These rose-flavored homemade marshmallows are a delightful treat, perfect for any special occasion or just a sweet indulgence. They are light, fluffy, and infused with the delicate aroma and taste of rose water. The addition of dried rose petals makes them not only delicious but also beautiful. These marshmallows are a great addition to a bridal shower, baby shower, or even a hot chocolate bar. Easy to make with just a few ingredients, they will surely impress your guests!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 cup water, divided into two ½ cups
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• ¾ ounce unflavored gelatin (3 packets)
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp rose water extract
• 3 tbsp dried rose petals
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Prepare a 6 x 6 baking pan by rubbing a little vegetable oil on the bottom and sides. Dust it with powdered sugar to coat the entire pan.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup of water, sugar, and light corn syrup. Stir well and bring to a boil while watching the temperature with a candy thermometer. Bring it to 240-250°F (soft ball to firm ball stage).
3. While the sugar mixture is heating, whisk the gelatin and the remaining ½ cup of water in a small bowl until frothy and smooth.
4. Once the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature, reduce the heat to low. Carefully add the hot sugar mixture into the mixing bowl with the gelatin. Whisk on medium speed until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy.
5. After about 10 minutes, add the rose water extract and salt. Continue to whisk for another minute.
6. Pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the dried rose petals over the top.
7. Let the marshmallows set uncovered for 6-8 hours or overnight.
8. To remove the marshmallows, use a well-oiled knife to cut around the edges of the pan. Sprinkle powdered sugar on your hands and the knife to prevent sticking. Lift the marshmallows out and cut them into squares.
9. Dust the cut marshmallows with powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together.

Nutrients (Per Marshmallow)

• Calories: 236 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fat: 1g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Sugar: 62g
• Calcium: 5mg

The Appeal of Homemade Marshmallows

There’s something special about homemade marshmallows that sets them apart from store-bought versions. While store-bought marshmallows tend to be mass-produced and often lack character, homemade marshmallows allow you to control the flavor, texture, and ingredients, making them a more personalized and satisfying treat. The process of making marshmallows from scratch is surprisingly simple, requiring only a handful of ingredients, and the end result is always a showstopper. Homemade marshmallows are soft, airy, and melt-in-your-mouth, with a perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. Infusing them with rose water takes these marshmallows to the next level, making them a standout choice for any dessert or celebration.

Why Rose Water?

Rose water, a fragrant distillation of rose petals, is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisines. Its delicate floral aroma and taste bring a touch of elegance to a wide range of dishes, from baked goods to beverages. In marshmallows, rose water adds a subtle floral note that complements the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the gelatin. The flavor is light yet aromatic, making the marshmallows feel sophisticated without overwhelming the palate. Rose water is often used in desserts for its ability to evoke a sense of luxury and refinement, making it the perfect addition to these homemade marshmallows.

The Role of Gelatin in Marshmallow Making

Gelatin is the key ingredient that gives marshmallows their signature soft, bouncy texture. It works by forming a gel when dissolved in water, creating the perfect consistency to trap air and make the marshmallow fluffy. The gelatin used in this recipe is unflavored, ensuring that it doesn’t interfere with the delicate rose flavor. While the gelatin is dissolving, it is important to whisk it properly to avoid any lumps, ensuring the marshmallow mixture is smooth and airy when it’s whipped. The gelatin also helps the marshmallows maintain their structure, so they don’t collapse or become too soft. Once the marshmallows have set, the gelatin provides that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience that makes marshmallows so irresistible.

Incorporating Dried Rose Petals

One of the highlights of these rose-flavored marshmallows is the addition of dried rose petals. Not only do the rose petals enhance the visual appeal of the marshmallows, but they also provide an extra layer of flavor. The petals impart a slight earthy note that complements the floral taste of the rose water. Dried rose petals are often used in baking and confectionery to add texture and interest, and they work beautifully in this recipe. When sprinkled on top of the marshmallows, the petals give them a charming, rustic look that’s perfect for a special occasion. As the marshmallows set, the dried petals absorb some of the marshmallow’s sweetness, becoming a tender addition to each bite.

Creating the Perfect Texture

Achieving the ideal texture is crucial when making marshmallows. The goal is to create a light, airy marshmallow that is soft yet sturdy enough to hold its shape. This is achieved by carefully controlling the temperature of the sugar syrup and whipping the gelatin mixture until it becomes thick and fluffy. When the sugar syrup reaches the right temperature, it is added to the gelatin, and the mixture is whipped at medium speed until it transforms into a voluminous, smooth paste. This stage is crucial in creating that perfect marshmallow texture. If the mixture is over-whisked, the marshmallows may become too dense, while under-whisking may result in a sticky or runny consistency. Patience is key when making marshmallows, as taking the time to achieve the right consistency will ensure the best results.

Setting the Marshmallows

Once the marshmallow mixture is prepared and poured into the baking pan, it must set to solidify into the familiar marshmallow texture. Allowing the marshmallows to set uncovered for several hours or overnight gives them time to firm up and become perfectly sliceable. This step is important, as rushing it can result in marshmallows that are too sticky to cut or won’t hold their shape. When the marshmallows are ready to be cut, it is essential to use a well-oiled knife to avoid sticking, and dusting your hands and the knife with powdered sugar ensures smooth cutting. This extra step makes the marshmallows easier to handle and helps keep them from becoming too messy.

Serving Rose-Flavored Marshmallows

Rose-flavored homemade marshmallows are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a festive touch, they can be displayed at bridal showers, baby showers, or birthday parties, where their elegant appearance and unique flavor are sure to impress guests. They make a perfect addition to a hot chocolate bar, adding a touch of sweetness and flavor to the rich, warm drink. These marshmallows can also be used as a garnish for cakes, cupcakes, or desserts like panna cotta or fruit salads, providing a delicate floral note that elevates the overall flavor. Alternatively, they can be enjoyed as a simple treat on their own, paired with a cup of tea or coffee.

Health Considerations

While rose-flavored homemade marshmallows are undoubtedly a treat best enjoyed in moderation, they do offer some health benefits compared to store-bought marshmallows. Since these marshmallows are made from scratch, you have control over the ingredients, and you can choose to reduce the amount of sugar or use alternative sweeteners if desired. Additionally, rose water itself is known for its soothing properties and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is often added to beverages for its calming effects, making it a nice addition to this recipe. However, it’s important to remember that marshmallows, even homemade ones, are still high in sugar and should be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, rose-flavored homemade marshmallows are a charming and delicious treat that adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. Their light, fluffy texture combined with the delicate floral flavor of rose water and the visual appeal of dried rose petals makes them a standout dessert. Easy to make with just a few ingredients, these marshmallows are a great way to impress guests and create a memorable treat for special celebrations. Whether served on their own, in hot chocolate, or as part of a larger dessert spread, these marshmallows are sure to be a hit. Try making them for your next event, and enjoy the sweet indulgence of these homemade treats.