The Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew is not just a coffee drink; it is a nostalgic, multi-sensory experience that captures the essence of a crackling campfire and translates it into an elegantly crafted beverage. This innovative creation masterfully bridges the gap between childhood memory and adult sophistication, transforming the simple, smooth foundation of cold brew coffee into a decadent, dessert-like indulgence. Imagine the deep, chocolatey, and remarkably smooth notes of slow-steeped cold brew meeting the sweet, smoky, and ethereal flavor of a perfectly toasted marshmallow.
Why Is This Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew So Popular?
The soaring popularity of the Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew is a phenomenon rooted in its powerful emotional resonance and its innovative approach to flavor pairing. Firstly, it taps into a deep well of universal nostalgia. The flavor of a toasted marshmallow is instantly recognizable and evokes fond memories of campfires, s’mores, and childhood, creating an immediate emotional connection that transcends the beverage itself. Secondly, it offers a unique and sophisticated sweetness. Unlike plain sugar or simple syrup, the toasted marshmallow flavor provides a complex, caramelized, and slightly smoky sweetness that is far more intriguing and adult-pleasing. Thirdly, it presents a textural marvel. The contrast between the bold, liquid coffee and the light, airy, and velvety marshmallow foam creates a dynamic drinking experience that is both refreshing and indulgent. Finally, its “wow” factor and visual appeal make it a social media star. The process of toasting the foam and the beautiful layered look of the final drink make it highly shareable and desirable, fueling its trendiness and appeal.
Why You’ll Love This Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew:
-
A Dessert in a Glass: It perfectly satisfies your sweet tooth while delivering a clean caffeine boost, making it the ideal afternoon pick-me-up or a decadent after-dinner coffee.
-
Surprisingly Complex Flavor: The process of toasting the marshmallows unlocks deep, caramelized notes that elevate the simple sweetness into something rich and complex.
-
Fun and Interactive Preparation: Toasting the marshmallows and creating the foam is a joyful, engaging process that feels more like a creative project than a chore.
-
Cost-Effective Gourmet Treat: A single homemade version costs a fraction of a specialty coffeehouse beverage, allowing for luxurious indulgence without the luxury price tag.
-
Impresses with Ease: Serving this drink to friends or family is guaranteed to impress, as it looks and tastes like it was crafted by a professional barista.
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Toasted Marshmallow Syrup:
-
1 cup (about 50g) mini marshmallows
-
½ cup (120ml) water
-
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
-
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
-
A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt (to enhance the flavor)
For the Cold Brew Coffee Base:
-
1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans
-
4 cups cold, filtered water
-
(Yields a concentrate; you will use about 1 cup per drink)
For the Marshmallow Cream Cold Foam:
-
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream, very cold
-
¼ cup (60ml) whole milk, very cold
-
2 tablespoons Toasted Marshmallow Syrup (from above)
-
1 tablespoon marshmallow fluff (optional, for extra body and flavor)
For Assembly & Garnish:
-
Ice cubes
-
2-3 tablespoons Toasted Marshmallow Syrup, for the glass
-
Additional mini marshmallows, for toasting and garnish
-
A kitchen torch (or your oven’s broiler)
How to Make Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew:
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for making this delightful Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew. It’s as easy as pie, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary superstar!
Step 1: Create the Toasted Marshmallow Syrup
Spread the 1 cup of mini marshmallows in a single layer on a heatproof plate or baking sheet. Using a kitchen torch, toast the marshmallows until they are deeply golden brown and smoky, turning them for even color. Alternatively, you can place them under a preheated broiler for 30-60 seconds, watching closely to prevent burning. In a small saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar. Heat over medium, stirring, until the sugar dissolves. Add the toasted marshmallows to the simple syrup. They will melt and swirl into the liquid. Continue to stir over low heat until completely smooth. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla and salt, and let cool completely. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve if any unmelted bits remain.
Step 2: Prepare the Cold Brew Concentrate
Combine the coarsely ground coffee and cold water in a large jar. Stir to ensure all grounds are saturated. Cover and steep at room temperature for 12-24 hours. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve lined with a coffee filter into a clean container. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Whip the Marshmallow Cream Cold Foam
In a tall, chilled bowl or measuring cup, combine the cold heavy cream, cold milk, 2 tablespoons of the cooled toasted marshmallow syrup, and the marshmallow fluff (if using). Using a handheld milk frother or a whisk, whip the mixture until it becomes thick, frothy, and holds soft peaks. It should be pourable but luxuriously dense. Do not overwhip into stiff peaks.
Step 4: Assemble the Drink
Take a tall glass and add 2-3 tablespoons of the toasted marshmallow syrup. Fill the glass to the brim with fresh ice cubes. Pour the cold brew concentrate over the ice, leaving about 1.5 inches of space at the top.
