Deep Fried Marshmallows are a fun, indulgent treat I turn to when I’m in the mood for something sweet, crispy, and slightly outrageous. They’re coated in a fluffy pancake batter, deep-fried until golden, and irresistibly gooey in the center. Think fairground vibes with a homemade twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these marshmallows transform into warm, melty bites of joy. They’re quick to make, perfect for parties or weekend cravings, and only require a handful of ingredients. Whether I’m making them for kids or to impress friends with a unique dessert, they never disappoint.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 20 jumbo marshmallows
- 1 cup pancake mix
- 2/3 cup water (or as directed on your pancake mix for batter consistency)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
- Chocolate or caramel sauce (optional, for dipping)
Directions
- Make the Batter
I mix the pancake mix with water in a bowl until smooth. I want the batter to be thick enough to coat the marshmallows well, not too runny. - Heat the Oil
In a deep saucepan or fryer, I heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C). I use a thermometer to keep it steady, but if I don’t have one, I test with a small drop of batter—it should sizzle and rise immediately. - Coat the Marshmallows
I dip each marshmallow into the batter, turning to coat fully. I use a fork or skewer to help handle them without mess. - Fry in Batches
I carefully drop 3–4 battered marshmallows into the hot oil at a time. They puff up and turn golden in about 30–60 seconds. I flip them gently to cook evenly. - Drain and Serve
I remove the fried marshmallows with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel–lined plate to drain. While still warm, I dust them with powdered sugar and serve with chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 20 fried marshmallows.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Mini Version: I use mini marshmallows on toothpicks for a bite-sized party snack.
- Flavor Twist: I mix cinnamon or cocoa powder into the pancake batter for extra flavor.
- Stuffed Surprise: I freeze chocolate-stuffed marshmallows before dipping and frying for an even gooier center.
- Baked Option: Not the same texture, but I’ve tried baking them in a mini muffin tin with batter for a less messy alternative.
Storage/Reheating
These are best served fresh. If I do store leftovers, I keep them in an airtight container for up to 1 day and reheat in the oven or air fryer to revive the crispness. They don’t reheat well in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of jumbo?
Yes, I just reduce the frying time slightly. Mini marshmallows also work if I skewer them first.
What kind of pancake mix works best?
I use any standard “just add water” pancake mix. If I’m using a mix that requires eggs or milk, I follow the package instructions for a thick batter.
How do I keep the marshmallows from melting too fast?
I make sure the oil is hot enough before frying and coat the marshmallows well in batter—that insulates them from the direct heat.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
It’s tricky. The batter may not set well in an air fryer, but I’ve had limited success using a thick batter and spraying with oil before air frying at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
Are they safe for kids to make?
They’re fun for kids to eat, but since frying involves hot oil, I always handle that part myself and let the kids help with dipping or dusting after.
Conclusion
Deep Fried Marshmallows are the ultimate fun dessert—crispy, melty, and just a little over the top. Whether I’m recreating fair food at home or looking for a new way to enjoy marshmallows, this treat always brings smiles. It’s quick, easy, and totally unforgettable.
PrintDeep Fried Marshmallows
Deep Fried Marshmallows are a playful, indulgent dessert featuring jumbo marshmallows coated in pancake batter and fried to golden perfection. Crispy on the outside and gooey in the center, they’re a sweet treat reminiscent of fairground favorites.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 fried marshmallows
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo marshmallows
- 1 cup pancake mix
- 2/3 cup water (or as needed for batter consistency)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
- Chocolate or caramel sauce (optional, for dipping)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix pancake mix with water until smooth and thick enough to coat marshmallows.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep saucepan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each marshmallow in the batter to coat fully, using a fork or skewer.
- Fry 3–4 marshmallows at a time until golden and puffed, about 30–60 seconds. Flip gently for even cooking.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with dipping sauces.
Notes
- Use mini marshmallows for bite-sized versions on toothpicks.
- Add cinnamon or cocoa powder to the batter for extra flavor.
- Try stuffing marshmallows with chocolate before freezing and frying for a gooey center.
- Bake in mini muffin tins with batter for a less messy option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fried marshmallow
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg