Transform your dessert game with these delightfully fluffy and whimsical “Bo Peeps,” homemade marshmallow treats that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Crafted from scratch with unflavored gelatin, sugar, and a touch of vanilla, these pillowy confections are elevated with a crunchy topping of shredded coconut for a perfect balance of texture. Whether you add an optional pop of color with food coloring or keep them classic, these marshmallows deliver a show-stopping result that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or a weekend indulgence with the family. Featuring just 20 minutes of active prep and naturally gluten-free ingredients, this recipe offers homemade marshmallows in fun shapes that can be customized to your heart’s content. Serve them as a snack, top them over hot cocoa, or gift them in decorative bags for a sweet handmade treat!
Prepare a 9x9-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper and lightly dusting it with powdered sugar.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the unflavored gelatin with 0.5 cup of cold water. Let it bloom for 5 minutes while you prepare the syrup.
In a saucepan over medium heat, mix together sugar, light corn syrup, 0.25 cup of water, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then increase heat to medium-high and bring it to a boil.
Using a candy thermometer, cook the syrup until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage), then remove it from heat.
Carefully pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin while simultaneously mixing on low speed with an electric mixer.
Increase the mixer speed to high and beat for 8–10 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, smooth, and glossy. Add the vanilla extract and food coloring, if using, during the last minute of mixing.
Quickly transfer the marshmallow mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a greased spatula. Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly across the top.
Let the marshmallow set at room temperature for 4–6 hours or overnight.
Once set, lift the marshmallow slab out of the dish and use a greased knife or cookie cutter to shape it into squares or fun designs.
Roll the cut pieces in additional shredded coconut or lightly dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Serve the Bo Peeps on a platter, and enjoy!
Serving size | 608.3 grams (608.3g) |
---|
Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
---|---|
Calories | 2069 |
Total Fat 53.00g | 68% |
Saturated Fat 45.80g | 229% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g | |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 662mg | 29% |
Total Carbohydrate 392.90g | 143% |
Dietary Fiber 13.00g | 46% |
Total Sugars 379.60g | |
Protein 17.50g | 35% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 30mg | 2% |
Iron 3mg | 16% |
Potassium 452mg | 10% |
Source of Calories