Quick Answer
Yes, marshmallow fluff can be substituted for marshmallows in many recipes. Marshmallow fluff has a similar sweet flavor and soft, fluffy texture as marshmallows. However, there are a few differences to keep in mind when substituting marshmallow fluff for marshmallows:
– Marshmallow fluff is much softer and more spreadable than marshmallows. Recipes like rice cereal treats may not hold their shape as well with fluff.
– Marshmallow fluff is stickier than marshmallows. It may need some powdered sugar or corn starch added to reduce stickiness.
– Marshmallow fluff contains more air whipped in, so it is lighter and fluffier. Use about 25% less fluff by volume than you would marshmallows.
– Marshmallow fluff will melt faster than marshmallows when heated. Reduce oven temperature slightly and watch carefully if baking.
– For s’mores and other recipes where marshmallows are toasted or browned, use extra caution as fluff can burn faster. Toast briefly.
So in most recipes, you can swap equal volumes of marshmallow fluff for marshmallows. Just be aware that the texture may be a bit different and the fluff may react differently to heating or toasting. Reduce volume slightly and adjust heat/cook times as needed.
Marshmallow Fluff Overview
Marshmallow fluff, also known as marshmallow creme, is a soft, fluffy, marshmallow-like confection. It has a light, vanilla flavor and is used as an ingredient in a variety of desserts and treats. Here is some background on marshmallow fluff:
– Marshmallow fluff is made by whipping sugar, corn syrup, and egg whites to create a stable, fluffy emulsion. Air is incorporated to give it a light texture.
– It was invented in the early 1900s by the Durkees company. The original version was a bit firmer and was sliced and sold as a confectionery treat.
– Today, most marshmallow fluff is sold in jars as a smooth, spreadable creme. Kraft’s Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Fluff is the leading brand.
– Marshmallow fluff has a soft, creamy, sticky texture similar to a marshmallow. However, it incorporates more air so it is lighter and fluffier.
– Since it is packaged as a creme, marshmallow fluff is much softer and more spreadable than whole marshmallows.
– It has a sweet vanilla flavor similar to marshmallows. However, the flavor is a bit milder.
– Marshmallow fluff contains egg whites so it does have a small amount of protein, unlike pure marshmallows which are egg free.
– Fluff can be used as a topping, in baking, in candy making, and as an ice cream mix in. It is popular in fudge and dessert recipes.
So in summary, marshmallow fluff has a similar taste and texture to marshmallows, but it is lighter, fluffier, and more spreadable due to its packaging as an aerated creme rather than a solid marshmallow.
Substituting Marshmallow Fluff for Marshmallows
Marshmallow fluff can be used to replace marshmallows in many recipes. Here are some tips for successfully substituting fluff for marshmallows:
Measurements:
– Marshmallow fluff incorporates more air than marshmallows. Use about 3/4 cup fluff for every 1 cup marshmallows.
– For recipes where marshmallows are weighed, use approximately 25% less marshmallow fluff by weight.
Texture:
– Fluff is much softer so recipes may not hold their shape as well. Reinforce with starch or chopped marshmallows if needed.
– Add a small amount of powdered sugar or corn starch to reduce stickiness if needed.
– Freeze briefly to firm fluff up before cutting or shaping if desired.
Cooking:
– Marshmallow fluff melts faster than marshmallows. Reduce oven temperature by 25°F.
– Watch carefully when toasting or browning as fluff can burn faster than marshmallows.
– For best results, toast briefly under broiler or with kitchen torch rather than over open flame.
Storage:
– Marshmallow fluff may weep or separate slightly during storage. Stir before using.
– Due to higher moisture content, fluff may spoil faster than marshmallows. Refrigerate after opening.
So with some small adjustments to the quantity, texture, and cooking process, marshmallow fluff can successfully be used as a substitute for marshmallows in recipes ranging from hot cocoa to s’mores to Rice Krispie treats.
Recipes Using Marshmallow Fluff
Here are some popular recipes that use marshmallow fluff:
Fluffernutter Sandwich – Peanut butter and marshmallow fluff on white bread. A New England classic!
Rice Krispie Treats – The classic snack, using marshmallow fluff instead of marshmallows.
Fluff Pops – Lollipops or cake pops with marshmallow fluff coating.
Rocky Road Fudge – Fudge with marshmallow fluff and nuts swirled in.
Cocoa Fluff Marshmallows – Homemade marshmallows made with marshmallow fluff.
Fluffernutter Brownies – Brownies topped with marshmallow fluff and peanut butter.
Fluff Puppy Chow – Chex mix coated in a creamy marshmallow fluff coating.
Marshmallow Fluff Frosting – Fluffy vanilla frosting for cakes and cupcakes.
Fluff Fruit Dip – Sweet dip for fruit made with marshmallow fluff and cream cheese.
Lucky Charms Treats – Chewy no-bake bars with marshmallow fluff and Lucky Charms.
S’mores Pops – Graham crackers, chocolate, and fluff on a stick.
So marshmallow fluff adds a light, fluffy texture and sweetness to all kinds of dessert recipes!
Nutrition Comparison
How does marshmallow fluff compare nutrition-wise to regular marshmallows? Here is a nutrition overview:
| Nutrition Facts | Marshmallow Fluff (2 tbsp) | Marshmallows (5 large) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 100 | 60 |
| Fat | 0g | 0g |
| Carbs | 24g | 15g |
| Protein | 1g | 0g |
| Sugar | 21g | 13g |
As you can see, marshmallow fluff is fairly comparable to marshmallows in nutrition. The main differences:
– Marshmallow fluff is higher in calories and carbs for an equal serving size. This is because it incorporates more air.
– Fluff contains a small amount of protein since it is made with egg whites, unlike plain marshmallows.
– Both contain very little fat. Their calories come almost entirely from sugar.
So marshmallow fluff can be used as an occasional fun treat, like marshmallows. Due to the high sugar content, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet. The light, fluffy texture makes it ideal for creating desserts and snacks!
Buying and Storing Marshmallow Fluff
Marshmallow fluff can usually be found near the marshmallows or ice cream toppings in the baking aisle of grocery stores. Here are some tips for buying and storing it:
– Look for leading brands like Kraft Jet-Puffed or Durkee-Mower’s for the best quality.
– Check the “best by” date and pick the freshest jar.
– Once opened, store fluff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
– If fluff separates, simply stir before using to reincorporate.
– For longest shelf life, store unopened jars in a cool, dry place.
– Heat and humidity can cause fluff to weep liquid or lose its fluffiness.
– Look for special holiday flavors like pumpkin spice or peppermint around seasonal holidays.
So look for marshmallow fluff in the baking aisle to use in recipes or enjoy on sandwiches and snacks. Follow storage tips to keep it fresh and fluffy. Shake or stir before using if any liquid has separated out.
Conclusion
Marshmallow fluff can be used to replace marshmallows in many recipes thanks to its similar sweet vanilla flavor and soft, pillowy texture. Simply use about 3/4 cup fluff for each cup of marshmallows, reduce oven temperature slightly, and watch closely when toasting or browning. Adjust for the softer, stickier, and fluffier texture as needed. Have fun getting creative with marshmallow fluff in desserts, snacks, candies, and treats! Just enjoy in moderation as an occasional sweet treat.