Marshmallow Frosting Recipe

If you’re a fan of sweet, fluffy toppings that melt perfectly on your desserts, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Marshmallow Frosting. It tastes amazingly like marshmallow creme, but with the charm of homemade goodness that you can whip up in no time. This frosting is light, airy, and has just the right amount of sweetness to elevate cupcakes, layer cakes, or even simple cookies into an irresistible treat. Trust me, once you try this marshmallow frosting recipe, it will easily become your go-to for any dessert that calls for that classic, cloud-like finish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this marshmallow frosting lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role. These five essentials work together to create the perfect balance of texture, sweetness, and stability, ensuring the frosting turns out fluffy and glossy every single time.

• 5 large egg whites: The base of the frosting, providing structure and a silky texture when whipped.
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar: Helps stabilize the egg whites, giving your frosting that beautiful stiff peak hold.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness by adding a subtle depth to the flavor.
• 2 cups granulated sugar, divided: Sweetens the frosting and when cooked into syrup, gives it that glossy, marshmallow-like finish.
• 2/3 cup water: Combines with sugar to form a hot syrup that integrates smoothly into the meringue.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting flavor that rounds out the sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Marshmallow Frosting

Step 1: Whip the Egg Whites

Start by placing the egg whites, cream of tartar, and a pinch of salt into a large mixing bowl. Using a mixer on medium speed, whip the mixture until it becomes foamy. This initial whipping is crucial to incorporate air, setting the stage for that fluffy texture we want. It’s the foundation of our marshmallow frosting.

Step 2: Slowly Incorporate Half the Sugar

Once you have foamy egg whites, gradually add 1 cup of the granulated sugar in a slow and steady stream—about a teaspoon at a time. This slow addition helps the sugar dissolve properly, ensuring your frosting won’t be grainy. Keep whipping until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks, showing that it’s ready for the next step.

Step 3: Add the Vanilla Extract

Next, whip in the vanilla extract gently. This step not only adds flavor but keeps the meringue smooth and luscious. Continue stirring on low speed as you prepare the hot sugar syrup to be combined next.

Step 4: Prepare the Hot Sugar Syrup

In a small pot, combine the remaining 1 cup of sugar with the water. Heat over medium until the syrup reaches 235 degrees Fahrenheit. Making sure to measure the temperature is key here, as it guarantees the syrup will integrate perfectly without crystallizing, which is what gives the marshmallow frosting its signature glossy finish.

Step 5: Combine Syrup with Meringue

Carefully add the hot sugar syrup to the meringue in a slow and steady stream while keeping the mixer running on low speed. This step requires patience, but it ensures the syrup blends flawlessly with the egg whites to create that fluffy, stable marshmallow frosting texture.

Step 6: Whip to Glossy Stiff Peaks

After all the syrup has been incorporated, crank the mixer up to high and whip until the frosting becomes stiff, glossy, and holds its shape beautifully. Now your marshmallow frosting is ready to spread, pipe, or dollop onto your favorite desserts!

How to Serve Marshmallow Frosting

Garnishes

This marshmallow frosting is a perfect canvas for all sorts of tasty adornments. Try sprinkling toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or colorful sprinkles to add a delightful crunch and pop of color that will make your desserts even more inviting. The frosting’s light texture pairs beautifully with these added textures and flavors.

Side Dishes

While marshmallow frosting is mostly seen topping sweets, you can serve it alongside simple fruit tarts, warm brownie bites, or even dolloped with fresh berries. Its sweetness complements tangy or rich desserts perfectly, making every bite a joyful contrast of flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your marshmallow frosting display up a notch by piping it into charming swirls or rustic peaks. You can torch the top lightly to create a caramelized finish reminiscent of s’mores, or use it as a dip for graham crackers and sliced apples for a fun dessert experience. Its versatility makes it a crowd-pleaser at any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover marshmallow frosting, keep it stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. After that, the texture may start to soften or weep. For best results, use it fresh, but short-term storage works well for quick plans.

Freezing

You can freeze marshmallow frosting in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then give it a quick whip to restore some of its original fluffiness before serving.

Reheating

Marshmallow frosting is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you find it a bit stiff after storage, gently warm it by placing the container over a bowl of warm water and stirring until smooth. Avoid direct heat to prevent melting or separating.

FAQs

Can I use pasteurized egg whites for marshmallow frosting?

Absolutely! Pasteurized egg whites are a great option, especially if you’re concerned about consuming raw eggs. They work just as well for whipping into stiff peaks and will give you the same fluffy marshmallow frosting texture.

What can I substitute for cream of tartar?

If you don’t have cream of tartar on hand, a few drops of lemon juice or white vinegar will do the trick. They act as stabilizers to help your egg whites hold their volume and stiffness.

Is this marshmallow frosting stable in warm weather?

While this frosting is quite stable thanks to the cooked sugar syrup, extreme heat can make it soften or melt. It’s best to keep frosted desserts cooled and serve them soon after decorating during hot days.

Can I flavor the marshmallow frosting differently?

Definitely! While vanilla is classic, you can add almond extract, citrus zest, or even a splash of coffee or cocoa for creative twists. Just add these during the vanilla step to mix in the flavor evenly.

How much frosting does this recipe make?

This recipe yields about 4 cups of marshmallow frosting, which is enough to generously frost 24 cupcakes or a standard two-layer cake, making it perfect for both small and large baking projects.

Final Thoughts

There is just something magical about homemade marshmallow frosting — it’s fluffy, sweet, and light as air, bringing a nostalgic yet fresh vibe to your desserts. I can’t recommend trying this recipe enough whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out. Once you experience how effortlessly this frosting elevates your baked goods, it will definitely become your favorite secret weapon in the kitchen. So grab those ingredients, and get ready to whip up some sweetness that everyone will adore!