Marshmallow Substitutes
When you’re looking for marshmallow substitutes that are as wonderful as the real deal, you can choose from this complete list of the very best alternatives! Many of these marshmallow substitute options are likely in your pantry and ready to use in any recipe!
Marshmallows are a classic pantry staple that can be used in a variety of recipes and desserts. But sometimes you need a tasty alternative to marshmallows. Here are some of the best marshmallow substitutes to use in your baking recipes and desserts.
1. Marshmallow Fluff (aka Marshmallow Spread)
If you want a lighter, fluffier marshmallow consistency, marshmallow fluff is a great option. It’s perfect for adding to cakes and other desserts.
Do keep in mind that while this is the best easy to use marshmallow substitute, it will not have the same structure as a marshmallow.
Make your own homemade marshmallow fluff with this easy recipe:
- 1/3 cup water
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 3/4 cup light corn syrup (or honey)
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Combine water, sugar, and corn syrup in a saucepan and stir to combine. Set aside your spoon and do not stir from here. Lift and swirl the pan to prevent burning instead.
Heat the syrup over medium-high heat with a candy thermometer placed on the side of the pan (and off the bottom of your saucepan). You’ll warm the syrup until it reaches 225°F (107°C).
Meanwhile, your stand mixer or mixing bowl and utensils should be absolutely grease and water free to combine the egg whites and cream of tartar. You can wipe your bowl and utensils clean with vinegar or lemon juice to be certain that they are cleared of grease (preventing any issues while whipping the egg whites to soft peaks).
Once your egg whites reach soft peaks (about 3-4 minutes), your sugar syrup should be approximately 240°F (116°C). Set your mixer to medium speed and remove the syrup from heat.
Very carefully pour the syrup into the meringue, making sure that the pour is slow and steady and your ribbon of syrup is pouring into the center of the bowl. Once all of the syrup has been poured, you can increase the mixer speed to medium-high and until the marshmallow fluff is fluffy and thickened.
Continue whipping for 6-7 minutes then pour in the vanilla extract. Whip until your marshmallow fluff is completely cooled then use in an equal amount as any marshmallows called for in your recipe.
2. Meringue
Meringue is another light and fluffy option that can be used as a marshmallow substitute. It’s also great for creating stiff peaks in meringue pies and other desserts.
3. Whipped Cream
For a richer, more decadent marshmallow substitute, try whipped cream. It’s perfect for adding to chocolate desserts and other rich recipes.
4. Yogurt
If you’re looking for a marshmallow substitute that’s healthier, yogurt is a great option. It’s perfect for adding to fruit salads and other light desserts.
5. Gelatin
For a marshmallow substitute that will give your desserts a firm texture, gelatin is a good option. It’s perfect for making homemade marshmallows, jello, and other firm desserts.
6. Zephyr
Don’t know what zephyr is? It’s a delightful Russian candy that works exceptionally well as a marshmallow alternative in any recipe.
Zephyr is very close to being a marshmallow, with the exception of having egg as an ingredient. Additionally, most zephyr contain some fruit syrup or puree, typically in a berry flavor.
7. Vanilla Pudding
This family favorite dessert mix comes in handy for whipping up desserts, even when you need marshmallows! Use cooked or instant Jello to replace marshmallows as needed in any recipe.
Keep in mind that Jell-o pudding is much more dense than marshmallows. You may want to start with 3/4 cup of pudding for each 1 cup marshmallows.
8. Ice Cream
The best part about swapping ice cream for marshmallows? That you can get really creative and use whatever flavors you want! Melted (or softened) ice cream can be stirred into your recipes for baked goods with wonderfully tasty results.
9. Pastry Cream (Crème Pâtissière)
I’m a fan of pastry cream since I love making homemade tarts, so this is an easy go-to marshmallow alternative in my home. It’s easy to make from powdered products that you can store away for emergencies (and sweet tooth cravings)!
10. More Easy Marshmallow Substitutes
- Sugar-Free Marshmallows
- Gelatin-Free Marshmallows
- Vegan Marshmallows
- Vanilla Jello Pudding
- Marshmallow Protein Bar
- Vanilla Cream Filling (from Oreos and similar sandwich cookies)
Pick Your Perfect Marshmallow Alternative!
With so many marshmallow substitutes to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your recipe or dessert!
