I love making these deep fried marshmallows when I want a quick and fun dessert that feels like a carnival treat at home. The outside turns golden and crispy while the inside becomes perfectly soft and gooey. Every bite gives me that warm, sweet melt-in-my-mouth texture that makes this recipe hard to resist.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Large marshmallows (as many as I want to fry)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar (for dusting, optional)
Directions
I start by heating oil in a deep fryer or a large heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). I make sure there is enough oil so the marshmallows can float freely.
In one bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, I whisk the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. I slowly combine the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until I get a smooth batter that reminds me of pancake batter.
I skewer each marshmallow with a toothpick or small fork to make dipping easier. Then I dip each marshmallow into the batter, coating it completely.
I carefully place the coated marshmallow into the hot oil and fry it for about 1–2 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. I avoid overcrowding the pot and fry in batches if needed.
Once golden, I remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain. While they are still warm, I dust them with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar. I like to serve them immediately while the inside is perfectly gooey.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings, depending on how many marshmallows I decide to fry.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10–15 minutes (depending on batches)
Total time: about 20–25 minutes
Variations
I sometimes stuff the marshmallows with small pieces of chocolate before dipping them in batter for a surprise melted center.
I also like to roll the fried marshmallows in cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar for a churro-style flavor.
When I want extra indulgence, I serve them with warm chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.
For a fun twist, I occasionally add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter itself.
Storage/Reheating
I prefer eating these fresh because that is when they taste best. If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day.
To reheat, I place them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. I avoid using the microwave because it can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
I prefer making the batter right before frying for the best texture, but I can prepare it up to an hour in advance and keep it in the refrigerator.
Why is my marshmallow leaking out while frying?
I find this usually happens if the batter coating is too thin or uneven. I make sure each marshmallow is fully coated before frying.
What oil works best for frying?
I like using vegetable, canola, or peanut oil because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Can I air fry these instead?
I find that traditional deep frying gives the best crispy texture. Air frying may not create the same even golden crust.
How do I keep them crispy longer?
I avoid stacking them while hot and let them drain properly on paper towels. I serve them immediately for the best crispiness.
Conclusion
I enjoy making deep fried marshmallows whenever I want a playful and comforting dessert. The crispy exterior and gooey center always make them a hit. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, I can easily recreate a fair-style favorite right at home.
📖 Recipe:
Deep Fried Marshmallows
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy on the outside and warm, gooey on the inside, these deep fried marshmallows are a fun carnival-style dessert made easily at home with a simple batter and quick fry.
Ingredients
Large marshmallows (about 20-24, as desired)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C), ensuring there is enough oil for the marshmallows to float freely.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth, pancake-like batter forms.
- Skewer each marshmallow with a toothpick or small fork for easy dipping.
- Dip each marshmallow into the batter, coating completely.
- Carefully place coated marshmallows into the hot oil and fry for 1–2 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar while still warm and serve immediately.
Notes
For a surprise center, stuff marshmallows with small chocolate pieces before dipping in batter.
Add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for extra flavor.
Serve with warm chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.
Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes; avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 5-6 fried marshmallows)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
