Orange Cream Marshmallows Recipe | Homemade Fluffy Citrus Marshmallows
Experience the magic of homemade Orange Cream Marshmallows — soft, fluffy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor! These delightful marshmallows bring a nostalgic treat to life with a bright orange twist, perfect for Halloween, holiday gift-giving, or any festive occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll make marshmallows far superior to store-bought varieties, complete with a beautiful orange hue thanks to optional food coloring.
Why Make Orange Cream Marshmallows at Home?
Making homemade marshmallows is not only fun but incredibly rewarding. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade marshmallows have a soft, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth. By adding orange extract and a splash of orange food coloring, these marshmallows become a deliciously unique treat that’s bursting with citrus freshness — a perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Plus, you control every ingredient, so no artificial flavors or preservatives! These marshmallows also make excellent gifts or seasonal treats that impress.
Ingredients for Orange Cream Marshmallows
Marshmallow Base:
- ¾ cup corn syrup
- 1½ cups sugar
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons ice-cold water
- 3 packages plain gelatin
- ½ teaspoon orange extract
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 5–7 drops orange food coloring (optional for vibrant color)
Coating:
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- Cooking spray (canola or vegetable oil)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Gelatin
In a large mixing bowl, pour ½ cup cold water. Sprinkle gelatin evenly over the surface. Add 2 tablespoons of water to any dry spots and let gelatin bloom for 10 minutes.
2. Make the Sugar Syrup
Combine corn syrup, sugar, salt, and ½ cup water in a saucepan. Attach a candy thermometer and heat over high until it reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage).
3. Whip the Marshmallow Mixture
Slowly pour hot syrup into the gelatin mixture while the mixer runs on low. Increase speed to high and whip for 12 minutes until thick and fluffy. Add orange extract, vanilla, and food coloring during the last minute of whipping.
4. Prepare the Pan
Mix powdered sugar and cornstarch in a bowl. Spray a 13×9-inch pan with cooking spray, then sift in a thin layer of the sugar mixture.
5. Set the Marshmallows
Pour marshmallow mixture into the pan and smooth with an oiled spatula. Spray top with cooking spray and dust with more powdered sugar mixture. Let set for 5–8 hours or overnight.
6. Cut and Coat
Loosen marshmallows from pan edges using an oiled spatula. Transfer to a powdered sugar–dusting surface. Cut into 1-inch squares using an oiled knife or pizza cutter. Toss pieces in remaining powdered sugar mixture to prevent sticking.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Marshmallows
- Use a candy thermometer to get the syrup temperature exactly right.
- Don’t rush the whipping — aeration is key to light, fluffy marshmallows.
- Adjust orange extract to taste for subtle or bold citrus flavor.
- Store marshmallows in an airtight container to maintain freshness up to one week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 232 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 26mg
- Sodium: 194mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 11g
- Vitamin A: 170 IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
The Science Behind the Perfect Marshmallow Texture
Gelatin provides the signature chewy but soft structure by forming a gel that traps air whipped into the sugar syrup. Heating the sugar syrup to 250°F ensures the right consistency for a smooth blend. When whipped properly, the mixture becomes a cloud-like treat with the ideal balance between firmness and fluffiness. The orange and vanilla extracts infuse refreshing and warm flavors that complement the sweet base perfectly.
Why You’ll Love These Orange Cream Marshmallows
- Bright citrus flavor elevates a classic treat with a zesty twist
- Vibrant orange color makes them perfect for festive celebrations
- Homemade freshness with no artificial additives
- Soft, chewy texture unlike any store-bought marshmallow
- Great for gifting, party treats, or cozy hot chocolate toppings
Perfect Occasions to Serve Orange Cream Marshmallows
- Halloween parties and spooky treats
- Christmas and holiday gifting
- Birthday celebrations
- Cozy nights by the fire with hot cocoa
- DIY edible gifts for friends and family
Final Thoughts
Orange Cream Marshmallows are a delicious and fun homemade confection that blends the classic marshmallow experience with a refreshing citrus boost. Whether you want a festive treat, a unique gift, or a new baking project, this recipe delivers fluffy, flavorful results that will wow anyone lucky enough to try them. Elevate your sweet tooth with this bright, airy delight!