Step 5: Top with the Marshmallow Foam
Slowly and deliberately pour the marshmallow cream foam over the back of a spoon held just above the surface of the coffee. This technique is crucial for allowing the dense, sweet foam to float on top, creating a distinct and beautiful layered effect.
Step 6: The Final Toasted Garnish
Place a small cluster of additional mini marshmallows directly on top of the foam. Carefully use your kitchen torch to toast them until they are golden brown, bubbly, and slightly charred. This final step adds an authentic campfire aroma and a spectacular visual finish.
Step 7: Serve and Savor
Serve immediately with a straw and a spoon. The joy is in the first sip—through the layer of warm, toasted marshmallow and cool, creamy foam, down to the strong, sweetened coffee below. Encourage drinking it unstirred initially to experience the layers, then mixed for a unified flavor.
Tips for Success:
-
Chill Your Equipment: For the best foam, place your mixing bowl and frother/whisk attachment in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before whipping the cream.
-
Don’t Burn the Marshmallows: When toasting for the syrup, aim for a deep golden brown, not black. Burnt marshmallows will make the syrup bitter.
-
Use a High-Quality Cold Brew: The coffee is the backbone of the drink. A smooth, low-acidity cold brew is the perfect canvas for the sweet marshmallow flavor.
-
The Spoon is Non-Negotiable: Pouring the foam directly will cause it to sink. The spoon method is the only way to achieve a perfect, barista-style float.
-
Make Syrup in Advance: The toasted marshmallow syrup can be made days ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making final assembly quick and easy.
Equipment Needed:
-
Kitchen Torch (essential for the authentic toasted flavor)
-
Small Saucepan
-
Fine-Mesh Sieve
-
Handheld Milk Frother, Stand Mixer, or Whisk
-
Large Jar (for cold brew)
-
Tall Glasses for Serving
Variations of Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew:
-
S’mores Cold Brew: Add 1 tablespoon of chocolate syrup to the glass before adding the ice and coffee. Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed graham cracker after toasting the marshmallows.
-
Toasted Coconut Marshmallow Cold Brew: Use coconut milk in the foam and garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes.
-
Bourbon Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew: Add 1 oz of bourbon to the glass with the cold brew for a sophisticated, adults-only cocktail coffee.
-
Blended Frozen Version: Blend the cold brew, ice, and 3 tablespoons of marshmallow syrup until smooth. Top with the marshmallow foam and toasted garnish for a frozen treat.
-
Vegan Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew: Use vegan marshmallows and whip chilled canned coconut cream (the solid part) with a tablespoon of syrup to create a dairy-free foam.
Serving Suggestions for Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew:
-
The Ultimate Dessert Pairing: Serve it alongside a rich chocolate brownie or a piece of flourless chocolate cake for the ultimate chocolate-marshmallow experience.
-
Brunch Showstopper: Impress your guests by serving these as a signature drink at a weekend brunch alongside pastries and fruit.
-
Campfire-Inspired Gathering: Perfect for a summer evening get-together, bringing the campfire vibe without the actual fire.
-
Solo Indulgence: Enjoy it as a special treat while reading a book or as a luxurious start to a leisurely day off.
Prep Time:
20 minutes (plus 12-18 hours for cold brew)
Cooking Time:
10 minutes (for syrup)
Total Time:
12 hours 30 minutes (mostly inactive)
Nutritional Information:
(Estimated per serving, using 3 tbsp syrup and 1/4 of the foam)
-
Calories: ~250
-
Protein: 2g
-
Sodium: 45mg
-
Sugar: 32g
-
Fat: 12g
-
Carbohydrates: 35g
-
Fiber: 0g
FAQs about Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew:
Q: I don’t have a kitchen torch. Can I still make this?
A: Yes, but the signature “toasted” flavor will be less pronounced. You can toast the marshmallows for the syrup under your oven’s broiler (watch closely!). For the garnish, you can skip toasting the final marshmallows or use a pre-made marshmallow fluff and sprinkle with a tiny bit of cinnamon for a “warm” spice note.
Q: Can I use store-bought marshmallow syrup?
A: You can, but the flavor will not be the same. Store-bought versions lack the deep, smoky, caramelized notes of a homemade toasted syrup. The homemade version is what makes this drink truly special.
Q: My foam won’t get thick. What am I doing wrong?
A: Ensure your cream and milk are very cold. Also, using a tablespoon of marshmallow fluff provides stabilizers that help the foam hold its structure. If all else fails, a splash of liquid from a can of chickpeas (aquafaba) can be whipped in to help stabilize it.
Q: How long will the marshmallow syrup last?
