Deep Fried Marshmallows You Need in 5 Easy Steps

Introduction of Deep Fried Marshmallows

Hi there, I’m Chef Andrew, and today I’m letting you in on a magical fairground secret that you can recreate in your own kitchen — deep fried marshmallows. If you’ve ever wandered through a carnival, tempted by the scent of golden fried treats and nostalgic desserts, then this ooey-gooey indulgence will hit the sweet spot. Crispy on the outside and melted perfection on the inside, this recipe is about to take your dessert game to a whole new level.

Most people don’t believe marshmallows can be deep fried without melting into a mess — but trust me, with the right batter and one crucial prep step (freezing those mallows), it’s not only possible, it’s absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re planning a fun weekend snack for the kids, a showstopping treat for your next gathering, or just looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

And here’s the kicker — you can even customize these with toppings like powdered sugar, whipped cream, sprinkles, or chocolate drizzle. Want a party hit? Serve them warm with dipping sauces and watch them vanish in seconds.

Ready to bring that state fair magic home? Let’s make these crispy clouds of joy together.

Golden brown deep fried marshmallows stacked on a dessert plate with powdered sugar.

Deep Fried Marshmallows You Need in 5 Easy Steps

Andrew BELLETT
These golden, crispy Deep Fried Marshmallows are the perfect fair-style treat you can easily make at home. Coated in fluffy pancake batter and flash-fried to perfection, they’re gooey on the inside and delightfully crunchy outside.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, Fair Food
Servings 20 pieces
Calories 50 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 20 large marshmallows frozen for at least 30 minutes
  • 2/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/3 cups buttermilk pancake mix Pearl Milling Company recommended
  • canola oil for frying, enough to fill fryer or 3–4 inches in pot

Optional Toppings

  • powdered sugar for dusting
  • whipped cream as desired
  • chocolate sauce for drizzling
  • rainbow sprinkles for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Freeze marshmallows for at least 30 minutes to prevent melting during frying.
  • Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 375°F. Use a candy thermometer if needed.
  • Whisk milk, egg, and vanilla in a small bowl until combined.
  • In a large bowl, place pancake mix and create a well. Add the milk mixture and gently whisk. Batter should remain slightly lumpy for best coating texture.
  • Dip frozen marshmallows into the batter to fully coat. Fry 4–5 at a time until golden brown, about 1 minute per batch.
  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined rack to drain excess oil. Serve with toppings of choice.

Notes

Keep marshmallows frozen until just before frying. Do not overcrowd the pot. Batter should be thick and lumpy. Avoid microwaving leftovers to maintain crispiness.
Keyword Deep Fried Marshmallows, Fair Food, Sweet Treat

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe “Deep Fried Marshmallows”

  • Quick and Easy to Make
    You don’t need fancy equipment or advanced techniques. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you can whip up a batch of golden marshmallow bites.
  • Fun for All Ages
    Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, deep fried marshmallows are a joyful dessert that delivers gooey, nostalgic flavor in every bite.
  • Perfect for Parties or Family Nights
    This recipe is a hit at birthday parties, movie nights, and backyard cookouts. Guests will rave about your creativity.
  • Crispy Outside, Gooey Inside
    Freezing the marshmallows before frying creates the perfect texture contrast. The batter crisps up beautifully while the inside stays soft and melty.
  • Endlessly Customizable
    Top them with powdered sugar, drizzle them with chocolate, or add sprinkles for a colorful finish. You can serve them plain or turn them into a show-stopping plated dessert.

What truly makes this recipe special is the element of surprise. Most people expect marshmallows to be roasted or served in a cup of cocoa. When you deep fry them, you unlock an entirely new way to enjoy their sweetness. It’s a fun twist that leaves a lasting impression.

Ingredients Needed For Deep Fried Marshmallows

For the Marshmallows

  • 20 large marshmallows, frozen — Freezing helps keep their shape and prevents leaking during frying.

For the Batter

  • ⅔ cup whole milk — Adds richness and helps bind the batter.
  • 1 large egg, room temperature — Binds the batter and gives it structure.
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract — Brings a warm hint of sweetness.
  • 1⅓ cups buttermilk pancake mix (Pearl Milling Company brand used) — A ready-to-go blend that simplifies the recipe without compromising texture or flavor.

For Frying

  • Canola oil — Choose an oil with a high smoke point. Fill your deep fryer or pot 3 to 4 inches deep.

Optional Toppings

  • Powdered sugar, sifted — Lightly dust for a classic finish.
  • Whipped cream — Adds a creamy contrast to the crispy coating.
  • Chocolate sauce — Drizzle over the top for rich, decadent flavor.
  • Rainbow jimmie sprinkles — A festive and colorful topping kids and adults love.

These simple ingredients come together quickly to create a warm, gooey, crowd-pleasing treat that’s as fun to eat as it is to make.

