Marshmallow Fluff
Marshmallow fluff is a light and fluffy confectionery spread similar in texture to melted marshmallows, but much smoother and easier to spread. It's made with a base of corn syrup, sugar, egg whites, and gelatin, along with vanilla flavoring and sometimes other additives. Unlike the marshmallow's slightly chewy bite, fluff is incredibly light, airy, and smooth, almost like whipped cream.
Marshmallow fluff is a classic topping for sandwiches (think fluffernutter!), toast, and waffles. It also makes a delicious filling for pies, cakes, and cookies. Some of the most recognizable brands of marshmallow fluff include Kraft Jet-Puffed, Fluff (the original brand!), and Solo Marshmallow Creme.
Contrary to popular belief, marshmallow fluff wasn't invented from leftover marshmallows! It has its own unique production process that creates its signature silky texture.
When buying marshmallow fluff, opt for well-known brands like Kraft Jet-Puffed, Fluff, or Solo Marshmallow Creme, known for their quality and consistency. Beyond the classic, explore exciting options like strawberry or chocolate fluff for a twist on your creations.
Unopened jars of marshmallow fluff can happily reside in your pantry at room temperature for up to 2 years, thanks to the high sugar content. Once opened, refrigerate the fluff in an airtight container to prevent drying or hardening. It will stay good for up to 3 months.
Whisk fluff with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a sticky-sweet glaze for grilled salmon or chicken. The sweetness balances the savory flavors beautifully.
Swirl fluff into pancake batter before cooking for fluffy pockets of sweetness in every bite. You can even top them with caramelized bananas for an extra indulgent breakfast.
Use fluff as an edible glue for gingerbread houses or cookie decorating. It's a safe and fun way to get creative with kids.
Gelatin, a protein extracted from animal collagen, is the secret behind fluff's airy texture. When whipped with air, it traps tiny bubbles, creating that light and delicate structure. Corn syrup and sugar play a crucial role. Corn syrup, with its high water content, keeps the fluff moist and prevents crystallization, while sugar contributes sweetness and helps maintain its shape.
According to legend, marshmallow fluff was born in 1917 when Archibald Query accidentally left a batch of marshmallow cream too long on the stove, resulting in a light and fluffy concoction. Though popular in the US, marshmallow fluff has fans worldwide, with variations like "fluff cream" in the UK and "marshmallow creme" in Canada.
To soften slightly hardened fluff, gently stir it with a spoon or microwave it for a few seconds on low power. Use clean utensils when scooping fluff to prevent contamination.
For extra fluffiness, whisk fluff with a little hot milk or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. This is perfect for piping or dolloping on desserts.
While marshmallow fluff can be a delicious and fun treat, its health benefits are limited and should be considered with its downsides. Marshmallow fluff provides calories and carbohydrates, offering a quick energy boost, especially when paired with protein sources.
The main concern with marshmallow fluff is its high sugar content. A one-tablespoon serving typically contains around 14 grams of sugar, exceeding the American Heart Association's daily recommended limit of 6 grams for women and 9 grams for men.
Marshmallow fluff can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, due to its high sugar content and limited nutritional value, it's important to prioritize whole, unprocessed foods for optimal health.
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