Frequently Asked Questions
What are Gourmet Spiced Marshmallows?
Gourmet Spiced Marshmallows are homemade treats infused with aromatic spices like allspice, nutmeg, and cinnamon, perfect for holiday desserts or hot chocolate.
Who inspired this specific marshmallow recipe?
This recipe is inspired by Chef Bradley Ogden's recipe from Caesars Palace.
What spices are used to flavor these marshmallows?
The recipe uses allspice, nutmeg, and cinnamon to provide a warm, comforting flavor.
What temperature must the sugar mixture reach?
The sugar mixture should reach 260 degrees Fahrenheit, which is known as the hard ball stage.
How do I bloom the gelatin for this recipe?
Soak 9 gelatin sheets or 2 tablespoons of gelatin powder in 3/4 cup of cold water for about 5 minutes until softened.
What equipment is needed to cook the sugar?
A heavy-bottomed noncorrosive 2-quart saucepan and a candy thermometer are recommended.
How many egg whites are required?
The recipe requires 2 egg whites, beaten until stiff peaks form.
How long should I beat the mixture after adding the spices?
Continue to beat the mixture for approximately 12 minutes until it has cooled and becomes fluffy.
What is used to coat the marshmallows so they don't stick?
A sifted mixture of 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 cup cornstarch is used for coating.
What size cookie sheet should I use?
A 17 x 11 inch cookie sheet is ideal for spreading the marshmallow mixture.
How long do the marshmallows need to set?
The marshmallows should sit undisturbed for about one hour to properly set.
What is the best way to cut the marshmallows?
Using kitchen shears is the recommended method for cutting the marshmallows into your desired sizes and shapes.
How should the finished marshmallows be stored?
Store them in an airtight container until you are ready to use or serve them.
Are these marshmallows suitable for hot chocolate?
Yes, they are specifically designed to enrich a steaming cup of hot chocolate with their spiced flavor.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 31 calories.
What is the fat content of these marshmallows?
These marshmallows contain 0g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 8g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in the recipe?
Each serving provides about 0.17g of protein.
Can I use gelatin powder instead of sheets?
Yes, you can substitute 9 gelatin sheets with 2 tablespoons of gelatin powder.
What type of sugar is used for the base syrup?
The recipe uses 2 cups of granulated sugar combined with corn syrup and water.
Do I need to stir the sugar mixture while it boils?
Yes, stir occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking to the saucepan.
How long should the gelatin-sugar mixture cool before adding to egg whites?
Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes, ensuring it does not begin to harden.
Can I pipe the marshmallows into shapes?
Yes, you can use a pastry bag to pipe out individual shapes instead of pouring the mixture onto a sheet.
What is the 'hard ball stage' in candy making?
It refers to the sugar concentration reached at 260 degrees Fahrenheit.
How much corn syrup is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of corn syrup.
Are these marshmallows gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients list (sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, egg whites, spices, cornstarch), they are naturally gluten-free.
Can these be given as gifts?
Absolutely; they are highly recommended as gifts when placed in decorative jars.
Can these marshmallows be toasted?
Yes, the description suggests they are enjoyable when toasted by the fire.
What is the total amount of water used?
A total of 1.5 cups of water is used, divided into two 3/4 cup portions.
What should the texture of the egg whites be?
The egg whites should be beaten until they form stiff peaks before adding the sugar mixture.