Peppermint Hot Chocolate with Homemade Vanilla Marshmallows

I’m not sure if there is anything more comforting in the winter than a hot chocolate with fluffy marshmallows! These marshmallows are super easy to make and are way better than storebought!

Homemade Vanilla Marshmallows

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp gelatin

• ¾  cups water, divided

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (can sub cornstarch or agar agar powder)

• 1/8 tsp salt

• 1 tsp vanilla extract or paste (I used Trader Joes Vanilla Bourbon Paste)

Directions:

1. Lightly butter and dust a 9" square baking pan with powdered sugar. If you want large marshmallows, you can use a bread pan.

2. In a large bowl, mix the gelatin and 1/4 cup water together. Set aside for 10 minutes to thicken up.

3. Place the remaining 1/2 cup of water and sugar in a deep saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar is dissolved.

4. Bring mixture to a boil for a few minutes.

5. Slowly and carefully pour the hot mixture into the gelatin and beat on low speed for 2 minutes, then increased speed to high for 8-10 minutes, until doubled in volume and super fluffy. Add the vanilla and salt half way through whipping.

6. Pour into the prepared pan and smooth out with a spatula. Dust with more powdered sugar then refrigerate for 2-3 hours until set. Slice into individual marshmallows and enjoy!

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

• 1 cup of your favourite milk (I like whole, cashew or coconut as they are the creamiest)

• 2 large squares of dark chocolate (I use the big Lindt pieces)

• A few drops of peppermint extract

• Pinch of salt

Heat all ingredients on medium heat on the stove and whisk until hot and frothy. You can microwave it as well for about one minute and 20 seconds and then whisk. 

Make sure to tag me @miaharrisnutrition if you make this!