If you’re looking for a fun, festive treat that’s as charming as it is tasty, you’re going to adore this Mint Snowman Marshmallows Recipe. These fluffy, minty little marshmallows shaped like adorable snowmen always bring a smile to my face, and I’m sure you’ll find they add a magical touch to any holiday gathering or cozy night in. Ready to discover how to make these sweet bites that melt in your mouth and brighten up your winter snacks? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delightfully Minty Flavor: The subtle hint of mint refreshes your taste buds and adds a unique twist to classic marshmallows.
- Cute Snowman Design: These marshmallows are as visually appealing as they are delicious, making them great for gifting or holiday decor.
- Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to whip these up — no fancy equipment required.
- Perfect for All Skill Levels: Whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying marshmallow-making for the first time, the detailed steps will guide you to success.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mint Snowman Marshmallows Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that work together beautifully to create marshmallows with the perfect pillowy texture and refreshing flavor. Keep an eye out for good quality gelatin and pure mint extract to bring out the best results.
- Gelatin: I love using unflavored gelatin because it gives marshmallows that classic fluffy texture without added flavors.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar helps create the sweet structure; make sure it’s fresh for the best caramelization.
- Corn Syrup: This keeps the marshmallows smooth and prevents crystallization — such a game-changer.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance sweetness and enhance flavor.
- Mint Extract: Use high-quality pure mint extract to get that crisp, clean mint taste without artificial notes.
- Powdered Sugar: Perfect for dusting so your marshmallows don’t stick together.
- Candy Melts (Orange): These come in handy to create the carrot noses — so cute and vivid.
- Dark Chocolate (Chopped): Melted into tiny dots, it’s perfect for crafting the snowman’s eyes and buttons.
Variations
I love to mix things up with this Mint Snowman Marshmallows Recipe to keep it exciting whenever I make it. Feel free to personalize these marshmallows to suit your taste or dietary needs. They’re a great blank canvas!
- Chocolate Mint Marshmallows: Swap the dark chocolate for white chocolate and add a little cocoa powder to the mix for a chocolatey minty twist — my kids went crazy over this version!
- Vegan Variation: Use agar powder instead of gelatin and skip the candy melts unless vegan versions are available. It’s a bit of an experiment but so rewarding.
- Fruit Infusion: Add a teaspoon of fresh raspberry puree to the gelatin mixture for a mint-raspberry flavor that bursts with freshness.
- Miniature Snowmen: For parties, I like making bite-sized marshmallows and decorating them with tiny candy faces; they’re perfect little handheld treats.
How to Make Mint Snowman Marshmallows Recipe
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Start by sprinkling the gelatin powder over about half a cup of cold water to let it “bloom.” This means the gelatin absorbs the water and thickens, forming the base for those fluffy marshmallows. I usually set this aside while I prepare the sugar syrup. Patience here makes a big difference!
Step 2: Cook the Sugar Syrup
In a saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, salt, and half a cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat without stirring — I like to use a candy thermometer here for precision. The goal is to reach 240°F (soft-ball stage). This ensures your marshmallows will set properly without being too sticky or hard.
Step 3: Whip It Up
Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the bloomed gelatin while whisking on high speed. It’s amazing how this quickly transforms into a thick, glossy marshmallow batter. Add the mint extract at this point for that beautiful fresh aroma. Continue whipping until the mixture is fluffy and has cooled enough to handle — around 10 minutes.
Step 4: Shape the Snowmen
Sprinkle your workspace and hands with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Scoop out small portions of the marshmallow mixture to form snowman shapes—stacking three rounded “balls” for the head, torso, and base. This part is so much fun, kind of like sculpting with clouds. If the marshmallow is too sticky, dust again to make handling easier.
Step 5: Decorate
Melt the candy melts and dark chocolate in separate bowls over a double boiler or microwave in short bursts. Using a toothpick, dot the chocolate for eyes, mouth, and buttons, then use the orange candy melts for their signature carrot noses. This little step takes the snowmen from marshmallow to magical!
Pro Tips for Making Mint Snowman Marshmallows Recipe
- Temperature Precision: Using a candy thermometer is key for hitting the perfect sugar stage — don’t skip this if you want fluffy marshmallows every time.
- Mint Extract Quality: Pure mint extract gives a natural flavor without bitterness, which I’ve learned makes all the difference.
- Dust Generously: Keep dusting your hands and surfaces with powdered sugar to prevent stickiness; it keeps the shaping relaxing, not frustrating.
- Decoration Patience: Let the marshmallows fully set before decorating—rushing this led me to smudged chocolate eyes more times than I can count!
How to Serve Mint Snowman Marshmallows Recipe
Garnishes
I like to serve these marshmallows garnished with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy or a light dusting of edible glitter for some festive sparkle. The little pop of candy adds crunch and extra minty zest that complements the marshmallows perfectly.
