Marshmallows have come a long way since their ancient Egyptian origins, where they were made from the marsh mallow plant, nuts, and honey. Nowadays, these fluffy delights are more commonly made with gelatin, a product derived from animal parts. However, if you’re seeking a plant-based alternative, there are tasty vegan options available.
Vegan marshmallows can be a delicious treat for those adhering to a plant-based or gluten-free diet. In this article, we will explore some of the best vegan-friendly marshmallow brands on the market, as well as how to make your own vegan marshmallows at home using various ingredients.
Key Takeaways
Vegan marshmallows offer plant-based and gluten-free alternatives to traditional marshmallows.
A variety of vegan-friendly brands provide delicious marshmallow options.
Vegan marshmallows can be made at home using ingredients such as aquafaba, pea protein, and agar powder.
What are marshmallows?
Marshmallows are a delightful, soft, and foamy type of candy created by whipping together ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, water, and gelatin. This fluffy sweet treat often comes in a white cube shape, which is achieved by piping the mixture through tubes and cutting it into equal-sized pieces. They come in various sizes, with smaller ones typically used in desserts or atop hot cocoa, and larger ones perfect for making s’mores. Enjoy the fluffy goodness of marshmallows, crafted with sugar like cane sugar, and savor the taste!
Are Marshmallows Vegan-friendly?
Typically, the marshmallows you find in stores contain gelatin, an animal protein derived from the skin and bones of cows and pigs. Hence, regular marshmallows are not considered vegan. However, there’s good news for those craving a vegan marshmallow option!
Vegan marshmallows do exist, and they swap out gelatin for plant-based alternatives like carrageenan, extracted from red edible seaweed, or agar agar, which comes from red algae and has a similar consistency to gelatin. These substitutes let you enjoy dairy-free, cruelty-free marshmallow treats without compromising on taste or texture!
Utilizing Vegan Marshmallows
Vegan marshmallows can effortlessly substitute conventional marshmallows in various recipes. When camping, use them with graham crackers to create tasty s’mores by roasting them over an open flame. This classic treat has been adored since the 1920s, originating from the Girl Scout Handbook.
Apart from s’mores, vegan marshmallows can be included in other delightful recipes. Top off your ice cream or hot chocolate with them and some dairy-free whipped cream. For a popular, easy-to-make treat, mix them into rice crispy cakes, which are enjoyed by both kids and adults. Alternatively, combine vegan marshmallows with dairy-free chocolate and peppermint to make a luscious vegan rocky road.
Toasted vegan marshmallows also make a scrumptious addition to milkshakes, contributing a creamy texture. For a more indulgent option, try making gooey vegan s’mores brownies.
However, if cooking or baking is not on your agenda, don’t worry – vegan marshmallows are equally satisfying on their own as a snack straight from the bag. Just grab a handful and savor their delicious, guilt-free goodness.
Vegan Marshmallow Brands
Are you craving marshmallows without animal byproducts? Give Yummallo and Goodland Farms a try. They provide delicious vegan options for marshmallow lovers. Enjoy guilt-free snacking with these tasty brands!
1 Yummallo
Yummallo, a top marshmallow brand, delights your taste buds with a variety of unique flavors, such as Fruit Mix, Spaghetti Marshmallows, Unicorn Poop, and Spicy & Sweet. Regrettably, they haven’t released vegan alternatives for these treats. However, for vegans seeking an indulgence, Yummallo now offers two standard marshmallow options made with carrageen: regular size and tiny. You can find both of these delightful vegan marshmallows at Walmart. Enjoy this soft, sweet treat while supporting your vegan lifestyle!
2 Dandies
Looking for more than just a standard marshmallow? Dandies offers a variety of flavors to suit your taste. You can find vanilla, maple, pumpkin, and peppermint options, all vegan and made with carrageen. Best of all, they’re allergen-free. In the US, you can easily find Dandies vegan marshmallows at retailers like Thrive Market, Whole Foods Market, and Wegmans. Enjoy these delightfully flavored marshmallows without any worries!
3 Freedom Mallows
In 2013, after 10 years of research, Freedom Mallows, a British brand, blessed the world with their vegan and allergen-free marshmallows. The collection has grown to offer Regular Vanilla Mallows, Mini Pink & White Vanilla Mallows, marshmallow-stuffed chocolate bars, and even hot chocolate and toasting kits. To treat yourself to these delightful sweets, simply visit the brand’s website, browse UK retailers, or find them on Amazon. Enjoy the freedom of indulging in these tasty marshmallows!
4. Favorite Marshmallows at Trader Joe’s
If you happen to live near one of over 560 Trader Joe’s stores across the US, you’re in luck for finding gelatin-free marshmallows! While not every marshmallow variety is vegan (for instance, Peanut Butter Cocoa contains milk), many options like the Peppermint Minis are. So next time you’re at Trader Joe’s, be sure to check out their delicious vegan marshmallow options!
