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How To Melt Marshmallows

Do you know how to melt marshmallows? Considering the different sizes, shapes, and types, you might not, but this guide will teach you how.

How To Melt Marshmallows

Ask anyone how to melt marshmallows; the popular answer is generally ‘heat them.’ Well, of course, but there is a process to get the desired result. How you approach the task depends on what you intend to do with the melted marshmallows. For example, if the goal is to make marshmallow fluff, the process differs from melting marshmallows for s’mores bars. Moreover, there are different methods to go about it, including using the microwave, stovetop, etc.

What Are Marshmallows?

Marshmallows are fluffy confections often used to adorn mugs of hot chocolate or serve as the sticky, sweet glue that holds s’mores together. Although made using marshmallow root once upon a time, today’s marshmallows consist of sugar, water, and gelatin, giving them their stretchy, gooey quality. The mixture undergoes a whipping process to create their signature spongy texture.

Melted Marshmallow Uses

Marshmallow’s versatility extends beyond their classic form, and melting unlocks that. Uses for melted marshmallows include:

  • S’mores: It isn’t a proper s’more without melted marshmallows. Additionally, melted marshmallows offer a sticky textural element and hold the sweet treat together, making it easier to bite.
  • Dessert toppings and decorations: Melted marshmallows can serve as an irresistible dessert topping/decoration on anything from cakes to ice cream. It has enough structure to stay in place and can be spread, piped, torched, and toasted to add depth to the final result. Additionally, melted marshmallows can be used to make fondant.
  • Hot chocolate upgrade: Just throwing a few marshmallows on top of a cup of hot chocolate is boring and expected. However, when thoroughly melted and turned into fluff, you have a topping that will take a cup of hot chocolate to the next level. The creaminess enhances the richness of the beverage, creating a comforting, indulgent treat.
  • Puffed rice treats: You can’t make them without melted marshmallows. In addition to being the primary structural component, they give the treats their sweet taste.
  • Fondue fun: Melted marshmallows and sweetened condensed milk combine to create a fun, playful, and interactive dessert option. Dip in your favorite fruits, cookies, graham crackers, and more.
Ways To Use Melted Marshmallows

Ways To Melt Marshmallows

Now, let’s explore how you can achieve melted marshmallows with the perfect, gooey consistency. Below each method are steps on exactly how to melt marshmallows using that method for the desired result every time.

Stovetop

  1. Select a pot larger than needed to accommodate the marshmallows you plan to melt, as they will expand once exposed to heat.
  2. Rub a thin layer of neutral cooking oil on the inside of the pot or lightly coat it with cooking spray. It also helps to do the same to the spoon or rubber spatula you plan to use.
  3. Add the marshmallows to the pot, preferably mini marshmallows, and turn the heat to low.
  4. Add water. You will need 3 tablespoons for every 16 ounces of marshmallows.
  5. Stir continuously until the marshmallows melt and reach a smooth consistency. It is important to keep stirring to prevent the marshmallows from burning. This will take about 5 minutes.
  6. Use as desired.

Alternatively, you can follow the same steps using a double boiler, which supplies gentler heat. A double boiler is great because it reduces the chance of burning the marshmallows. Since marshmallows are so sticky, they have a higher chance of scorching. You can use a standard double boiler or make your own by placing a heat-safe bowl over a pot with an inch or two of water.

Microwave Method

  1. Lightly grease a microwave-safe bowl larger than needed since the confections will expand when heated. Do the same with the spoon or rubber spatula you plan to stir with.
  2. Add the marshmallows to the bowl. Drizzle a tablespoon or two of water over the marshmallows.
  3. Microwave in 10-15-second increments, stirring in between, until smooth.

If you’re not looking to melt marshmallows until they reach a smooth, homogeneous consistency, consider one of the following methods.

Grill Method

  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. Add marshmallows to a greased-rimmed baking pan.
  3. Transfer the pan to the grill grates, cover the grill, and heat for a few minutes or until melted to your liking. The bottom of the marshmallows may brown a bit. Move away from direct heat if you’d prefer less browning.

Broiler Method

This method yields marshmallows that are toasty on the exterior and melted on the interior.

  1. Set your oven to broil.
  2. Grab a baking sheet and arrange marshmallows in a single layer.
  3. Pop them under the broiler and leave until toasted on the exterior. Time will vary depending on the size of your marshmallow, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
  4. Flip the marshmallows and repeat on the second side.
  5. Use as desired. If used to make puffed rice treats, mix with the other ingredients while the marshmallows are still hot.
How To Melt Marshmallows On The Stove

Tips For Successful Marshmallow Melting

Don’t use old marshmallows – Over time, they lose their moisture, and once moisture is lost, they melt less easily.

Use minis when you can – Their small size means they melt more quickly. Moreover, they melt more evenly.

Monitor heat closely – Whether using a stovetop, microwave, or other methods, monitor the heat and don’t walk away. You always want to keep an eye on the marshmallows you’re melting.

Avoid thin cookware – Cookware with thin bottoms comes with an increased risk of scorching. The heat permeates the thin material far too quickly to achieve desirable results.

Mise en place – Before you put the marshmallows over the heat, have everything you need on the counter and ready to go so you don’t have to walk away at any time.

Clean equipment promptly – Clean utensils and equipment soon after melting marshmallows to prevent hardening and sticking. Or at least soak them in water. Trust me, this will save you a lot of time and effort.

Read These For More Helpful Cooking Tips!

Monique McArthur
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