A: Stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator, your homemade toasted marshmallow syrup will keep for up to 2 weeks.
Q: Can I use hot brew coffee instead of cold brew?
A: You can, but it won’t be as smooth. Chilled hot-brewed coffee can be more acidic and bitter, which will clash with the delicate marshmallow flavor. Cold brew’s mellow profile is ideal.
Final Thoughts:
The Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew is more than a recipe; it is an experience, a delightful journey that engages all the senses from the sight of the torched garnish to the aroma of smoky sweetness and the complex play of textures on the palate. It is a testament to the power of creative coffee crafting, demonstrating how a beloved childhood flavor can be reinvented with sophistication and style. This drink is a guaranteed mood-lifter, a conversation starter, and a truly special way to elevate your daily coffee ritual. So, embrace your inner barista, fire up that kitchen torch, and get ready to enjoy one of the most uniquely delicious and memorable coffee creations you will ever taste.
Print
Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew: A Smoky Coffee Drink
- Total Time: 12 hours 30 minutes
Description
Sip on a Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew! This sweet, smoky coffee drink features homemade marshmallow foam for the ultimate cozy treat
Ingredients
For the Toasted Marshmallow Syrup:
-
1 cup (about 50g) mini marshmallows
-
½ cup (120ml) water
-
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
-
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
-
A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt (to enhance the flavor)
For the Cold Brew Coffee Base:
-
1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans
-
4 cups cold, filtered water
-
(Yields a concentrate; you will use about 1 cup per drink)
For the Marshmallow Cream Cold Foam:
-
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream, very cold
-
¼ cup (60ml) whole milk, very cold
-
2 tablespoons Toasted Marshmallow Syrup (from above)
-
1 tablespoon marshmallow fluff (optional, for extra body and flavor)
For Assembly & Garnish:
-
Ice cubes
-
2–3 tablespoons Toasted Marshmallow Syrup, for the glass
-
Additional mini marshmallows, for toasting and garnish
-
A kitchen torch (or your oven’s broiler)
Instructions
Step 1: Create the Toasted Marshmallow Syrup
Spread the 1 cup of mini marshmallows in a single layer on a heatproof plate or baking sheet. Using a kitchen torch, toast the marshmallows until they are deeply golden brown and smoky, turning them for even color. Alternatively, you can place them under a preheated broiler for 30-60 seconds, watching closely to prevent burning. In a small saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar. Heat over medium, stirring, until the sugar dissolves. Add the toasted marshmallows to the simple syrup. They will melt and swirl into the liquid. Continue to stir over low heat until completely smooth. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla and salt, and let cool completely. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve if any unmelted bits remain.
Step 2: Prepare the Cold Brew Concentrate
Combine the coarsely ground coffee and cold water in a large jar. Stir to ensure all grounds are saturated. Cover and steep at room temperature for 12-24 hours. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve lined with a coffee filter into a clean container. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Whip the Marshmallow Cream Cold Foam
In a tall, chilled bowl or measuring cup, combine the cold heavy cream, cold milk, 2 tablespoons of the cooled toasted marshmallow syrup, and the marshmallow fluff (if using). Using a handheld milk frother or a whisk, whip the mixture until it becomes thick, frothy, and holds soft peaks. It should be pourable but luxuriously dense. Do not overwhip into stiff peaks.
Step 4: Assemble the Drink
Take a tall glass and add 2-3 tablespoons of the toasted marshmallow syrup. Fill the glass to the brim with fresh ice cubes. Pour the cold brew concentrate over the ice, leaving about 1.5 inches of space at the top.
Step 5: Top with the Marshmallow Foam
Slowly and deliberately pour the marshmallow cream foam over the back of a spoon held just above the surface of the coffee. This technique is crucial for allowing the dense, sweet foam to float on top, creating a distinct and beautiful layered effect.
Step 6: The Final Toasted Garnish
Place a small cluster of additional mini marshmallows directly on top of the foam. Carefully use your kitchen torch to toast them until they are golden brown, bubbly, and slightly charred. This final step adds an authentic campfire aroma and a spectacular visual finish.
Step 7: Serve and Savor
Serve immediately with a straw and a spoon. The joy is in the first sip—through the layer of warm, toasted marshmallow and cool, creamy foam, down to the strong, sweetened coffee below. Encourage drinking it unstirred initially to experience the layers, then mixed for a unified flavor.
Notes
-
Kitchen Torch (essential for the authentic toasted flavor)
-
Small Saucepan
-
Fine-Mesh Sieve
-
Handheld Milk Frother, Stand Mixer, or Whisk
-
Large Jar (for cold brew)
-
Tall Glasses for Serving
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 2g
