Homemade Marshmallows with Beef Gelatin
There’s something deeply nostalgic and satisfying about making homemade marshmallows with beef gelatin from scratch, especially when they’re made with ingredients you can feel really good about. This homemade marshmallows with beef gelatin recipe is packed with simple, wholesome components like grass-fed beef gelatin, pure maple syrup, and real vanilla extract—no corn syrup or artificial flavors in sight. The result is a soft, fluffy treat that tastes richer and cleaner than anything store-bought.
One of our favorite parts of this recipe is how easy it is to lean into local, homemade goodness. Using locally sourced maple syrup adds depth and character, and if you’ve got homemade vanilla extract on hand, it truly takes these marshmallows to the next level. We usually keep ours in a jar and use it like marshmallow fluff—perfect for spooning into mugs. That said, you can absolutely spread it into a 9×13 pan, let it set, and cut it into classic marshmallow squares.
On our homestead, these homemade marshmallows with beef gelatin are a true winter staple. They’re incredible swirled into hot cocoa or melting slowly into a cozy cup of coffee on a cold morning. Around Christmas, we love topping them with dye-free sprinkles for a little extra festiveness—simple, joyful, and perfect for the season. It’s one of those small traditions that makes winter feel warmer and sweeter, one mug at a time.
Notes about the Texture of Homemade Marshmallows with Beef Gelatin Compared to StoreBought
When you first make these homemade marshmallows with beef gelatin, the texture is incredibly silky and smooth—very similar to marshmallow fluff straight from the mixer. As they sit and settle, though, they naturally firm up and transform into more of a chunky, scoopable marshmallow rather than a light, airy fluff. If you’re used to store-bought marshmallows, this texture shift can take a little getting used to, but it’s all part of the charm of a truly homemade version. Once you taste the rich maple sweetness, real vanilla, and know the benefits of the nourishing ingredients inside, it’s hard to go back—this kind of marshmallow just hits different.
Why Homemade Marshmallows with Beef Gelatin are NUTRIENT DENSE!
One of the best parts of these homemade marshmallows with beef gelatin is that the ingredients actually bring real benefits to the table. Beef gelatin is rich in collagen-supporting amino acids like glycine and proline, which can help support joint health, skin elasticity, digestion, and even sleep. Gelatin is also known for being gentle on the gut and supportive of overall connective tissue health, making it a nourishing addition rather than just a filler.
Maple syrup isn’t just a natural sweetener—it contains trace minerals like manganese, zinc, and calcium, along with antioxidant compounds that help combat oxidative stress. Compared to refined sugars, pure maple syrup offers a more complex flavor and a slower, more balanced sweetness. Vanilla extract also brings more than just warmth and aroma; real vanilla contains antioxidants and compounds that may support mood and reduce inflammation, all while adding depth and richness to the recipe.
Together, these simple ingredients create a treat that feels indulgent but aligns with a more intentional, nourishing way of cooking. Instead of artificial flavors, dyes, and corn syrup, you’re getting real food with real benefits—proof that even something as nostalgic as marshmallows can be both comforting and thoughtfully made.
Homemade Marshmallows with Beef Gelatin
Equipment
- 1 Stand Mixer
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Hot Water
- 3 T Beef Gelatin
- 1 Cup Maple Syrup
- 1 T Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Put 3T Beef Gelatin in 1 cup Hot Water. Let this sit for 5 mins while the gelatin blooms (basically soaks up the water and puffs up). This recipe can be easily doubled and done in a regular sized 5-6 quart Kitchen Aid Mixer!
- Put the water/gelatin mix in the stand mixer. Add in 1 cup Maple Syrup and 1T Vanilla Extract. You can definitely substitute peppermint or orange extract here for something fun!
- Let this go the stand mixer on high for at least 10 mins. It will seem like it's never going to come together, but it will - I promise! If 10 mins doesn't do it, let it go another 5 mins.
- This will be very smooth when it's ready. It will thicken after 15-20 mins. You can pour this into a 9x13 to cut into marshmallows while it's still thin, or you can simply put into a jar or bowl to use in a scoop-able fashion.