Description
Have you ever wondered why the frosting from a jar never quite captures that magical, cloud-like puffiness of a real marshmallow? This homemade version is a game-changer. It is fluffy, glossy, holds its shape perfectly, and has a nostalgic flavor that reminds you of campfire s’mores. It is much lighter than buttercream and naturally fat-free!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large egg whites (at room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup (substitute with agave nectar or honey)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (or 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice)
- 1.5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Set Up a Double Boiler: Fill a small saucepan with about one inch of water and bring to a gentle simmer. Find a heat-proof glass or stainless steel bowl that fits snugly over the top without touching the water.
- Combine Ingredients: In the heat-proof bowl, whisk together the egg whites, sugar, corn syrup, water, salt, and cream of tartar until slightly foamy.
- The Heating Process: Place the bowl over the simmering water. Whisk constantly but gently for 3-5 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved (160°F on a candy thermometer) and the mixture is smooth.
- Time to Whip: Remove from heat. Using a mixer on medium-high speed, beat the mixture for 7-10 minutes. It will turn from clear to a bright, snowy white.
- Final Peak: Continue whipping until the frosting is thick, glossy, and holds a stiff peak. Add the vanilla extract during the last minute of whipping.
Notes
Make sure your cupcakes or cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting. For a professional look, use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the edges for a toasted marshmallow flavor. This frosting is best enjoyed the day it is made as it is at its absolute peak volume right after whipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Double Boiler
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake portion
- Calories: 65
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg