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Santy Gibson/Demand Media

There’s nothing quite like the gooey goodness of marshmallows when they come right off the campfire. Sure, they taste delicious, but it’s unlikely that this is going to be your go-to method when trying to achieve the perfect marshmallow creme. This means you need to know the best way to melt marshmallows that doesn’t involve a bonfire.

Best Way to Melt Marshmallows

Whether you’re making a batch of gooey cereal bars or rich peanut-butter fudge or you just want some marshmallow fluff to layer on your ice cream, knowing the best way to melt marshmallows is going to make the process a whole lot easier.

If you’re not in a rush, the best way to melt marshmallows is on the stove with a double boiler. Don’t worry if you don’t have a double boiler; you can make your own with two bowls.

To make a double boiler, start by filling the first saucepan or pot with a few inches of water. This should be the larger of the two pots. Next, place the second bowl or pot (in which the marshmallows will melt) into the pot with water. Make sure the bottom of the top pot does not touch the water.

Double-Boiler Melting Instructions

Now, you’re ready to melt marshmallows.

  1. Grease the bottom of the top saucepan.

  2. Add the desired amount of marshmallows.

  3. Place on the burner, melting on low to medium heat.

  4. Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of water to the pan with the marshmallows.

  5. Stir with a wooden spoon until smooth, between five and seven minutes.

  6. Remove from the heat and use immediately or spoon into an air-tight container.

Melt Marshmallows on the Stove

The double-boiler method is not the only way to melt marshmallows for marshmallow creme or marshmallow fluff. You can also use a single saucepan.

  1. Choose a saucepan that is big enough for the number of marshmallows you’re melting. Make sure it is deep enough so the marshmallow creme does not overflow and run down the side of the pan.

  2. Grease the bottom of the saucepan.

  3. Add the desired amount of marshmallows.

  4. Place on the burner, melting on low to medium heat.

  5. Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of water.

  6. Stir with a wooden spoon until smooth, between five and seven minutes.

  7. Remove from the heat and use immediately or spoon into an air-tight container.

Melt Marshmallows in the Microwave

When you’re in a rush, you can always melt marshmallows in the microwave. While this is not the best way to melt marshmallows, it does work, especially in a pinch.

  1. Use a large, microwave-safe bowl. As they melt, the marshmallows will take over the bowl, so make sure it is bigger than what you think you might need.

  2. Add one bag of marshmallows.

  3. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water.

  4. Put in the microwave on high for 30 seconds. Check them at the 15-second mark to make sure they are not bubbling over.

  5.  When the timer goes off, remove the bowl and stir the marshmallows.

  6. Repeat this step until the marshmallows are smooth. Make sure to scrape any melted marshmallows off the sides of the bowl.

  7. Take the bowl out of the microwave and use immediately or store in an air-tight

    container. 

How to Make Marshmallow Fluff

If you want to make marshmallow fluff at home rather than buying the stuff in the jar, all you need is a bag of mini marshmallows and corn syrup. Depending on the amount you need, the basic ratio is 1 cup of mini marshmallows to 1 teaspoon of corn syrup. Using a double boiler seems to work best when making marshmallow fluff.

  1. Put the double boiler over low heat.

  2. Add the desired amount of mini marshmallows. Mini marshmallows melt faster than larger marshmallows.

  3. After a few minutes or when they start getting sticky, add the corn syrup.

  4. Stir the marshmallow fluff frequently to avoid burning.

  5. Once smooth, remove from the pan and use immediately or store in an air-tight container.