If you’re dreaming of a dessert topper that’s lighter than air yet rich in flavor, look no further than this Fluffy Marshmallow Crème. Whether you’re filling cakes, swirling it into brownies, or dolloping it on hot chocolate, this homemade version will outshine anything you find in a jar. The texture is silky, the taste is sweet with a hint of vanilla, and it takes surprisingly little time to whip up.

Making marshmallow crème from scratch may sound intimidating, but it’s a fun and satisfying kitchen project. This recipe yields a glossy, stable crème perfect for frosting, dipping, or eating straight from the spoon (no judgment!). Best of all, you control the ingredients—no corn syrup overload or additives here.

Can I Use Egg Whites from a Carton?

Fresh egg whites are recommended for the most stable and fluffy texture. Carton egg whites often contain additives that prevent proper whipping. If you must use them, make sure they are labeled as suitable for meringues.

Ingredients for the Fluffy Marshmallow Crème

3 large egg whites (room temperature)
½ teaspoon cream of tartar
¾ cup granulated sugar
¾ cup light corn syrup
¼ cup water
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How To Make the Fluffy Marshmallow Crème

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Whites

In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the egg whites and cream of tartar. Begin whipping on medium speed until soft peaks form. Leave it running while you prepare the sugar syrup.

Step 2: Cook the Sugar Syrup

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently until sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and bring to a boil. Use a candy thermometer and heat until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage).

Step 3: Combine Syrup with Egg Whites

With the mixer running on low, slowly drizzle the hot syrup into the whipped egg whites. Once fully incorporated, increase the speed to high and beat until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and holds stiff peaks. This takes about 6–8 minutes.

Step 4: Add Vanilla

Add the vanilla extract and beat for another 30 seconds until combined.

How to Serve and Store Fluffy Marshmallow Crème

Serve immediately as a topping for pies, cupcakes, cookies, or fold into frostings and fillings. It makes a dreamy dip for fresh fruit and can even be toasted with a kitchen torch for a s’mores-inspired finish.

To store, transfer the crème to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Bring it to room temperature and rewhip briefly if needed before using.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is marshmallow crème different from marshmallows?

Marshmallow crème is soft and spreadable, while marshmallows are firm and gelatin-based. The crème is made without gelatin and stays airy.

Can I use this as a frosting?

Absolutely! It spreads beautifully and holds shape well. Great on cakes, cupcakes, or brownies.

Is it safe to eat raw egg whites?

In this recipe, the egg whites are essentially cooked by the hot sugar syrup, making it safer to eat. For peace of mind, you can use pasteurized egg whites.

Can I torch the top like meringue?

Yes! It’s delicious when slightly toasted. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the exterior just before serving.

What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?

You can test the syrup by dropping a small bit into cold water. If it forms a soft, pliable ball, it’s ready (soft-ball stage).

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If this Fluffy Marshmallow Crème has you hooked, you’ll love diving into these other irresistible sweets:

Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a rich, fruity twist.
Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars that layer cinnamon sugar and creamy filling.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars for your sweet-and-salty fix.
Decadent Carrot Cake Bars for a spiced, moist delight.
Funnel Cake Bites if you crave fairground nostalgia.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how you used your marshmallow crème. Did you swirl it into brownies or frost a cake with it? Toast it or keep it fluffy?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome too—let’s make kitchen magic together!

For more dreamy recipes daily, follow along on Pinterest @NinaDishes

Fluffy Marshmallow Crème

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: About 3 cups
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Fluffy Marshmallow Crème is a homemade dream topping with a silky texture and lightly sweet vanilla flavor. It’s ideal for filling cakes, frosting cupcakes, dipping fruit, or spooning into your favorite treats. Light, glossy, and totally irresistible.

Ingredients

3 large egg whites (room temperature)

0.5 teaspoon cream of tartar

0.75 cup granulated sugar

0.75 cup light corn syrup

0.25 cup water

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the egg whites and cream of tartar. Begin whipping on medium speed until soft peaks form.

2. While the mixer runs, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until dissolved, then stop stirring and bring to a boil.

3. Cook the syrup until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.

4. With the mixer on low, slowly drizzle the hot syrup into the egg whites. Increase speed to high and beat until thick, glossy, and stiff peaks form, about 6–8 minutes.

5. Add the vanilla extract and mix for another 30 seconds until well incorporated.