DIY Marshmallow Vending Machine
Tosi challenges the bakers to create a dessert for a special occasion. Each baker produces an edible masterpiece in the time allotted. The best creation earns the baker a chance to compete in an elimination challenge.
Marshmallows may not contain any mallow sap, but they are DIY Marshmallow Vending Machine the star of Peeps, Mallomars, moon pies, Sno Balls and Rice-Krispie Treats. They are also easy to make yourself.
How to Make
A fun science experiment that can even be made as a gift for your kids, a friend or a coworker. This marshmallow catapult is super simple to make and can be adapted to suit any candy you have on hand.
You will need a few supplies to make your own marshmallow vending machine, but the rest of the materials you’ll probably already have at home. Start by taking 4 oversized popsicle sticks and hot glue them together in a square.
Line the base with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Combine the cornstarch and sugar in a shallow bowl. Set aside.
In the bowl of your stand mixer, dissolve the gelatin in 1/2 cup water. While whisking, gradually pour in the sugar syrup. Continue to beat for a few minutes, adding vanilla during this time.
When the marshmallow batter is ready, it will have a soft, smooth texture and hold its shape for several seconds before collapsing back on itself. Also, the bowl will be cool to the touch. For more details about judging when the marshmallows are ready, see page 12 of the frontmatter (or the note at the bottom of this post).
If desired, add in any additional flavoring at this point. For chocolate-dipped marshmallows, DIY Marshmallow Vending Machine factory melt about 6 oz. of bittersweet chocolate in a double boiler or in a clean metal bowl over a pan of barely simmering water, stirring until smooth. Let the chocolate cool for a few minutes, then dip the marshmallows. Transfer to a wire rack to dry.
Materials
This project uses supplies you probably already have in your home. It encourages fine motor skills, scissor skill and resourcefulness. Stuff it with little knick knacks, candy packs, Shopkins or special rolled up messages your child writes to “buy”. You can use a box from the fridge (but make sure you cut a head hole and arm holes in advance so they don’t eat all night). I used acrylic paint but wrapping paper, washi tape and even glitter would be cute too! Don’t forget a light! You could also spruce up your vending machine by adding a tap light. (optional).
The app is free and updated frequently.
Equipment
Satisfy your patrons’ sweet tooth with this individually wrapped marshmallow crispy bar featuring M&M’s. Ideal for cafeteria food lines and convenience stores, this item comes ready to use so all you need to do is display it for guests to purchase.
Encourage your kids’ fine motor skills and resourcefulness by stuffing the DIY Marshmallow Vending Machine with little knick knacks, candy packs or Shopkins that they “buy” when they insert a coin into the slot. This is a fun way to teach your kids about entrepreneurship and money. It will also help them develop a sense of responsibility as they learn to wait for the machine to fill with their chosen treat. You may need to bribe a friend’s boyfriend to cut arm and head holes in the box, as this isn’t easy to do by yourself.