How to Make Deep Fried Marshmallows

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Freeze the marshmallows
    Begin by placing your marshmallows in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This is a key step to keep them firm while frying and prevent melting into the oil.
  2. Set up your draining station
    Line a large rimmed baking sheet with paper towels and place a wire rack on top. This setup helps drain excess oil and maintain crispness.
  3. Heat the oil
    Fill a heavy-duty pot or electric deep fryer with canola oil, about 3 to 4 inches deep. Heat to 375°F. Use a candy thermometer if you’re frying on the stovetop to maintain a steady oil temperature. Keeping the oil between 365°F and 375°F ensures a golden, crispy finish without absorbing too much oil.
  4. Prepare the wet mixture
    In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until fully blended. This mixture will help bind the batter and add flavor.
  5. Make the batter
    In a larger bowl, add the pancake mix and create a well in the center. Pour the milk mixture into the well, then gently whisk until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy and thicker than standard pancake batter. Overmixing can create a tough coating.
  6. Coat the marshmallows
    Drop 4 to 5 frozen marshmallows into the batter. Using your fingers, make sure each one is completely covered on all sides. This step is easiest with a hands-on approach.
  7. Fry the marshmallows
    Carefully place the coated marshmallows into the hot oil. Fry for about 25 to 30 seconds on each side or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to gently flip them if necessary.
Frozen marshmallows coated in pancake batter ready for deep frying.
  1. Drain and cool
    Remove the marshmallows from the oil and transfer them to the prepared wire rack. Let them rest for a minute or two while the excess oil drains.
  2. Serve and enjoy
    Arrange the deep fried marshmallows on a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar and optionally add whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or sprinkles for an extra treat.
Crispy marshmallows topped with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and colorful sprinkles.

Serving and Storage Tips of Deep Fried Marshmallows

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve fresh and hot: These deep fried marshmallows are best enjoyed immediately while still warm and crispy on the outside with a gooey center inside.
  • Toppings to impress: Elevate the experience by dusting with powdered sugar and adding whipped cream or chocolate sauce. Rainbow sprinkles are a fun and colorful addition, especially for kids.
  • Perfect party platter: Serve them on a platter with dipping options like caramel sauce, berry coulis, or melted chocolate to let guests customize their bites.
  • Single-serve style: Skewer 2 or 3 fried marshmallows on a stick and offer them as handheld fair-style treats for festivals, birthday parties, or fun family nights.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerator: Store leftover marshmallows in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
  • Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap each marshmallow in parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes to revive their crisp texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Helpful Notes of Deep Fried Marshmallows

  • Freeze marshmallows before frying: This step is critical. Keeping marshmallows frozen prevents them from melting too quickly in hot oil and leaking through the batter. Only coat them in batter right before frying.
  • Maintain proper oil temperature: Use a candy thermometer if you’re frying on the stovetop. Keep the oil temperature between 365°F and 375°F for the best golden, crispy results. Too cold and the batter absorbs oil. Too hot and it will burn the outside before the center warms.
  • Don’t overmix the batter: A few lumps are okay. Overmixing creates a dense coating that won’t fry up as light and crispy. The texture should be thicker than pancake batter to cling properly to the marshmallows.
  • Use your hands: Coating and transferring the frozen marshmallows with your fingers gives you better control and helps preserve the shape. It’s messy but effective.
  • Fry in small batches: Avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain steady oil temperature and allow even cooking. Frying 4 or 5 at a time works best.
  • Creative toppings: Go beyond the basics with drizzle options like caramel, strawberry sauce, or even crushed graham crackers for a s’mores-inspired twist.

Conclusion of Deep Fried Marshmallows

If you’re searching for a dessert that brings fun, nostalgia, and indulgent flavor to the table, deep fried marshmallows are the ultimate treat. These bite-sized sweets are crisp on the outside and irresistibly gooey on the inside, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re planning a carnival-themed party, satisfying your sweet tooth, or just feeling adventurous in the kitchen, this recipe delivers all the joy of fair food right at home.

The magic lies in the simplicity. With pantry staples like pancake mix and a quick freeze of marshmallows, you can whip these up without fuss. Plus, the variations are endless. Dress them up with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or colorful sprinkles, or enjoy them plain for that melt-in-your-mouth satisfaction.

Chef Andrew recommends serving them warm and fresh for the best texture, but don’t worry—they store surprisingly well and can be revived in the oven or air fryer for that just-fried finish. Remember to follow the tips in the notes section to ensure perfectly golden, gooey results every time.

Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a star rating and comment below to share your experience. Did you try a unique topping or flavor twist? Let us know—we’re always looking for delicious new ideas.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest and share it with your friends and family. Let’s spread the sweetness!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of Deep Fried Marshmallows

Can you deep fry marshmallows?

Yes, you can deep fry marshmallows. Freezing them beforehand helps keep their shape during frying, and a light pancake batter creates a crisp outer shell while the inside turns perfectly gooey.

Can you make marshmallow fluff from marshmallows?

Yes, marshmallow fluff can be made by melting marshmallows with a bit of corn syrup or water. However, for this recipe, we use whole frozen marshmallows to maintain structure during frying.

How to deep fry stuff at home?

To deep fry at home, use a heavy-bottomed pot with a few inches of oil. Heat the oil to the desired temperature (usually 350°F to 375°F), monitor it with a thermometer, and fry in small batches to maintain heat and safety.

How to deep fry without a deep fryer?

Use a large pot or Dutch oven on your stovetop. Make sure to fill it with enough oil to submerge the food and use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to maintain a steady oil temperature. Always fry in small batches.

Can you overcook marshmallows?

Yes. Overcooking marshmallows can cause them to rupture and ooze out of their coating. That’s why it’s essential to freeze them and fry just until golden, usually about 25–30 seconds per side.

How can I cook marshmallows?

Marshmallows can be roasted over a fire, microwaved, baked into desserts, or deep fried as in this recipe. Each method gives a different texture and flavor. Deep frying creates a crispy exterior with a warm, molten interior that’s truly irresistible.

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