Gingerbread Marshmallows: A Protein-Rich, Collagen-Boosting Recipe
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Time to read 3 min
20 min
2+ hours
10
Snack/Dessert
United States
Welcome to Peace Love Hormones, AKA The Modern Woman's Apothecary! If you're looking for a delicious and medicinal treat, these marshmallows are for you. Packed with protein, collagen, and the ancient medicinal herb marshmallow root, these homemade marshmallows stand out from the store-bought versions.
Most marshmallows on shelves today are far from the traditional recipe—they lack the actual marshmallow root that gives these confections their name and are loaded with artificial ingredients. But in this recipe, we take marshmallows back to their roots, using marshmallow root to support your digestive health.
Why Marshmallow Root?
Marshmallow root (Althea officinalis) has been used for thousands of years for its healing properties. Known for its mucilage content, it helps soothe the digestive tract and support respiratory health, making it a perfect herb for cold weather months. Plus, its high protein and collagen content make these marshmallows a nourishing treat for your skin, hair, and joints.
Herbal Supplements for Women's Health:
Soothe: Designed to regulate hormones, support cycle regularity, and prevent PMS symptoms.
Crampy: If you need immediate relief from menstrual cramps, this tincture works quickly to ease discomfort.
Bitters: improves digestion and support nutrient absorption, and overall gut health.
Sleepy: promotes restful sleep and supports nervous system health.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp dried marshmallow root (+ 1/3 cup water)
- 5 egg whites
- 8 oz honey or maple syrup
- 5 tbsp gelatin
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (more if desired)
- 2 tbsp blackstrap molasses
- 5 tbsp gelatin
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp ground ceylon cinnamon
- 1/2-1 tsp ground ginger root
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
Directions
Step 1: Make the Marshmallow Root Extract
1. At least 1 hour before making your marshmallows (or even the night before), soak the marshmallow root in 1/3 cup of cold or room-temperature water. This step allows the root to release its soothing, medicinal properties.
2. When you’re ready to make the marshmallows, strain out the herb so that you’re left with the infused liquid only.
Step 2: Bloom the Gelatin
Sprinkle the gelatin powder over the marshmallow root water and let it sit for 5 minutes. This step allows the gelatin to soften and “bloom.”
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, whip the egg whites on medium-high speed until soft, firm peaks form.
Step 4: Make the Gelatin Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine the honey, blackstrap molasses, and seat salt. Heat over medium-high, stirring often, until the mixture begins to bubble and boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, remove from heat immediately.
Step 5: Combine Everything
With the mixer running on medium speed, slowly pour the hot gelatin syrup into the whipped egg whites. Then, while continuing to mix, add in the vanilla extract and each of the spices. Increase the mixer speed to high and whip until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and starts to hold shape—about 5 minutes. Once ready, fold in dried strawberries to your desired amount. Save more for topping if desired.
Step 6: Set, Cool, Store
Line a small baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the marshmallow mixture into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Let it set at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or for 30 minutes in the fridge, or until firm. Once set, store the marshmallows in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh and pillowy.
*I like to store the whole slab in the fridge and simply cut off a piece whenever I want one. The batch will last up to 7 days.
Pairing Marshmallows with Herbs for Women's Health
- Soothe: Designed to regulate hormones, support cycle regularity, and prevent PMS symptoms. It’s the perfect companion for women looking to balance their hormones naturally.
- Crampy: If you need immediate relief from menstrual cramps, this tincture works quickly to ease discomfort.
- Bitters: Great for gut health and liver detoxification, bitters can help improve digestion and support nutrient absorption.
- Sleepy: For those nights when sleep seems out of reach, Sleepy promotes restful sleep and supports nervous system health.
