Ghostbusters Stay Puft Marshmallows are a fun, nostalgic treat that brings a bit of movie magic into my kitchen. Inspired by the iconic Stay Puft Marshmallow Man from Ghostbusters, these fluffy, sweet marshmallows are perfect for themed parties, Halloween snacks, or just to satisfy my sweet tooth with a touch of 80s charm. I can make them homemade or decorate store-bought marshmallows to match the vibe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s playful, kid-friendly, and perfect for fans of the Ghostbusters franchise. Whether I make homemade marshmallows from scratch or just decorate a batch of store-bought ones, these little treats are easy to customize and super fun to serve. They’re great for party favors, hot chocolate toppers, or themed movie nights.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For homemade marshmallows:
- Unflavored gelatin
 - Granulated sugar
 - Light corn syrup
 - Water
 - Vanilla extract
 - Salt
 - Powdered sugar (for dusting)
 - Cornstarch (optional, mixed with powdered sugar)
 
For decoration:
- Large marshmallows (if not making them homemade)
 - Edible markers or food coloring pens
 - Mini blue fondant or candy hats (optional)
 - Red licorice lace or red icing (for scarves)
 - Candy eyes (optional)
 
Directions
To make homemade marshmallows:
- I line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper and dust it with a powdered sugar and cornstarch mix.
 - In a large mixing bowl, I combine gelatin with cold water and let it bloom.
 - In a saucepan, I boil sugar, corn syrup, and water until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage).
 - I slowly pour the hot syrup into the gelatin while beating on low, then increase to high speed and beat until fluffy and tripled in volume—about 10 minutes.
 - I mix in vanilla and a pinch of salt.
 - I spread the mixture into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and let it set at room temperature for at least 4 hours.
 - Once set, I cut the marshmallows into cubes and dust them with more powdered sugar.
 
To decorate marshmallows (homemade or store-bought):
- I draw little Stay Puft faces on each marshmallow using black edible markers—eyes, eyebrows, and a smiling mouth.
 - I use a red icing gel or thin licorice lace to create a scarf around each marshmallow.
 - For a signature look, I top each one with a blue fondant cap (or small round candy hat) and a tiny red dot or ribbon.
 - I arrange them on a tray or bag them up for gifting.
 
Servings and timing
Makes about 25–30 marshmallows (homemade or decorated).
Prep time: 20 minutes (plus 4 hours to set if homemade)
Decorating time: 20–30 minutes
Variations
- I flavor the marshmallows with peppermint, almond, or strawberry extract for a twist.
 - I dip the bottoms in melted chocolate and sprinkles for an extra treat.
 - For extra fluff, I stack two marshmallows and secure with a toothpick to create a mini Stay Puft “man.”
 - I make mini versions using small marshmallows for hot cocoa toppers.
 - If I’m short on time, I skip the homemade step and just decorate store-bought marshmallows.
 
storage/reheating
I store the marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If I made them from scratch, I make sure they’re fully dusted to prevent sticking. I avoid refrigerating them, as that can cause moisture and make them sticky. No reheating needed—just enjoy as-is or drop into a hot drink.
FAQs
Do I have to make homemade marshmallows?
Not at all. I often use store-bought marshmallows and just decorate them. It’s faster and still fun, especially if I’m making a lot for a party.
Can I freeze marshmallows?
I don’t recommend freezing them, as it can change the texture. Homemade marshmallows keep well at room temp for about a week.
What kind of edible marker works best?
I use fine-tip food coloring pens made for decorating sweets—they work best on smooth, dry surfaces like marshmallows.
How do I keep the decorations from smudging?
I let the ink dry completely before stacking or storing the marshmallows, and I avoid touching the faces after drawing.
Can kids help with decorating?
Absolutely! I set up a decorating station with markers, icing, and candy pieces. It’s a perfect Halloween or movie night activity.
Conclusion
Ghostbusters Stay Puft Marshmallows are the perfect mix of nostalgic fun and sweet treat. Whether I’m making them from scratch or just having fun decorating with the kids, they always bring smiles and a little spooky cheer. They’re simple to make, fun to serve, and perfect for fans of all ages.
PrintGhostbusters Stay Puft Marshmallows
Ghostbusters Stay Puft Marshmallows are nostalgic, movie-inspired treats that can be made from scratch or decorated from store-bought marshmallows. Perfect for Halloween, themed parties, or hot cocoa toppers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
 - Cook Time: 10 minutes
 - Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
 - Yield: 25 to 30 marshmallows
 - Category: Dessert
 - Method: No-Bake
 - Cuisine: American
 - Diet: Vegetarian
 
Ingredients
- For Homemade Marshmallows:
 - 3 envelopes unflavored gelatin
 - 1 cup cold water (divided)
 - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
 - 1 cup light corn syrup
 - 1/4 tsp salt
 - 1 tbsp vanilla extract
 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
 - 1/4 cup cornstarch (optional, mixed with powdered sugar)
 - For Decoration:
 - Large marshmallows (if not making homemade)
 - Black edible marker or food coloring pen
 - Red licorice lace or red icing gel (for scarf)
 - Mini blue fondant hats or candy rounds
 - Candy eyes (optional)
 
Instructions
- Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper and dust with powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture.
 - Bloom gelatin in 1/2 cup cold water in a mixing bowl.
 - In a saucepan, heat sugar, corn syrup, and remaining 1/2 cup water to 240°F.
 - Slowly pour hot syrup into gelatin while beating on low. Increase to high speed and beat for 10 minutes until fluffy and tripled in volume.
 - Add vanilla and salt, then pour mixture into prepared pan. Smooth top and let set at room temperature for at least 4 hours.
 - Cut set marshmallows into cubes and dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
 - To decorate, draw faces on each marshmallow with edible markers.
 - Wrap red licorice lace or use red gel for the scarf.
 - Top with a blue fondant or candy hat and a red dot or ribbon for the classic Stay Puft look.
 - Serve on a tray or package in bags for gifting.
 
Notes
- Use flavored extracts like peppermint or strawberry for variety.
 - Dip bottoms in melted chocolate and sprinkles for an extra treat.
 - Stack marshmallows and secure with a toothpick for a mini Stay Puft figure.
 - Decorate store-bought marshmallows for a quicker version.
 - Let ink dry fully to avoid smudging when storing or stacking.
 
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 marshmallow
 - Calories: 70
 - Sugar: 12g
 - Sodium: 10mg
 - Fat: 0g
 - Saturated Fat: 0g
 - Unsaturated Fat: 0g
 - Trans Fat: 0g
 - Carbohydrates: 16g
 - Fiber: 0g
 - Protein: 1g
 - Cholesterol: 0mg
 
