of thumb is to fill it to a depth of at least 3 inches.
Place the fryer or pot on the stovetop over medium heat. Monitor the oil temperature carefully, using a candy thermometer or deep-fry thermometer to reach the ideal frying temperature of 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the correct temperature is essential for achieving a golden-brown, crispy exterior without burning the marshmallows or leaving them undercooked inside.
If the oil temperature is too low, the marshmallows will absorb excessive oil, resulting in a soggy texture. Conversely, if the oil is too hot, the marshmallows will brown too quickly on the outside while remaining uncooked or even melting excessively on the inside.
Step 3: Coat the Marshmallows
Before frying, prepare your workspace by lining a baking sheet with paper towels to drain the fried marshmallows.
Using a skewer, fork, or even a pair of tongs, carefully dip each marshmallow into the prepared batter. Ensure that the marshmallow is fully coated on all sides. This even coating is vital for creating a uniform crispy shell. Allow any excess batter to drip back into the bowl.
Step 4: Fry the Marshmallows
Once the oil has reached the optimal temperature of 350°F (175°C), gently lower the battered marshmallows into the hot oil. It’s crucial to work in small batches, frying only 3-4 marshmallows at a time to prevent overcrowding the fryer or pot. Overcrowding can cause the oil temperature to drop, leading to uneven cooking and soggy marshmallows.
Fry the marshmallows for approximately 1 to 2 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep a close watch on the marshmallows as they fry, turning them gently with a slotted spoon to ensure even browning on all sides.
Step 5: Drain and Cool
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the fried marshmallows from the hot oil and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet lined with paper towels. Allow the marshmallows to drain for a few minutes to remove any excess oil.
Let the deep-fried marshmallows cool slightly before serving. The cooling process allows the molten interior to set slightly, preventing burns and making them easier to handle. However, they are best enjoyed warm, when the contrast between the crispy exterior and the gooey interior is at its most delightful.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Deep Fried Marshmallows recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Simplicity: The recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
- Unique Texture: The combination of a crispy, golden-brown exterior with a soft, gooey interior creates a delightful textural contrast that is both satisfying and addictive.
- Fun and Whimsical: Deep Fried Marshmallows are a fun and unexpected treat that adds a touch of whimsy to any occasion. They are perfect for parties, celebrations, or simply as a playful dessert.
- Customizable: The basic recipe can be easily customized with different flavor extracts (like almond or peppermint), spices (like cinnamon or nutmeg), or toppings (like chocolate sauce or sprinkles).
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this recipe takes only about 20 minutes to prepare, making it a convenient option for a last-minute dessert or snack.
Cooking Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Dessert: Serve the Deep Fried Marshmallows as a standalone dessert, either warm or slightly cooled.
- With Dips: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, Nutella, or fruit preserves, for an extra layer of flavor.
- With Ice Cream: Pair the Deep Fried Marshmallows with a scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry ice cream for a decadent sundae.
- As a Topping: Crumble the cooled Deep Fried Marshmallows over ice cream, yogurt, or other desserts for a crunchy and sweet topping.
- Skewered: Serve them on skewers, alternating with fresh fruit like strawberries or pineapple, for a fun and portable treat.
Tips:
- Use Fresh Oil: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, clean canola oil.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Closely monitor the oil temperature to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the marshmallows in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature and resulting in soggy treats.
- Drain Well: Drain the fried marshmallows thoroughly on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve Warm: The Deep Fried Marshmallows are best enjoyed warm, when the interior is still soft and gooey.
- Add Flavorings: Experiment with different flavor extracts or spices in the batter to customize the flavor of the marshmallows.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per 3 marshmallows)
Calories: Approximately 180 kcal Protein: Approximately 2g Sodium: Approximately 150mg
Conclusion
Deep Fried Marshmallows are a delightful and surprisingly easy treat to make at home. The combination of crispy, golden-brown exterior and gooey, molten interior is irresistible, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all skill levels. So, gather your ingredients, heat up the oil, and get ready to experience the whimsical joy of Deep Fried Marshmallows!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of oil for frying? Yes, while canola oil is recommended due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point, you can use other oils suitable for deep frying, such as vegetable oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil. Avoid using oils with strong flavors, like olive oil, as they can affect the taste of the marshmallows.
- Can I make the batter ahead of time? While it’s best to use the batter fresh, you can prepare it up to an hour in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, the batter may thicken over time, so you might need to add a splash of milk to thin it out before frying.
- How do I prevent the marshmallows from melting too much during frying? Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial to prevent excessive melting. Make sure the oil is at 350°F (175°C) before adding the marshmallows. Also, avoid overcrowding the fryer or pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and cause the marshmallows to melt.
- Can I use different sized marshmallows? Yes, you can use mini marshmallows or jumbo marshmallows, but you may need to adjust the frying time accordingly. Mini marshmallows will cook faster, while jumbo marshmallows will require a longer frying time.
- How long will the deep fried marshmallows keep? Deep fried marshmallows are best enjoyed fresh and warm. They tend to lose their crispiness over time. If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, but they won’t be as crispy as when they were freshly fried. Reheating is not generally recommended, as it can cause the marshmallows to melt.
