There’s a certain nostalgia that comes with marshmallows, a sweet reminder of childhood adventures filled with gooey treats and campfire stories. But when I decided to elevate that nostalgia, I stumbled upon a delightful twist—Cookies and Cream Marshmallows. Inspired by the classic flavor of cookies and milk, these homemade goodies are not only a fantastic no-bake treat but also an irresistible way to indulge.
As soon as you take a bite, you’ll be greeted by the fluffy texture and the crunch of Oreo chunks, making every mouthful a sweet escape. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift that says ‘I care’ or just want to spruce up your snack game, these marshmallows are your go-to recipe. So, dust off your apron and get ready to whip up a batch of delightfully creamy confections that are sure to impress!
Why Are Cookies and Cream Marshmallows So Irresistible?
Delicious Twist: This recipe gives classic marshmallows a fun upgrade with cookies and cream flavor, making it a sweet treat for everyone.
No-Bake Wonder: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll enjoy a delightful dessert without needing an oven.
Nostalgic Crunch: Each bite features irresistible Oreo chunks for a satisfying texture that takes you back to childhood.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for use in s’mores, hot chocolate, or as playful toppings on dessert boards.
Gift-Ready: Impress friends and family with homemade goodies that are beautiful, delicious, and sure to be loved.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out my guide on making other delightful homemade sweets.
Cookies and Cream Marshmallows Ingredients
For the Marshmallow Base
• Water – Provides the essential liquid base for the marshmallows.
• Powdered Gelatin – Serves as the stabilizing agent for a fluffy texture; substitute with leaf gelatin if needed.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds the right amount of sweetness and structure; no substitutions are recommended.
• Corn Syrup – Ensures smoothness and prevents crystallization; avoid other syrups for the best results.
• Fine Sea Salt – Enhances the sweetness; regular salt can be a quick stand-in.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Infuses a rich, warm vanilla flavor; feel free to use vanilla extract if you’re in a pinch.
• Oreos (crushed) – The star ingredient that brings beloved cookies and cream flavor and delightful crunch.
• Canola Oil/Nonstick Cooking Spray – Essential for greasing your tin and tools to prevent marshmallow stickiness.
For the Coating
• Finely Crushed Oreos – Creates a delicious cookies-and-cream coating that compliments the marshmallow.
• Dry Milk Powder – Adds a creamy texture with a hint of saltiness; cornstarch or potato starch can be used if necessary.
Get ready to dive into the sweet world of Cookies and Cream Marshmallows—your taste buds will thank you!
How to Make Cookies and Cream Marshmallows
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Prepare the Tin: Line an 8×8-inch square tin with parchment paper, making sure it hangs over edges for easy removal. Generously grease it with canola oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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Bloom the Gelatin: In a mixing bowl, combine 120 ml of water with powdered gelatin and set it aside. Let it bloom for a few minutes, allowing the gelatin to soften and dissolve.
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Cook the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, the remaining water, and fine sea salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, cooking until it reaches 240°F (116°C) on a candy thermometer.
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Mix the Gelatin and Syrup: Carefully pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin. Mix on high speed for up to 9 minutes, until the mixture thickens and turns fluffy.
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Fold in Cookies: Gently fold in the crushed Oreos, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the marshmallow mixture for that crunchy texture.
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Transfer to Tin: Use an oiled spatula to transfer the fluffy mixture into the prepared tin. Spread it evenly and cover it loosely. Let it set at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight.
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Prepare the Coating: For the coating, crush Oreos and mix them with dry milk powder in a bowl, creating a delicious cookies-and-cream dusting.
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Cut and Dust the Marshmallows: Once set, carefully turn the marshmallow slab onto a parchment-covered surface. Dust it with the milk-and-cookies mixture and cut into squares.
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Finalize the Coating: Toss the marshmallow pieces in the cookies-and-cream coating to ensure every bite is well-covered and bursting with flavor.
Optional: Shake some extra crushed Oreos over the top for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Cookies and Cream Marshmallows
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Room Temperature: Store your cookies and cream marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 weeks to maintain their fluffy texture and flavor.
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Fridge: If you live in a particularly warm climate, you may refrigerate the marshmallows for better preservation, but allow them to return to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste.
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Freezer: To store longer, freeze the marshmallows in a single layer in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
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Reheating: These marshmallows are perfect for melting into hot cocoa or making s’mores. Just add them directly to your hot treats without any need for reheating!
Cookies and Cream Marshmallows Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your marshmallow treat with these fun variations!
- Different Sandwich Cookies: Swap Oreos for other sandwich cookies like Nutter Butters or Golden Oreos for a new spin on flavor.
- Minty Fresh: Incorporate peppermint extract into the marshmallow base for a cool, seasonal twist. Imagine savoring a minty bite reminiscent of holiday festivities!
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch and richer texture in every bite.
- Chocolate Chip Boost: Mix in mini chocolate chips along with the Oreos for extra chocolaty goodness in your marshmallows. Each bite will feel like a mini dessert party!
- Flavored Extracts: Replace vanilla bean paste with almond or coconut extract to give your marshmallows an exotic flavor. The unique aromas will make your kitchen feel like a baker’s paradise!
- Spicy Surprise: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a surprising heat that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness. It’s an unexpected yet delightful kick!
