Homemade Sugar-free Marshmallows

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These sugar free marshmallows are light, fluffy, and easy to make. They’re a great alternative to store-bought marshmallows when you want a sweet treat without all the sugar.

They’re perfect for hot cocoa, snacking, or homemade s’mores—and you can adjust the sweetener to fit your dietary needs.

sugar-free marshmallow cubes.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you can make marshmallows without sugar, the answer is yes—and they’re surprisingly delicious.

Making marshmallows at home is also a lot of fun. It’s amazing to watch a simple mixture transform into thick, glossy fluff and then set into soft, pillowy squares that taste even better than the packaged kind.

I love fun treats, but store-bought marshmallows often contain a lot of sugar and unnecessary additives. Making them at home gives you full control over the ingredients.

We used to make these marshmallows with sugar, but now that we've gone low-carb, those days are over. But you can substitute the low-carb sweetener with a regular one if you'd like.

I love making these marshmallows with our sons. What fun to see water, sweetener, and gelatin turn into white fluffiness in a bowl, and then seeing them turn into marshmallows that tasted much better than anything I'd ever bought in a bag.

Why Make Homemade Marshmallows

  • Control the ingredients: Skip additives, dyes, and sweeteners you’d rather avoid.
  • Lower sugar option: A great alternative to traditional marshmallows when you want a sweet treat without all the sugar.
  • Flexible for special diets: Works for low-carb, keto, paleo, and more depending on the sweetener you choose.
  • Fun to make: Watching the mixture whip into fluffy marshmallow is part of the magic.
  • Perfect for treats: Great for hot cocoa, s’mores, or just enjoying on their own.
  • Save Money: Sugar-free marshmallows cost a small fortune. Making them at home is so much less expensive.

We’ve even used these to make homemade s’mores (using homemade chocolate bars), and they were a huge hit with an organic skincare expert and friend who was visiting from Australia. She'd never had s'mores before!

eating grain free S'mores with Narelle Chenery
Yummy Homemade S'mores on the beach with Narelle Chenery

Why This Recipe Works

  • Uses allulose for proper structure: Helps create a soft, fluffy texture similar to traditional marshmallows
  • No egg whites needed: Keeps the recipe simple and more allergy-friendly
  • Balanced liquid ratio: Allows the marshmallows to whip up thick and set properly
  • Whips to the right consistency: Creating that classic glossy, stable marshmallow texture

Best Sweetener for Sugar Free Marshmallows

Allulose works best for making sugar free marshmallows because it creates a soft, fluffy texture and allows them to melt and brown more like traditional marshmallows.

If you prefer a sweeter result, you can use an allulose blend (such as allulose combined with monk fruit or erythritol), but the texture may be slightly firmer.

Erythritol alone is not recommended, as it can result in a firmer, less smooth texture.

sugar-free marshmallows on wood platter.Pin

Frequently Asked Questions

Will These Sugar Free Marshmallows Roast?

Yes—if you make them with allulose, they can actually roast and brown nicely. They do tend to soften and brown more quickly than regular marshmallows, so keep a close eye on them.

Most other low-carb sweeteners will not roast the same way, though they can still get soft and gooey.

Can You Make Marshmallow Shapes?

Yes! These marshmallows work well in silicone molds.

Lightly grease the molds, then spoon or pipe the marshmallow mixture in. Let them set fully before removing.

Can You Use Other Sweeteners?

You can experiment with different sweeteners, but the results will vary.

Allulose typically gives the best texture and roasting performance. Erythritol alone does not work well, so it’s best to start with the sweetener recommended in the recipe.

What Kind of Gelatin Is Best?

Look for a high-quality, grass-fed gelatin if possible. This helps give the marshmallows the best texture, structure, and nutrition.

Substitutions for Special Diets

  • Vegan option: Agar may work in place of gelatin, but I haven’t personally tested this version, so results may vary.
  • Sweetener options: Different sweeteners can work, but texture and sweetness level will change. See recipe notes for best results.
  • Glycerin substitution: Another sweetener may work in place of glycerin depending on the version, but some experimentation may be needed.
marshmallow cubes on wood board.