5 Tempting Mallow Puffs
Mallow Puffs, a Belgian brand, has transformed vegan marshmallows by immersing them in luscious dark Belgian chocolate. To top it off, the chocolate is Rainforest Alliance certified. Pamper your taste buds with three scrumptious flavors: Vanilla, Raspberry, and Salted Caramel. They even offer Mallow Puff chocolate bars for an extra treat during movie nights.
You can find Mallow Puffs in various Belgian and UK retailers. For those in the US, you can order these delightful treats online from stores like Worldwide Chocolate. Enjoy!
How to Create Vegan Marshmallows
To make your own vegan marshmallows, you need a few key ingredients like water, vanilla extract, cream of tartar, and powdered sugar mixed with cornstarch. Tools like a hand mixer, parchment paper, and a candy thermometer are essential. Various recipes are available, offering the opportunity to create homemade vegan marshmallows perfectly tailored to your preferences. Enjoy crafting these delightful treats in the comfort of your home.
1 Vegan Marshmallows with Aquafaba
Aquafaba, also known as chickpea water, is a fantastic ingredient for creating homemade vegan marshmallows. As a substitute for egg whites, it provides the right texture and consistency. Combine agar powder instead of gelatin with sugar, cornstarch, cream of tartar, and vanilla extract. Once mixed, let your marshmallows set for about two hours, then bake them in the oven for an hour. You’ll be left with soft, fluffy, and delightful vegan marshmallows perfect for your favorite treats! Enjoy your creation!
2 Easy-to-Make Vegan Marshmallows with Pea Protein
In just about an hour, you can enjoy soft and fluffy vegan marshmallows using pea protein powder. Combining pea protein powder with xanthan gum, tapioca flour, sugar, baking powder, and agar powder creates the perfect marshmallow texture. The process is simple – only 20 minutes of preparation and roughly an hour of setting time to achieve these delicious treats.
3 Vegan Marshmallows with Agar Powder and Dairy-Free Butter
This scrumptious recipe combines agar powder and vegan butter to create a satisfying gelatin-free alternative. Alongside sugar and corn syrup, these marshmallows can even be infused with a touch of peppermint extract to add a refreshing twist. Although the process is relatively simple, be sure to allow ample time for your creations to set, as they require at least 12 hours, plus one additional hour in the refrigerator. Therefore, it’s advisable to prepare them well in advance rather than during a last-minute rush. Once your vegan marshmallows are complete, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy their squishy and delectable texture!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies produce vegan marshmallows?
There are several brands that offer vegan marshmallows, such as Dandies, Trader Joe’s, and Freedom Confectionery. These companies ensure that their products are free from animal-derived ingredients, including gelatin.
Where can I find marshmallows without gelatin?
You can find gelatin-free marshmallows at select grocery stores, specialty shops, or online retailers. Many natural food stores and vegan-friendly shops often carry vegan marshmallows as well.
Are most marshmallows free from dairy?
Yes, marshmallows are typically dairy-free, but it’s always a good idea to check the label for potential allergens or hidden dairy ingredients.
Could you suggest a recipe for making vegan marshmallows?
Certainly! Try this simple vegan marshmallow recipe:
1/2 cup aquafaba (liquid from a can of chickpeas)
1/4 tsp cream of tartar
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp agar-agar powder
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1 tbsp vanilla extract
Whip aquafaba and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
In a saucepan, combine agar-agar, water, and corn syrup. Boil for 5 minutes.
Slowly pour the hot syrup into the whipped aquafaba, beating continuously.
Add vanilla extract and beat until fully combined.
Spread the mixture in a greased and sugared pan, then let it set for at least 3 hours.
Cut into cubes and enjoy your homemade vegan marshmallows!
What gluten-free vegan marshmallow options are available?
Most vegan marshmallows are naturally gluten-free, as they don’t contain any wheat or gluten-derived ingredients. However, it’s essential to check the labels for possible cross-contamination or additional allergens.
Which retailers stock vegan marshmallows?
You can find vegan marshmallows at stores like Whole Foods Market, Trader Joe’s, and many natural food stores. Also, online retailers such as Amazon often carry a wide selection of vegan marshmallow options.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the aquafaba and cream of tartar with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Cook until a candy thermometer reads 240°F (115°C).
With the mixer running on low, slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the aquafaba. Increase the speed to high and beat for 10-15 minutes, until the mixture is thick and glossy.
Beat in the vanilla extract.
Dust a baking sheet with cornstarch. Use a piping bag or spoon to drop dollops of the marshmallow mixture onto the sheet.
Let the marshmallows dry at room temperature for 6-8 hours, or overnight.
Once dry, dust the marshmallows with more cornstarch and store in an airtight container.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
