Crispy, Gooey Deep Fried Marshmallows: Your Ultimate Guide to a Perfect Fairground Treat at Home

Prepare to delight your taste buds with the irresistible magic of Deep Fried Marshmallows – the ultimate fair-style treat you can easily whip up right in your own kitchen! Imagine a golden, crispy shell giving way to an incredibly soft, warm, and wonderfully gooey marshmallow center. This surprisingly simple recipe promises a dessert experience that’s both nostalgic and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re planning a fun party, a cozy movie night, or simply craving a unique sweet indulgence, these golden-brown bites are guaranteed to be a hit.

Are you looking for a dessert that offers an exciting contrast of textures and an explosion of sweet flavor? Look no further than deep fried marshmallows. This delightful treat transforms ordinary marshmallows into something extraordinary, making them perfect for any occasion that calls for a touch of fun and indulgence.

Recreating the carnival atmosphere at home has never been easier. These golden, pillow-soft delights are not only simple to prepare but also bring a joyous, nostalgic flair to any dessert spread. They’re a fantastic way to impress guests, entertain children, or simply treat yourself to a moment of pure bliss.

If you’re a fan of delicious fried desserts, you’ll also adore making Deep Fried Twinkies, Funnel Cake Bites, and Deep Fried S’mores. For those exploring more regional delights, check out 31 Easy Texas Desserts for more inspiration.

Marshmallows are a beloved ingredient for us, and we frequently use them in various creative ways, such as in our Marshmallow Frosting, Marshmallow Fondant Recipe, and delightful Marshmallow Cookies.

Why We Love This Recipe

Deep fried marshmallows are a revelation for anyone who loves sweet treats. The allure begins with the incredible textural contrast: a delightfully crisp, golden-brown exterior gives way to an unbelievably soft, warm, and stretching marshmallow interior. It’s a sensory experience that delivers that classic fairground indulgence directly to your home kitchen.

One of the primary reasons this recipe is so beloved is its sheer simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients – many of which you likely already have on hand – you can create a dessert that tastes gourmet but requires minimal effort. This makes it a perfect last-minute treat for unexpected guests or a spontaneous craving.

Beyond the ease of preparation, deep fried marshmallows offer immense versatility. They’re a fantastic centerpiece for parties, a fun activity to make with kids, or a comforting dessert to enjoy on a quiet evening. The warm, melty core paired with the sweet, slightly savory batter creates a flavor profile that truly hits all the right sweet spots. Plus, the ability to customize them with various toppings means you can tailor each bite to your preference, ensuring everyone finds something to love. They bring a touch of playful elegance to any dessert table, making them a consistently crowd-pleasing option.

Ingredients

Creating these delightful deep fried marshmallows requires only a handful of readily available ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Jumbo Marshmallows. For the best results, opt for large, fluffy marshmallows, often labeled as “Jumbo” or “Campfire” marshmallows. Their larger size allows for a more substantial gooey center and easier handling during the frying process. Avoid using mini marshmallows, as they tend to melt too quickly.
• Pancake Mix. A quality pancake mix forms the perfect crispy batter for your marshmallows. You can use any brand you prefer, whether it’s a buttermilk blend for a slightly tangy note or a complete pancake mix for ultimate convenience. This ingredient significantly simplifies the batter preparation, making the recipe quick and foolproof.
• Large Egg. An egg is crucial for binding the batter ingredients together, ensuring a cohesive and sturdy coating that adheres well to the marshmallows. It also contributes to the golden color and a richer flavor of the fried shell.
• Milk. Whole milk is recommended for its richness, which translates into a more luxurious and flavorful batter. However, you can use any type of milk you have on hand, including skim, almond, or oat milk, adjusting the consistency as needed. The milk helps achieve the ideal batter thickness for perfect coating.
• Vegetable Oil. You’ll need a small amount of vegetable oil for the batter itself, as indicated in the recipe card, and a generous amount for deep frying. For frying, choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, to ensure proper cooking without burning and to achieve that desirable golden crispness.
• Sprinkles. While entirely optional, sprinkles add a festive touch and a pop of color, making the deep fried marshmallows even more appealing, especially for parties or when serving to kids. They also provide a subtle textural contrast.