Flavor and Coating Variations

It’s easy to customize these sugar free marshmallows with different flavors and/or coatings.

Cocoa Marshmallows

For a light chocolate flavor, add 1–2 tablespoons cocoa powder when mixing in the vanilla. You can also dust the finished marshmallows with cocoa powder for a richer chocolate coating.

Coconut Marshmallows

Roll or sprinkle the finished marshmallows with unsweetened shredded or toasted coconut for extra texture and flavor. This works especially well for a slightly firmer, less sticky exterior.

homemade sugar-free marshmallows with coconut topping.Pin

Berry Marshmallows

For a naturally flavored option, grind freeze-dried berries (like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries) into a fine powder using a spice grinder. Either mix the powder into the marshmallow mixture at the end of whipping or dust it over the finished marshmallows for a light fruit flavor and a nice burst of natural color.

Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, as freeze-dried fruit powders are concentrated.

Powdered Sweetener Coating

Lightly dust the marshmallows with powdered low-carb sweetener to prevent sticking and give them a classic look.

Mixed Coatings

Try combining coatings for variety—some plain, some cocoa-dusted, and some rolled in coconut. This is a fun option for serving or gifting.

Ways to Use Sugar Free Marshmallows

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These sugar free marshmallows are easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Do make sure to review the notes below for the best texture and results, especially when choosing your sweetener.

Sugar-free Marshmallows

These sugar free marshmallows are light, fluffy, and easy to make at home.
4.64 from 11 votes
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 9 dozen of marshmallows approximately
Calories: 8kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons gelatin
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 1/2 cups allulose
  • 1/2 cup hot water
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Add the cold water to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to bloom.
  • In a small saucepan, combine the allulose and hot water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until fully dissolved. Continue heating until the mixture reaches 240–245°F (soft ball stage).
  • With the mixer running on low speed, slowly and carefully pour the hot mixture into the bloomed gelatin.
  • Increase speed to high and beat for 8–12 minutes, until thick, glossy, and fluffy. The mixture should hold its shape and form soft peaks.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract (and salt, if using).
  • Beat on high until the mixture form stiff peaks (almost like beaten egg whites).
  • Pour the mixture into a lightly greased or parchment-lined 8×8 pan, or into molds. Smooth the top quickly, as it will begin setting fast.
  • Allow the marshmallows to set at room temperature for several hours, or until firm. You can refrigerate to speed this up, but avoid freezing.
  • Cut into squares using a greased knife. If needed, lightly dust with powdered sweetener or starch to reduce stickiness. Dusting with cocoa powder will do the same and will add nice flavor as well.
  • Store in an airtight container and try to keep your kiddos out of them!

Notes

  • Use allulose for best results: It creates the softest texture and allows the marshmallows to melt and brown more like traditional ones.
  • Whip until thick and glossy: The mixture should hold its shape before transferring to the pan.
  • Work quickly: Marshmallow mixture sets fast once whipped, so pour it into the pan or molds right away.
  • Grease well: Lightly oil your pan, spatula, and utensils to prevent sticking.
  • Let fully set: Allow to set in mold or pan for several hours for best texture and clean cutting.

Nutrition

Serving: 1dozen | Calories: 8kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.001g | Saturated Fat: 0.001g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.001g | Sodium: 4mg | Potassium: 2mg | Sugar: 0.1g | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.02mg | Net Carbs: 33g

Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. It may vary depending on ingredient brands, substitutions, and preparation methods. Optional ingredients are not included. Net carbs are typically calculated by subtracting fiber and sugar alcohols (such as erythritol) from total carbohydrates. This information should not be relied upon for medical or nutritional purposes.

Tips for Perfect Sugar Free Marshmallows

  • Use the right sweetener: Allulose gives the best texture and allows the marshmallows to brown when roasted. Other sweeteners may not perform the same.
  • Whip long enough: The mixture should become thick, glossy, and hold its shape. This is key for that classic fluffy texture.
  • Work quickly: Once whipped, the mixture sets fast, so transfer it to your pan or molds right away.
  • Grease everything well: Marshmallow mixture is very sticky—lightly oil your pan, spatula, and even your hands if needed.
  • Let them fully set: Give the marshmallows enough time to firm up before cutting for clean edges.

