This vegan marshmallow cream recipe is a soft, fluffy, sweet spread made without gelatin or other animal-based ingredients. It has a light marshmallow-like texture and can be used as a filling, topping, dip, or spread for desserts.
Vegan Marshmallow Cream Recipe
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: About 2 cups
Ingredients
- ½ cup aquafaba, chilled
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- â…› teaspoon cream of tartar
How to Make Vegan Marshmallow Cream
Add the chilled aquafaba and cream of tartar to a clean mixing bowl. Beat on medium-high speed until the aquafaba becomes white, fluffy, and forms soft peaks. Meanwhile, add the granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup to a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Continue cooking until the mixture becomes hot and syrupy. Slowly pour the hot sugar mixture into the whipped aquafaba while continuing to beat. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then keep mixing until the vegan marshmallow cream becomes thick, smooth, and fluffy. Use the cream immediately or transfer it to a clean container and refrigerate it until needed. For another sweet treat using marshmallow cream, try marshmallow cream fudge for an easy dessert option.
What Is Vegan Marshmallow Cream?
Vegan marshmallow cream is a plant-based alternative to traditional marshmallow creme. Instead of relying on egg whites or gelatin, this version uses aquafaba to create a light and fluffy texture.
Aquafaba is the liquid from cooked chickpeas. When whipped, it can become airy and foamy, making it useful in many vegan desserts.
What Does Vegan Marshmallow Cream Taste Like?
Vegan marshmallow cream has a sweet, light flavor with vanilla notes. Its texture is soft, fluffy, and creamy rather than firm like a traditional marshmallow.
The vanilla helps give it the familiar flavor associated with marshmallow desserts, while the whipped aquafaba keeps the mixture light.
Why Use Aquafaba?
Aquafaba is the key ingredient that gives this vegan marshmallow cream its airy texture. When whipped, it traps air and creates a fluffy base that can be combined with the sweet syrup.
For the best results, use chilled aquafaba and make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free from grease.
How to Use Vegan Marshmallow Cream
Vegan marshmallow cream can be used in many simple ways. Spread it between cookies or cakes, spoon it over brownies, or use it as a topping for hot chocolate.
You can also use it as a filling for cupcakes, a dip for fruit, or a sweet layer in dessert sandwiches. Because it is soft and spreadable, it works especially well in recipes where traditional marshmallow creme is needed.
Tips for Making Vegan Marshmallow Cream
Use chilled aquafaba for easier whipping. If the aquafaba does not become fluffy, continue beating until it reaches the desired consistency.
Add the hot sugar mixture slowly while mixing. Pouring it gradually helps incorporate the syrup into the whipped aquafaba without losing too much volume.
Use vanilla extract for a classic marshmallow flavor, or adjust the amount according to your preference.
How to Store Vegan Marshmallow Cream
Transfer leftover vegan marshmallow cream to an airtight container and refrigerate it. Keep the container covered when not in use.
The texture may become firmer after refrigeration, so allow it to sit briefly before using if needed. Stir or gently whip it to bring back some of its softness.
Can You Freeze Vegan Marshmallow Cream?
Freezing can change the texture of whipped mixtures, so refrigeration is generally more suitable for this type of cream. For the best texture, prepare it when you plan to use it and keep leftovers refrigerated.
FAQs
Is marshmallow cream vegan?
Traditional marshmallow cream may contain animal-based ingredients, depending on the brand or recipe. A vegan version is made without gelatin or other animal-derived ingredients.
What makes vegan marshmallow cream fluffy?
Whipped aquafaba provides the airy texture in this recipe. The sugar syrup helps give the finished cream its sweetness and structure.
Can I use vegan marshmallow cream as a frosting?
Yes. It can be spread over cakes, cupcakes, brownies, and other desserts as a sweet, fluffy topping.
Can I use homemade vegan marshmallow cream for s’mores?
Yes, it can be used as a sweet marshmallow-style layer in vegan s’mores. Pair it with vegan chocolate and vegan graham crackers.
Does vegan marshmallow cream taste like marshmallows?
It has a sweet vanilla flavor and a light, fluffy texture similar to marshmallow creme, although the exact flavor and texture can vary from traditional versions.
Final Thoughts
This vegan marshmallow cream recipe is a simple plant-based option for creating a sweet, fluffy dessert topping without gelatin or egg whites. Aquafaba gives the cream its airy texture, while sugar and vanilla provide the classic sweetness.
Use it as a filling, frosting, dip, or topping whenever you want a soft and creamy marshmallow-style addition to your favorite desserts.