You’ll find the complete, detailed recipe with exact measurements and step-by-step instructions at the bottom of this page.

How to Make Deep Fried Marshmallows

Making deep fried marshmallows is a straightforward process, but paying attention to a few key details will ensure perfectly crispy and gooey results every time. Follow these simple steps for a truly unforgettable treat:

• Step 1. Prepare the Hot Oil. Begin by heating about 3 inches of high smoke point vegetable oil in a deep pot, Dutch oven, or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. It’s crucial to use a deep vessel to prevent oil splatters. For precise results, use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature, aiming for approximately 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the correct oil temperature is vital for achieving a crispy exterior without burning or making the marshmallows excessively greasy.

Step 2. Combine the Batter. While the oil is heating, prepare your batter. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix, one large egg, milk, and 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil. Whisk all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. The batter should have a consistency similar to that of regular pancake batter – thick enough to coat the marshmallows well but not so thick that it becomes clumpy. Adjust with a tiny bit more milk or pancake mix if needed.

Step 3. Coat the Marshmallows. Carefully dip each jumbo marshmallow into the prepared batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Use a fork or tongs to gently submerge and retrieve the marshmallow. Allow any excess batter to drip off back into the bowl. A thin, even coating is what you’re aiming for to get that perfect crispy shell.

Step 4. Carefully Place in Oil. Once your oil reaches the desired temperature (350°F or 175°C), carefully lower the batter-coated marshmallows into the hot oil. Do this gently to avoid splashes. Fry only a few marshmallows at a time to prevent overcrowding the pot, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy marshmallows. Overcrowding can also make them stick together.

Step 5. Cook Until Golden and Drain. Fry the marshmallows for approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown on all sides. Use a slotted spoon or spider tool to carefully turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Be vigilant, as marshmallows cook very quickly! Once golden, promptly remove them from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. The paper towels will absorb any excess oil, ensuring your marshmallows are perfectly crisp and not greasy. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Serving Ideas

Deep fried marshmallows are wonderfully delicious on their own, but they truly shine when paired with complementary toppings. Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your deep fried marshmallow experience:

• S’mores. Transform your fried marshmallows into an even more decadent treat! Simply place a warm, deep-fried marshmallow between two graham crackers and add a square of chocolate. The residual heat from the marshmallow will gently melt the chocolate, creating an extraordinary s’mores experience.
• Chocolate Syrup. A classic choice, a generous drizzle of Hot Fudge Sauce Recipe or your favorite chocolate syrup adds a rich, sweet counterpoint to the fried marshmallow. Experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate drizzles.
• Whipped Cream. For a light and airy touch, generously top each fried marshmallow with a dollop of Homemade Whipped Cream. The cool cream perfectly balances the warm, gooey marshmallow.
• Sprinkles. Especially popular with kids, a colorful assortment of sprinkles adds a fun, festive look and a delightful crunch. Choose sprinkles that match your party theme or simply go for a vibrant rainbow mix.
• Caramel Sauce. A decadent drizzle of warm caramel sauce will add a buttery, sweet depth that pairs beautifully with the marshmallow’s flavor.
• Powdered Sugar. For a simple yet elegant finish, a dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a beautiful presentation, reminiscent of beignets.
• Cinnamon Sugar. Combine granulated sugar with a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced coating. This works wonderfully for a fall-themed treat.
• Crushed Cookies. Think crushed Oreos, graham cracker crumbs, or even crushed Biscoff cookies for an added layer of flavor and texture.
• Fruit Purees. A fresh raspberry or strawberry puree can add a bright, tart contrast to the sweetness of the marshmallow.
• Ice Cream. Serve your warm fried marshmallows alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful hot-and-cold dessert sensation.

