Homemade Marshmallows

• 3 envelopes (3 tablespoons) unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 cup and 1/2 cup water, separated
• 1-1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1-1/4 cups light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Parchment paper, cooking spray, powdered sugar

Directions:

1. Line 7×11-inch dish with parchment paper. Spray with cooking spray. Dust with powdered sugar.
2. Sprinkle gelatin over 1/2 cup water in large mixing bowl.
3. Stir together sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 1/2 cup water in a medium sauce pan over medium heat. Cook, stirring often, until candy thermometer 240 degrees (12 to 15 minutes). Lower heat as necessary to keep mixture from boiling over.
4. Gradually add hot sugar mixture to gelatin mixture, beating at medium-low speed. Gradually increase speed to high, and beat about 7 minutes until mixture is very thick. Stir in vanilla.
5. Working quickly, spread mixture into prepared dish. Spray spatula with cooking spray and smooth top.
6. Dust with powdered sugar. Let stand in a cool, dry place about 24 hours.
7. Cut into squares with a knife dusted with powdered sugar between each cut.

Peppermint Marshmallows: Substitute peppermint flavoring for vanilla. In step 4, add 4 drops (or more) red food coloring (or gel if you have it).