Marshmallow Jack-o'-Lantern Cookies

Transform ordinary cookies into adorable marshmallow jack-o'-lanterns with this fun Halloween treat!

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These steps show how to prepare a homemade orange marshmallow from scratch using gelatin, sugar, and egg whites. The marshmallow is whipped to a light, fluffy consistency and flavored with vanilla. It's perfect for shaping into pumpkin decorations on chocolate wafers.

Directions

Combine the powdered sugar and powdered food coloring by sifting them together, then whisk thoroughly.

Grease a 9x13x2-inch pan with oil and coat the bottom and sides with powdered sugar. Set the pan aside.

Pour 1/2 cup of cold water into the mixer bowl, then sprinkle the gelatin over it. Let it sit to soften.

In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining water, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over low heat, stirring now and then, until everything is fully dissolved.

Increase the heat to medium-low or medium and bring to a boil. Let it boil without stirring until a candy thermometer reads 240°F (the soft ball stage), which should take about 10 to 12 minutes.

Take the saucepan off the heat and pour the hot syrup over the softened gelatin. Stir until the gelatin has dissolved completely.

Using the whisk attachment, beat the mixture on high speed until it turns white, thick, and at least doubles in volume, about 6 to 8 minutes.

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.

Add the beaten egg whites, vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of powdered food coloring to the marshmallow mixture. Beat just until combined.