When you think of marshmallows, you might picture campfires and s’mores, but the modern marshmallow cafe is proving they’re so much more! From gourmet recipes to aesthetic treats, marshmallow cafes are taking the world by storm, offering Instagram-worthy delights and irresistible flavors. Here’s how these sweet spots are staying trendy while delivering the best marshmallow experiences you’ll ever taste.
1. DIY Marshmallow Recipes
Marshmallow cafes are cashing in on the homemade trend, allowing you and your family to create your own marshmallow treats. These simple recipes can use a variety of bases (classic marshmallows, flavored options, or vegan alternatives) and toppings like crushed cookies, sprinkles, and candy.
Recipe:
- Time: 20-25 minutes
- Portion: Serves 6
- Take skewers and thread 3-4 marshmallows onto each skewer.
- Melt 1 cup of your favorite chocolate (milk, dark, or white) in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth.
- Dip each marshmallow into the melted chocolate, covering about half.
- Immediately roll the chocolate-coated marshmallow in 1/2 cup of sprinkles, crushed nuts, or cookie crumbs.
- Place the marshmallow pops on a parchment-lined tray and let them set in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
2. Artisanal & Gourmet Marshmallows
Gone are the days of plain vanilla. Trendy cafes are offering marshmallows in flavors like lavender honey, matcha, and salted caramel. These gourmet options cater to sophisticated palates while maintaining their playful charm.
Recipe:
- Time: 4 hours (includes setting time)
- Portion: Makes 20 marshmallows
- Combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/3 cup of light corn syrup, and 1/4 cup of water in a saucepan. Heat until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
- In a large mixing bowl, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let bloom for 5 minutes.
- Slowly pour the hot syrup into the gelatin while mixing on low speed. Gradually increase to high speed and whip for 10-12 minutes until fluffy.
- Add 1 tablespoon of lavender extract or infuse your sugar syrup with 1 teaspoon of dried lavender for a subtle floral flavor.
- Pour the mixture into a greased and powdered 8×8-inch dish, spread evenly, and let set for 4 hours before cutting into squares.
3. Marshmallow-Based Beverages
Hot drinks topped with marshmallows are a classic, but cafes are going a step further with marshmallow milkshakes, marshmallow lattes, and even marshmallow-infused teas. These beverages are not only delicious but also cater to the “drinkable dessert” trend.
Recipe:
- Time: 10 minutes
- Portion: Serves 1
- In a blender, combine 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream, 1/2 cup of milk, and 1/4 cup of marshmallow fluff.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into a glass and top with whipped cream, 1/4 cup of mini marshmallows, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Serve with a straw and enjoy immediately!
How to Incorporate These Trends at Home
You don’t need to visit a marshmallow cafe to enjoy these sweet trends. With a little creativity and the right recipes, you can bring the marshmallow magic into your kitchen for any occasion.