Storage

For the absolute best taste and texture, deep fried marshmallows are unequivocally best enjoyed fresh, immediately after they’ve been cooked and drained. The crispy batter and gooey interior are at their peak just moments out of the fryer. As they cool and are exposed to air, the crispy coating will inevitably begin to soften, and the marshmallow inside will lose its ultra-gooey consistency.

Because of this rapid change in texture, we strongly advise against storing deep fried marshmallows for later use. Reheating them typically doesn’t restore their original crispness, and the marshmallow can become tough or simply melt too much. Embrace the moment and savor these delightful treats while they are perfectly warm, crispy, and gooey!

Pro Tips

To ensure your deep fried marshmallows turn out perfectly crispy on the outside and wonderfully gooey on the inside, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Choose the Right Marshmallow Size. For ideal frying, jumbo or large-sized marshmallows are highly recommended. Their larger surface area allows for a good coating of batter, and their volume ensures a significant gooey center once heated. Mini marshmallows melt too quickly and can be challenging to coat and fry without them disappearing into the oil.
• Heat Oil Properly. This is perhaps the most crucial tip for any deep-fried recipe. The oil should be heated to a precise temperature of 350°F (175°C) before you introduce the marshmallows. If the oil is too cold, the batter will absorb too much oil, resulting in a greasy, soggy product. If the oil is too hot, the batter will burn quickly on the outside before the marshmallow inside has a chance to melt properly, leading to a burnt exterior and a less-than-gooey center. Use a deep-fry thermometer for accuracy.
• Use Oil with a High Smoke Point. Always opt for cooking oils that can withstand high temperatures without breaking down or imparting undesirable flavors. Excellent choices include vegetable oil, canola oil, and peanut oil. These oils are neutral in flavor and perfect for deep frying. Avoid olive oil or butter, which have lower smoke points.
• Turn Occasionally While Cooking. Marshmallows fry very quickly, typically in 30 seconds to 1 minute. To ensure that the batter cooks evenly and develops a uniform golden-brown crust on all sides, gently turn the marshmallows using a slotted spoon or tongs a few times during the short cooking process.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot. Fry only a few marshmallows at a time, leaving ample space between them. Overcrowding will significantly drop the oil’s temperature, leading to greasy results and potentially making the marshmallows stick together. Work in batches for the best outcome.
• Prepare Toppings in Advance. Since deep fried marshmallows are best served immediately, have all your desired toppings (whipped cream, chocolate syrup, sprinkles) ready and waiting. This way, you can serve them while they are perfectly warm and gooey.
• Drain on a Wire Rack. After removing the marshmallows from the paper towel-lined plate, transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around them, helping to maintain their crispness as they cool slightly before serving, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.
• Test the Oil Temperature. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a tiny bit of batter into it. If it sizzles and floats to the top immediately, the oil is ready. If it sinks and doesn’t sizzle, the oil is too cold. If it burns instantly, it’s too hot.

More Deep Fried Desserts

If you’ve fallen in love with the delightful experience of deep fried marshmallows, you’re in for a treat! There’s a whole world of incredible deep-fried desserts waiting to be explored. These recipes take ordinary ingredients and transform them into extraordinary, crispy, and sweet indulgences, often reminiscent of classic fairground favorites. Here are some more irresistible fried dessert ideas to try:

• Deep Fried Pop Tarts Recipe
• Deep Fried Honey Buns
• Fried Cookie Dough
• Deep Fried Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
• Easy Deep Fried Oreos
• Funnel Cake Recipe

We encourage you to embark on this culinary adventure and make these amazing Deep Fried Marshmallows. Once you try them and experience the crispy, gooey perfection, please come back and leave a comment sharing your thoughts. We love hearing about your experiences and seeing how you customize your treats!