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Home - Cooking - Substitutes

Latest Updated: Feb 28, 2026 by Andrew Gray

Dessert Hacks: 5 Best Marshmallow Substitutes

Swap Best Marshmallow with Marshmallow Fluff, Marshmallow Cream, Sugar-Free Marshmallows, Homemade Marshmallows (Zephyr), and Mix of Peanut Butter and Honey.

Marshmallow Fluff

Marshmallow fluff is a light, fluffy, and sweet spread that can be used in various ways.

For cooking, Marshmallow Cream also works well - adjust the amount to taste.

Marshmallows improve any dessert. Turns out, you don't always need them to whip up something awesome.

Finding the right substitute can be a solid option.

It's a bummer, right? But here's the : there are plenty of marshmallow alternatives that can fill the gap.

These swaps are not just about coping without marshmallows; they're about discovering new flavors and textures.

Stuck without your fluffy white pals?

We're diving into the five best marshmallow substitutes that'll keep your desserts on point.

Spoiler alert: some of these might already be in your kitchen.

Ready to get your dessert game back on track?

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • The 5 Best Substitutes for Marshmallows
    • 1 - Marshmallow Fluff
    • 2 - Marshmallow Cream
    • 3 - Sugar-Free Marshmallows
    • 4 - Homemade Marshmallows (Zephyr)
    • 5 - Mix of Peanut Butter and Honey
  • Frequently Asked Questions

The 5 Best Substitutes for Marshmallows

There are many reasons why you might want to substitute marshmallows in a recipe - or consult eggs in meatballs substitutes guide when binding is the goal.

Maybe you're out of marshmallows or looking for a healthier alternative.

Whatever the reason, there are several good substitutes for marshmallows.

1 - Marshmallow Fluff

marshmallow fluff Save for Later!

Marshmallow fluff is a light, fluffy, and sweet spread that can be used in various ways.

It is made from sugar, corn syrup, vanillin, and egg whites.

Marshmallow fluff is often used as a filling or topping for desserts such as cakes, cupcakes, and pies.

It can also be used to make candy or toasted marshmallows.

Marshmallow fluff is shelf-stable and does not need to be refrigerated.

However, it should be stored in a cool, dry place.

To use marshmallow fluff, spread it on top of desserts or use it as a filling.

For best results, marshmallow fluff should be used within two weeks of opening.

2 - Marshmallow Cream

marshmallow cream Save for Later!

Marshmallow cream is a type of confectionery that is made from marshmallows and other ingredients such as air, corn syrup, gelatin, and vanilla flavor.

It is usually white in color and has a light, fluffy texture.

Marshmallow cream can be used in various ways, such as in cakes and cookies or as a filling for chocolates - and sometimes a dairy swap like table cream substitutes for baking works just as well.

It can also be used to make marshmallow fluff, which is a type of spreadable candy.

Marshmallow cream is generally safe to eat, but it is essential to check the ingredients list on the package to make sure that it does not contain any allergens.

3 - Sugar-Free Marshmallows

sugarfree marshmallows Save for Later!

Sugar-free marshmallows are a type of candy that does not contain any sugar.

Instead, they are made with artificial sweeteners such as aspartame or sucralose.

Sugar-free marshmallows are often used by people who are trying to limit their sugar intake or by those who have diabetes.

While sugar-free marshmallows may have fewer calories than regular marshmallows, they are not necessarily healthier.

In fact, some studies have shown that artificial sweeteners may actually increase the risk of obesity and other health problems.

Nevertheless, sugar-free marshmallows can be an excellent way to satisfy your sweet tooth without consuming large amounts of sugar.

It is usually white in color and has a light, fluffy texture - and storage matters, so check how long marshmallows last and storage tips to keep them fresh.

4 - Homemade Marshmallows (Zephyr)

homemade marshmallows zephyr Save for Later!

Have you ever had a marshmallow that was so light and fluffy that it just melted in your mouth? If not, then you haven't had a Zephyr.

Zephyr is a type of homemade marshmallow that is incredibly popular in the US.

Unlike traditional marshmallows, which are made with gelatin, Zephyr is made with egg whites and cream of tartar.

This gives the marshmallow a distinctive texture that is both light and airy.

So how do you use Zephyr? They are perfect for roasting over a fire or adding to hot chocolate.

You can also use them to make s'mores - sandwich a Zephyr between two pieces of chocolate and graham crackers.

Alternatively, you can cut them into shapes and use them to decorate cakes or cookies.

Zephyr's airy texture pairs well with crunchy elements; homemade granola recipes to pair offers granola ideas that complement soft marshmallows.

5 - Mix of Peanut Butter and Honey

mix of peanut butter and honey Save for Later!

Honey and peanut butter is a simple yet delicious combination that can be used as a substitute for marshmallows.

The sweetness of the honey goes well with the rich flavor of the peanut butter, making it a perfect topping for ice cream, pancakes, or even just a spoonful on its own.

Honey and peanut butter can also be used to make a sticky and sweet treat that is perfect for kids (and adults) of all ages.

To make this tasty treat, combine equal parts honey and peanut butter, and then refrigerate for an hour or until firm.

Once chilled, use a fork to create small balls of the mixture, and then roll in your favorite toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Best Marshmallow?

Marshmallow Fluff, Marshmallow Cream, Sugar-Free Marshmallows, Homemade Marshmallows (Zephyr), and Mix of Peanut Butter and Honey. Use it at a 1:1 ratio in any recipe that calls for Best Marshmallow.

Is there a good swap for this ingredient?

You have several options. Marshmallow Fluff matches the original closely, while Marshmallow Cream brings a slightly different character.

Either works at a 1:1 ratio.

Are there any substitutes that are easier to find?

Yes. Check your grocery store's international or health food aisle for widely available options.

Many substitutes are pantry staples that are easier to source than the original.

What dishes work best with a substitute?

Forgiving dishes - soups, stews, casseroles, and sauces - are the best starting point. They mask small texture or flavor differences better than dishes where the ingredient is the star.

For binding alternatives in recipes, see eggs in meatballs substitutes guide for options that replace eggs. For freshness and storage guidance, consult how long marshmallows last and storage tips to extend shelf life.

Explore more: This post is part of our Ingredient Substitutes Guide.
Andrew Gray

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Andrew Gray - GustoMeadow founder

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Restaurant industry veteran sharing real recipes, honest substitutes, and tips that actually work in a home kitchen.

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