DIY Marshmallow Vending Machine
Marshmallows are the fluffy treats that make up Peeps, Mallomars, moon-pies, Rice-Krispie Treats and rocky-road ice cream. They’re actually just sugar syrup cooked to the soft-ball stage, whipped and molded into fun shapes. This project is a fun and easy way to learn how to make marshmallows yourself. And then sell them!
Build the Vending Machine
Making marshmallows isn’t difficult, but it requires careful timing and hot sugar. Having all the ingredients and equipment ready before you start will make things much easier.
Place the gelatin in a mixer bowl and pour over cold water to “bloom” it (hydrate). This is important because it will help it dissolve evenly as you whisk it with the sugar syrup.
While the gelatin is dissolving, bring the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and 1/2 cup of water to a boil in a saucepan. Attach a candy thermometer to the pan, and keep boiling until the sugar reaches the soft-ball stage, or 240°F.
When the sugar syrup reaches this temperature, it will begin to bubble and thicken, but you should still be able to draw a line with your finger across the bottom of the DIY Marshmallow Vending Machine pan. Remove from heat, and slowly pour it into the gelatin mixture in the mixer bowl while whisking. Add the vanilla and optionally the egg whites (if using). Continue whisking for about another minute, until the marshmallow batter is light and fluffy.
Fill the Vending Machine with Marshmallows
Marshmallows have a unique chew to them that adds to their appeal. They also get a lot of their flavor from the cookie base and chocolate topping they are covered with. However, the marshmallows you buy in the store have a much different texture than the ones you make at home. They’re lighter and more fluffy, and they don’t have that distinct chew you can only get by putting them in your mouth.
To create the marshmallows in your DIY vending machine, you will need a vacuum packer. The vacuum packer removes air from a storage container of marshmallows, causing them to shrink. This is a great way to learn about atmospheric pressure and how it works. You can also use this experiment with other types of foods, such as potato chips or soap bubbles.
In addition to being easy to install, the marshmallow vending machine is economical and requires little maintenance. This makes it an excellent choice for night markets, school gates, supermarkets, snack streets, communities, tourist attractions, and other crowded places. The machine can be operated with cash or bank card. There is a low investment and operating cost, and no franchise fee. It also supports background management (pattern upgrade maintenance, remote sugar making, remote switch, query paper stick inventory). It can be used for a long time and is durable.
Sell the Marshmallows
Whether they’re sprinkling marshmallows on yogurt, DIY Marshmallow Vending Machine supplier adding them to hot cocoa or forming them into cute shapes like bunnies and chicks, everyone knows that marshmallows are delicious. They also make a sweet gift. And while you may be tempted to buy your marshmallows from the grocery store, you can save some money by making them yourself at home.
Co-founders Kat Connor and Lindzi Shanks started their marshmallow business by selling their artisanal treats at bustling farmers’ markets and pop-up shops in Chicago. They tapped into their initial community to help them expand to an online retail site, and now their shop offers everything from bourbon marshmallows to s’mores kits.
The Marshmallowist was established in 2011 and currently sells a range of gourmet marshmallow flavors. They are sold in luxury retailers such as Harvey Nichols and direct-to-consumer via their website. The coronavirus outbreak has had a big impact on the business, with fewer consumers spending and increased uncertainty for start-ups.
However, they are concentrating on their online presence and building an engaged and vocal community. From going live on Instagram to sharing their business flubs on TikTok, they aren’t afraid to interact with their audience authentically. This approach has helped them build a strong community of marshmallow fans, who share their products and drive sales. In addition, they have a number of social media campaigns and giveaways to support their efforts.