Are you a S'more or marshmallow lover too?

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Recipe Rating




 

334 Comments

  1. Do they work in rice krispy treats? I know someone with a major sweet tooth but has had to give up sugar.

  2. maybe a comment mentioning not to overbeat these. I went from creamy to lumpy almost immediately. They taste good but was trying to get the stiff peaks. The batter was nice and creamy but didn’t hold a great peak so I continued to mix and ended up with globs that set up way too quickly. Not smooth and pourable.

    1. Hi Theresa! Thanks for reading and for writing.

      I’m so so sorry that happened to you. What sweetener were you using? I have never had that happen and we have made these so many times. Please let me know!

  3. 4 stars
    Hi, thank you so much for putting in the work on this recipe. I made two batches this weekend. The first one I put mint extract instead of vanilla. Very tasty. However, I think I over mixed it. It became “deflated” I was unable to spread it out. It was a good globby mess really. Haha. Once set they were kind of the consistency of a gummy candy. We are still eating them. I cut some out in hearts and coated them with chocolate. Very good. The second batch I went by the exact recipe. Only in fear of “deflate” them agin I think I under beat it. So I’m looking forward byinmaking these again and getting the right texture down. The second batch was a little more like a spongy airy texture. Still very tasty but not the texture of a homemade marshmallow. I wondered if you had a picture perhaps or a video even of what the final “stiff peaks” looked like? Thank you again.

  4. Why isn’t vegetable glycerine on plan for THM? I follow THM & Brianna Thomas’ blog, she uses it in her ice cream recipes?

    1. Hi there. I was told it was off plan due to carbs, I’m pretty sure, but it’s OK for use in small amts like in ice creams or vanilla extract. However, in a recent search of the FB group it seems they are lightening up on the requirements. This is a quote from one of the admins. Hope that helps.

      Food grade glycerin, as this appears to be, is often used as a sweetener or to alter consistency of foods. As you can see, it has 5gm of carbs per tsp.
      As always with THM, it is your choice as to how you choose to eat, but this is very carb heavy and would make a nice sweet chocolate sauce that would no longer be skinny, I’m afraid.
      The coconut oil is what makes skinny chocolate skinny, and if you chose to add both glycerin and coconut oil, depending on amounts, you’d have a crossover at best. If you kept it to a few drops of glycerin for the whole recipe, then it would still be S, I’d think.

  5. Hi! Could you tell me the difference between using the vegetable glycerine vs. the granulated sweetener? Does the texture change at all?

    1. I haven’t ever done it totally w/ the glycerine. I’m sure there would be some difference, but no matter what they are really fluffy. I’ve even done it w/ stevia extract!

      1. How much liquid stevia would you use instead of the glycerin? I plan on using swerve for the granulated ingredient but all I have is liquid stevia for the liquid part.

        1. Glycerine is about 60% as sweet as sugar so really you could use less sugar. Just follow a liquid stevia conversion to sugar but only use about 60% and you should be good.

  6. Could you use this in its liquid state as the marshmallow sub for the traditional Rice Krispie treat?

  7. I’m a little unclear about the use of vegetable glycerin as a liquid sweetener. Is it sweet? And the Amazon link product indicates it’s use as topical. Would you mind to please clarify? Thank you.

    1. Yes, it is for consumption as well. Typically the label will say food grade but I talked w/ the company and it’s the same product as the one that used to be labeled as food grade. Hope you like it!

    1. I am so sorry! We are working on striking a balance w/ ad amounts. I have to keep some ads b/c my overhead is so high….I really wouldn’t be able to keep writing without them. But I appreciate the comment. I’m talking to my IT guy and ad people about it- hope you will come back. Can you tell me what ads you felt were problematic? Thanks again!

      1. Can these be poured into a silicone mold? Will they stick? If so, what would I use to keep them from sticking? I found a really cute bunny mold I want to use for Easter.

        1. Hi there. Good question! You will want to spray the molds w/ a cooking spray or put a light coating of veg oil in there. I will add that to the post!

  8. Have you tried to use these for rice Krispy treats? Will they melt well and then hold up to keep the rice crisp and not soggy?