Food glossary

Marshmallow

Marshmallow

These are soft, smooth sweets made from sugar and gelatine (which gives them their characteristic chewy texture). After being cut into shapes (usually rounds) they are dusted with icing sugar to give them a powdery finish that also prevents them from sticking together. They are sold in mixed packs of pink and white coloured rounds.

Uses: Marshmallows can be cut into small pieces and used for decorating cakes and biscuits. They melt easily and can be included in a variety of cake recipes. When toasted under the grill, marshmallows melt to a creamy, runny mixture inside and go a golden brown colour on the outside - they are especially delicious toasted on the end of a long stick around a camp fire (they get very hot so let them cool for a minute or two before eating).

To store: Keep in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year. Once opened keep the marshmallows in their original bag, in an airtight container.