- Seasonal Cookies: Use special edition cookies, like pumpkin spice or gingerbread, to make themed marshmallows that celebrate the holidays. Who could resist a festive treat that captures the season?
- Fruit Infusion: Try adding a few drops of fruit extracts, such as strawberry or raspberry, to enhance the flavor profile and give your marshmallows a fruity twist. They’ll transport you to a sunny orchard with every bite!
Embrace these variations to make your cookies and cream marshmallows uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Cookies and Cream Marshmallows are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the marshmallow base up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to set overnight for a fluffier texture. Mix the ingredients and follow the steps through to transferring the mixture into the lined tin. To keep them fresh and delicious, cover the tin loosely with plastic wrap, ensuring it doesn’t touch the surface to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply cut them into squares and toss in the crushed Oreo coating. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy wonderful, homemade marshmallows with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Cookies and Cream Marshmallows
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Candy Thermometer Use: A reliable candy thermometer is essential for precise sugar temperature; incorrect temperatures lead to marshmallows that won’t set correctly.
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Grease Generously: Don’t skimp on oiling your utensils and parchment; this prevents frustrating sticking when you’re ready to cut your delicious cookies and cream marshmallows.
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Setting Time Matters: Allow your marshmallows ample time to set—overnight yields the best results. Rushing this step can result in a chewy texture rather than light and fluffy.
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Folding Technique: Gently fold in the crushed Oreos into the marshmallow mix to maintain its airy texture. Over-mixing can flatten your beautiful marshmallow fluff.
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Experiment with Coatings: Feel free to create variations by adding other crushed cookies to the coating mixture for different flavors while keeping that irresistible cookies and cream taste.
What to Serve with Cookies and Cream Marshmallows?
Elevate your homemade marshmallow experience with delightful pairings that create a memorable dessert spread.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of decadent hot chocolate perfectly complements the fluffy sweetness of the marshmallows, creating a cozy treat. Imagine the creamy marshmallows melting into the chocolate, making every sip heavenly.
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Graham Crackers: Crunchy and slightly sweet, graham crackers add a delightful textural contrast when enjoyed alongside the marshmallows or in s’mores. Dip them in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent twist.
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Ice Cream: Scoop your favorite vanilla or chocolate ice cream and top it with pieces of cookies and cream marshmallows for a sensational sundae. The combination of cold and creamy with fluffy sweetness is pure bliss!
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Milkshake: Blend together your choice of cookies and cream ice cream with milk and toss in a few marshmallow pieces. This creates a dessert drink that’s both extravagant and satisfying.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the marshmallows for an added layer of richness. The gooey texture brings out the flavors even more, making it a tempting addition to dessert platters.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with strawberries, bananas, and blueberries adds a vibrant, fresh counterpoint to the sweet marshmallows. The natural tanginess of the fruit balances out the creamy, sugary flavors beautifully.
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Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee or a shot of espresso pairs surprisingly well, enhancing the sweetness of the marshmallows. The bitter notes of coffee complement the sugary treat and create a gourmet dessert feeling.
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Chocolate Fondue: Create a fun and interactive dessert by melting chocolate in a fondue pot and dipping the cookies and cream marshmallows into it. This family-friendly activity is sure to bring smiles around the table.
Explore these delectable pairings, and let the flavors dance together for a memorable treat experience!
Cookies and Cream Marshmallows Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right Oreos for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Opt for classic Oreos for that iconic cookies and cream taste, but feel free to experiment with flavored varieties like mint or peanut butter for a twist. Just remember that different flavors will also change the overall flavor profile of the marshmallows.
What’s the best way to store leftover marshmallows?
Store your cookies and cream marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 weeks. Ensure they are kept away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain their fluffy, delightful texture.
Can I freeze cookies and cream marshmallows?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, lay the marshmallows in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with wax paper if desired. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and let them return to room temperature before indulging!
What should I do if my marshmallows didn’t set properly?
If your marshmallows didn’t set, check two main things: temperature and timing. First, ensure your syrup reached 240°F (116°C) on a candy thermometer; too low can result in a gooey texture. If they’re still soft after the recommended setting time, it might be best to re-melt the mixture gently, add a bit more bloomed gelatin, then whip it again until thickened.
Are cookies and cream marshmallows safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these sugary treats away from your pets. Ingredients like sugar and gelatin are not harmful in small amounts but can cause digestive issues if consumed in large quantities. Always opt for pet-safe treats for your furry friends!
What can I use if I don’t have powdered gelatin?
You can substitute powdered gelatin with leaf gelatin; use three sheets to replace one packet of powdered gelatin. Make sure to soften the sheets in cold water for about 5-10 minutes before adding them to the hot syrup mixture. This ensures your cookies and cream marshmallows maintain that airy texture!
Decadent Cookies and Cream Marshmallows You’ll Love to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line an 8x8-inch square tin with parchment paper and grease it with canola oil or cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 120 ml of water with powdered gelatin and set aside to bloom.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Boil until it reaches 240°F (116°C).
- Pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin and mix on high speed for up to 9 minutes.
- Gently fold in the crushed Oreos until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared tin and let it set at room temperature for at least 4 hours.
- Crush Oreos and mix with dry milk powder to prepare the coating.
- Dust the set marshmallow slab with the milk-and-oreos mixture and cut into squares.
- Toss the squares in the coating to ensure they are well-covered.