Peppermint Snowflake Marshmallows & Rich Hot Chocolate

Tap a timecode to jump the video there — the current step is highlighted while it plays.

1. 1

   Lightly grease a 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper, then rub a layer of vegetable oil on the parchment to prevent sticking.

   💡 Using a little oil on the parchment helps the marshmallows release easily.

   ▶ 0:29

2. 2

   In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine 6 tbsp (90 ml) cold water, the gelatin, and meringue powder. Stir on low speed to dissolve the powders.

   💡 Dissolving the powders in cold water first helps the texture.

   meringue powder 2 tspcold water 10 tbsp (150 ml)

   ▶ 1:23

3. 3

   In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 4 tbsp (60 ml) water, sugar, and corn syrup. Boil over high heat without stirring until the mixture reaches 240°F (116°C), roughly 2 minutes after reaching a full boil.

   💡 Do not stir the sugar mixture while it is boiling to ensure proper texture.

   🔥 boil → high heat · 240°F⏱ 2 minutes▶ 2:21

4. 4

   With the mixer running at high speed, slowly pour the hot sugar mixture down the side of the bowl into the gelatin mixture. Whip for about 5 minutes until the volume triples and it begins to cool.

   💡 Pouring down the side avoids splashing hot sugar.

   ⏱ 5 minutes▶ 3:36

5. 5

   Whip in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan and spread to an even level.

   💡 Adding flavoring after whipping prevents the flavor from evaporating due to heat.

   peppermint extract 1/2 tsp

   ▶ 4:56

6. 6

   Dust the top generously with cornstarch. Let the marshmallows set uncovered at room temperature for at least 2 hours.

   💡 Do not put them in the fridge; let them set on the counter.

   cornstarch

   ⏱ 2 hours▶ 6:15

7. 7

   Invert the marshmallow onto a cutting board, peel away the parchment, and dust the top with cornstarch. Use a snowflake cookie cutter (dipped in cornstarch) to cut out shapes.

   💡 If you have leftover scraps, you can melt them and re-set them in a pan.

   cornstarch

   ▶ 7:08

8. 8

   In a small dish, mix the skim milk powder, cocoa powder, and sugar. Whisk in 1/4 cup (60 ml) of cold milk to create a paste.

   💡 The milk powder helps thicken the drink without adding extra fat.

   cocoa powder 6 tbsp (48 g)

   ▶ 9:58

9. 9

   Combine the cocoa mixture with the remaining milk in a saucepan. Heat until just below a simmer, then whisk until frothy and smooth.

   💡 The mixture should be thick and velvety; it doesn't need a full boil to thicken.

   🔥 simmer → boil▶ 11:35

10. 10

    Serve the hot chocolate in mugs and top with a snowflake marshmallow.

    💡 The marshmallows are light as air and perfect for topping a mug.

    ▶ 13:12

This recipe was organized from the source video's transcript. Amounts follow what the video presents. Source: Oh Yum with Anna Olson on YouTube