Introduction
Crispy deep fried marshmallows are the ultimate indulgent treat—a gooey, sweet interior wrapped in a golden, crunchy exterior. Perfect for parties, fairs, or cozy nights in, these little bites of joy are surprisingly easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re a fan of classic sweets or on the lookout for a new dessert sensation, deep fried marshmallows hit the sweet spot—literally!
The History of Deep Fried Treats
Deep frying as a method of cooking dates back to ancient civilizations, but it gained massive popularity with fairground foods in the U.S. during the 20th century. From deep fried Oreos to Twinkies, Americans have turned nearly every snack imaginable into deep-fried gold. The deep fried marshmallow, while not as historically iconic, is a logical (and delicious) progression in the world of novelty desserts.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the marshmallows:
- Large marshmallows (standard or jumbo size work best)
For the batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- ¾ cup milk (adjust for consistency)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Other necessities:
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Skewers or toothpicks (optional but helpful)
- Powdered sugar or chocolate drizzle (optional for topping)
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the oil:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350–375°F (175–190°C). - Make the batter:
In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, and vanilla. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth. - Skewer the marshmallows:
Insert each marshmallow onto a skewer or toothpick to make dipping easier. - Dip and fry:
Dip each marshmallow into the batter, coating fully. Carefully drop into hot oil and fry until golden brown (usually 20–30 seconds per side). - Drain and serve:
Remove with a slotted spoon, place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Fried Marshmallows
- Don’t over-fry. The marshmallow can melt too much and make a mess—golden and quick is key.
- Chill the marshmallows before frying to help them hold their shape.
- Use a candy/deep-fry thermometer to keep oil at the right temperature.
- Experiment with coatings: Crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs in the batter add fun texture.
Variations and Customizations
- S’mores style: Roll fried marshmallows in crushed graham crackers and drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Spiced version: Add cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the batter.
- Stuffed marshmallows: Freeze mini chocolate chips or caramel inside marshmallows before frying.
- Vegan alternative: Use plant-based marshmallows and a vegan batter.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Let’s be honest—these aren’t exactly health food. They’re high in sugar, calories, and fat, especially due to deep frying. But as an occasional treat, they’re a fun splurge. For a lighter version, consider air-frying or using smaller marshmallows to cut back on portion size.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these in an air fryer?
A: Yes! While the texture will be slightly different, you can coat the marshmallows in batter and air-fry at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until golden.
Q: Can I prep them ahead of time?
A: It’s best to fry them fresh. However, you can prep the batter and skewered marshmallows in advance and refrigerate them until ready to fry.
Q: What’s the best oil to use?
A: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil.
Crispy Deep Fried Marshmallows
Ingredients
- 01 – 20 jumbo marshmallows.
- 02 – 1 cup pancake mix.
- 03 – 1 large egg.
- 04 – ¾ cup milk.
- 05 – 2 to 3 cups vegetable oil for deep frying.
- 06 – Whipped cream optional, for serving.
- 07 – Chocolate syrup optional, for serving.
- 08 – Sprinkles optional, for serving.
Instructions
- 20 jumbo marshmallows: The star of the show, providing a soft and gooey center.
- 1 cup pancake mix: Forms the base of the batter, creating a light and crispy coating.
- 1 large egg: Adds richness and helps bind the batter.
- ¾ cup milk: Ensures the batter is smooth and easy to coat the marshmallows.
- 2 to 3 cups vegetable oil: Used for deep frying, ensuring the marshmallows are crispy and golden brown.
- Whipped cream (optional, for serving): Adds a creamy and sweet topping.
- Chocolate syrup (optional, for serving): Drizzle over the top for extra sweetness and flavor.
- Sprinkles (optional, for serving): Adds a fun and colorful touch to the finished dessert.
- Step 1: Preheat the Oil
- Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F. Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain the correct temperature for a crispy coating.
- Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- Combine pancake mix, egg, and milk in a bowl. Stir until smooth and free of lumps. Adjust the thickness by adding more milk or pancake mix as needed.
- Step 3: Coat the Marshmallows
- Dip each marshmallow into the batter, ensuring an even coating. Gently shake off excess batter to avoid dripping.
- Step 4: Fry the Marshmallows
- Carefully place coated marshmallows into the hot oil in small batches. Fry for 30 seconds to 1 minute, turning occasionally, until golden brown.
- Step 5: Drain and Serve
- Remove marshmallows with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with optional toppings like whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and sprinkles.