Side Dishes
These Mint Snowman Marshmallows are such a dreamy addition to hot chocolate — especially on cold nights. I love pairing them with a rich, creamy hot cocoa or even a spiced peppermint latte. They also shine alongside gingerbread cookies or peppermint bark for a holiday dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday parties, I arrange the snowman marshmallows on a platter with fresh pine sprigs and cranberries for a pop of color. You can also skewer them on sticks for “marshmallow snowman pops” — they’re a hit at kids’ parties! Wrapping them individually in cellophane with a cute ribbon makes an effortless homemade gift that’s both charming and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store any leftover Mint Snowman Marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature. The powdered sugar coating helps them stay from sticking together, and they stay perfect for up to one week. Just avoid the fridge, or they might weep and get a bit sticky.
Freezing
If I want to save some for later, I freeze them individually wrapped in parchment paper and placed in a freezer bag. This way, they keep for up to a month and thaw quickly on the counter, tasting just as fresh.
Reheating
These marshmallows don’t really need reheating, but if you want to soften them up, I gently microwave one or two for about 5-7 seconds. Be careful not to melt the decoration! They’re also fantastic melted into hot drinks for that cozy, minty hug.
FAQs
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Can I use peppermint extract instead of mint extract for this recipe?
Yes, peppermint extract is a great substitute and will give a stronger, more cooling mint flavor. Just start with a little less and adjust to taste, since peppermint can be more intense and overpower the marshmallows if too much is added.
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How do I prevent the marshmallows from sticking to my hands?
Powdered sugar is your best friend here! Dust your hands and work surface liberally with powdered sugar before handling the marshmallows. If it gets sticky, add more powdered sugar as you go—it keeps the process smooth and enjoyable.
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Can I make this recipe without a candy thermometer?
While a candy thermometer gives you the best accuracy for perfect texture, you can use the “soft-ball stage” test by dropping a bit of syrup into cold water and seeing if it forms a soft, pliable ball that flattens when removed. This takes some practice but works well.
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How long do Mint Snowman Marshmallows last?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they last up to one week. Avoid humid or warm places to prevent them from becoming sticky or melting.
Final Thoughts
This Mint Snowman Marshmallows Recipe is such a heartwarming way to bring a little extra joy and creativity to your kitchen during the colder months. I absolutely love how these marshmallows look almost too good to eat (but trust me, you’ll want to eat them!). Whether you’re gifting them, adding them to your hot cocoa, or simply enjoying them fresh, they’re guaranteed to bring a smile. Give this recipe a try—I promise it’ll become a treasured favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Mint Snowman Marshmallows Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes (including setting time)
- Yield: 25 marshmallows
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these whimsical Mint Snowman Marshmallows, featuring a refreshing mint flavor and festive decoration that’s perfect for holiday treats or fun gatherings. These homemade marshmallows are light, fluffy, and decorated with colorful candy melts and chocolate to create charming snowman faces.
Ingredients
Marshmallow Base
- 1 tbsp gelatin (1 envelope)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp corn syrup
- 1 pinch salt
- 1/4 tsp mint extract
Coating and Decoration
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup orange candy melts
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin over a small amount of cold water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and spongy.
- Cook Sugar Mixture: In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and about 1/2 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves. Then bring it to a boil and cook until it reaches about 240°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Mix Gelatin and Sugar Syrup: Remove the sugar syrup from heat and immediately add the bloomed gelatin, stirring until fully dissolved. Add the mint extract and mix well.
- Whip the Marshmallow Mixture: Pour the hot mixture into a stand mixer bowl and whip on high speed for approximately 10-15 minutes, until the mixture triples in size and has a thick, glossy texture.
- Set the Marshmallows: Dust a baking pan or silicone mat generously with powdered sugar. Spread the marshmallow mixture evenly into the pan, smooth the top, and dust more powdered sugar on top. Let it sit uncovered at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Cut Marshmallows: Once set, use a sharp knife dusted with powdered sugar to cut marshmallows into snowman shapes or desired sizes (approximately 25 pieces).
- Decorate the Snowmen: Melt orange candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl in short intervals, stirring frequently until smooth. Use a small spoon or piping bag to add nose details to the marshmallows. Melt dark chocolate similarly and pipe eyes, mouth, and buttons to complete the snowman faces.
- Let Decorations Set: Allow the decorated marshmallows to rest until the candy melts and chocolate harden before serving or storing.
Notes
- Ensure the sugar syrup reaches the correct temperature for optimal marshmallow texture.
- Use powdered sugar generously to prevent sticking when cutting marshmallows.
- Customize mint extract quantity to taste, but be cautious as it is potent.
- Store marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to a week.
- Use a silicone mat or parchment paper for easy removal of marshmallows from the pan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 marshmallow
- Calories: 52 kcal
- Sugar: 11.7 g
- Sodium: 79 mg
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12.5 g
- Fiber: 0.01 g
- Protein: 0.3 g
- Cholesterol: 0.01 mg
