Golden Crispy Deep-Fried Marshmallows: A Carnival-Style Sweet Treat

Transform ordinary marshmallows into an extraordinary dessert with this deep-fried recipe that delivers a crunchy golden shell and a melted, gooey center. This carnival-inspired treat combines simple ingredients with quick preparation to create a texture contrast that’s irresistibly delicious. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and playful, these deep-fried marshmallows bring fairground magic straight to your kitchen.​

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 20-24 pieces

What You’ll Need

Marshmallows

• 20-24 large marshmallows
• Wooden skewers or toothpicks (optional for easier handling)

Batter

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) cold milk or sparkling water
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Frying

• Vegetable or canola oil (approximately 4 cups for deep frying)

Toppings (Your Choice)

• Powdered sugar
• Melted chocolate or chocolate syrup
• Caramel sauce
• Crushed graham crackers
• Cinnamon sugar
• Rainbow sprinkles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Marshmallows

Pat marshmallows dry if sticky, then insert skewers or toothpicks for easy dipping. Freeze them for 10-15 minutes to help maintain their shape during frying and prevent premature melting. This step is especially important on warm days or in heated kitchens.

Mix the Batter

Whisk together flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, whisking until smooth and lump-free. The batter should resemble thick pancake batter and coat marshmallows evenly.

Heat Your Oil

Pour oil into a deep pot or fryer to a depth of 2 inches (5cm). Heat to 350-375°F (175-190°C) using a thermometer for accuracy. Proper temperature ensures a crispy exterior without burning or over-melting the marshmallow center.

Coat and Fry

Dip each marshmallow completely in batter, letting excess drip off. Carefully lower 4-5 coated marshmallows into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 25-60 seconds per side, turning gently until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Add Finishing Touches

Dust warm marshmallows with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar immediately. Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce, or roll in crushed graham crackers for a s’mores-inspired variation. Serve while centers are still warm and gooey.

Expert Tips for Success

Control Your Temperature: Maintain oil between 340-375°F to prevent greasy absorption or burning. Test readiness by dropping a bit of batter—it should sizzle and rise within 2-3 seconds.

Freeze First: Chilling marshmallows 15-30 minutes before frying helps them hold their shape and creates the perfect gooey center.

Perfect Your Batter: Adding cornstarch creates extra crispiness, while sparkling water makes the coating lighter and airier. Adjust consistency by adding flour if too thin or milk if too thick.

Fry in Small Batches: Overcrowding drops oil temperature and results in soggy marshmallows. Fry only 4-5 pieces at a time for optimal texture.

Enhance with Flavors: Mix cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter, try flavored marshmallows like strawberry or caramel, or experiment with different chocolate glazes.

Creative Serving Ideas

Carnival Style: Pile fried marshmallows in paper cones, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm for authentic fairground vibes.​

S’mores Twist: Roll freshly fried marshmallows in crushed graham crackers and drizzle with melted chocolate for instant s’mores flavor.

Sundae Topper: Add these to ice cream sundaes for a decadent topping with contrasting textures.​

Dessert Skewers: Thread them onto sticks with strawberries and brownie pieces for easy party kabobs.​

Interactive Dipping Bar: Serve with bowls of chocolate ganache, Nutella, and caramel for a customizable dessert station.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Dipped: Cool slightly after frying, then dip halfway in melted chocolate and let set on parchment paper.​

Coconut Coated: Roll warm fried marshmallows in shredded coconut for tropical flavor.​

Fruit Addition: Add a strawberry or banana slice to skewers before battering—the fruit caramelizes beautifully when fried.​

Maple Cinnamon: Stir a tablespoon of maple syrup into batter and finish with cinnamon-sugar coating.​

Graham Cracker Crusted: Coat battered marshmallows in crushed graham crackers before frying for extra crunch.​

Storage and Reheating

Prepare batter up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate, stirring before use. These marshmallows taste best fresh, but you can store cooled ones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it melts the marshmallow and softens the coating.​

Nutritional Information

Per piece (approximate):

• Calories: 110
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 1g
• Sugar: 10g

Values vary depending on coating thickness, oil absorption, and toppings used.​

Pairing Suggestions

Serve these with hot chocolate for the ultimate comfort combination, or pair with coffee for a sweet-bitter contrast. They also work beautifully alongside vanilla milkshakes or as crumbled toppings over ice cream sundaes.​

Why This Recipe Works

The science behind deep-fried marshmallows relies on moisture turning to steam inside the coating, which crisps the outer layer while the marshmallow’s airy structure creates that signature crunch-and-melt texture. Cornstarch in the batter stabilizes it and adds extra “snap” to the coating. Using neutral oils like canola or vegetable ensures high heat tolerance without unwanted flavors.​

This recipe brings carnival magic home with minimal effort and maximum fun. The golden crust shatters to reveal stretchy, molten marshmallow that delivers pure indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re hosting kids’ parties, movie nights, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these crispy deep-fried marshmallows create memorable moments and happy faces.