Are Marshmallows Dairy Free? The Answer is Surprising!
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Do marshmallows have dairy?
These fluffy, pillowy treats have been a beloved staple in the hearts of many for decades. But here’s the burning question: are marshmallows dairy free?
I recently answered the question are marshmallows gluten free. A lot of people didn’t know if they are dairy free. Many people who eat gluten free also eat dairy free.
What are Marshmallows?
Marshmallows are soft, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying treats that have been cherished by both kids and adults alike.
Traditionally, they were made from the root sap of the marshmallow plant (hence the name), but nowadays, they are typically made with a few key ingredients that give them their distinct texture and flavor.
Marshmallow Ingredients
To understand if marshmallows are dairy free we need to dive into their typical ingredients. While recipes may vary, most commercial marshmallows are made with the following ingredients:
- Sugar: The main ingredient that provides sweetness and structure to marshmallows.
- Gelatin: A protein derived from animal collagen, often sourced from beef or pork, that gives marshmallows their characteristic chewy texture.
- Corn Syrup: A thick, sweet syrup derived from corn starch that aids in achieving the desired consistency.
- Modified Cornstarch: Used to dust the marshmallows so they don’t stick together.
- Water: Essential for combining and cooking the ingredients.
- Flavorings: Common flavorings include vanilla extract or other artificial flavors.
How are Marshmallows Made?
The art of marshmallow-making involves a delicate balance of heating, mixing, and whipping. The ingredients are combined, heated, and then whipped to create the light and fluffy texture we all know and love.
Once whipped, the mixture is cooled and set, resulting in the squishy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness we associate with marshmallows.
Are Marshmallows Dairy Free?
The good news is that most traditional marshmallow recipes do not contain any dairy ingredients. This means that plain, unflavored marshmallows typically do not include milk or milk-derived products.
It’s important to note that some specialty or gourmet marshmallows may incorporate dairy ingredients or additives to create unique flavors.
It’s crucial to check the ingredients list or consult the manufacturer if you have specific dietary requirements.
If the marshmallows have been dipped in chocolate then it would contain dairy.
DISCLOSURE: Not intended for the treatment or prevention of disease, nor as a substitute for medical treatment, nor as an alternative to medical advice. Use of recommendations is at the choice and risk of the reader. Ditch the Wheat is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. I only endorse products that I believe in.
Carol Lovett is the founder of Ditch the Wheat and a Globe and Mail bestselling author of the cookbook, Ditch the Wheat. She has been eating gluten free since 2010. She loves all things food, natural living, and spiritual. She's also a reiki master and crystal healer.
Gluten Free Resources
Do you need help with gluten free meals?
I recommend this meal-planning app. It makes cooking gluten free dinners extremely easy and family-friendly.
What gluten free snacks can I eat?
Lots! I have a ton of practical gluten free snack recipes in my cookbook.
How can I eat dessert on a gluten free diet?
You can 100% eat dessert while eating gluten free. Try my dessert cookbook for easy gluten free dessert recipes.
How do I know what is gluten free and what isn’t?
I have a whole section is it gluten free?
How do I make substitutions?
If you need substitution advice I created a ton of resources here.
