So, you’ve decided to serve apple cinnamon and other fancy flavored ice cream at your picnic. You’ve also resolved to set aside your candy guilt and serve dehydrated candy as a treat topping.
However, the problem is that there are so many different types of dehydrated marshmallows on the market. Which one should you choose?
This guide is here to help you decide what type of dehydrated marshmallows you can serve as toppings for your treats at your next picnic or party!
What Is Dehydrated Candy?
Dehydrated candy refers to a number of candy products in which all water is removed from the product. This process strips away any moisture from the food and leaves behind a crispy, light textured product with an intense flavor.
This process ensures that your favorite candies don’t melt or become soft when exposed to warm temperatures. They can also be stored for long periods without spoiling. Candy companies have been doing this for years with chocolate bars, gumballs, and other candies.
Dehydrated marshmallows have become increasingly popular candy options and are a popular choice as treats and toppings. We've put together our top five picks for the best dehydrated marshmallows!
Our Top Picks for Best Dehydrated Marshmallows
Our best rated dehydrated marshmallows are as follows.
1. Sarah's Candy Factory Assorted Dehydrated Marshmallow Bits
2. By The Cup Assorted Dehydrated Cereal Marshmallow Bits
3. Hoosier Hill Farm Mini Dehydrated Marshmallows
4. Medley Hills Farm Assorted Dehydrated Marshmallow
5. Cool Mom Sprinkles Mini Marshmallows
Reviews of the Best Dehydrated Marshmallows
Sarah's Candy Factory Assorted Dehydrated Marshmallow Bits
Do you love marshmallows that come in different flavors? If so, then this is the product for you! These aren’t just ordinary marshmallows. These have been dehydrated to perfection and come in fun colors!
If you love chewy desserts, these marshmallows will make the perfect treats! These can also be melted to be used as icing on cakes, brownies, pies, or potato casseroles for a delicious variety.
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These dehydrated marshmallows are another great option for your cereal and are an excellent option on the market today! This product comes in vanilla flavor and contains a variety of colors that make it more eye-pleasing.
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The small size of these marshmallows make them great for toppings! They come in vanilla flavor, guaranteed fresh, and made in the USA. If you're looking for dehydrated candy that's rich in taste but light on calories, these marshmallow bits will be perfect!
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Medley Hills Farm is a brand that you can trust for high-quality products. That means that these marshmallows have no preservatives to ensure freshness.
If you’re looking for a variety of flavors, then this is the product for you!
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These aren't your ordinary marshmallows. They've been dehydrated to perfection and come in bright hues and different sizes. The colors for these marshmallows are directly inspired by St. Patrick's Day celebrations!
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Buyer's Guide to Buying Dehydrated Candy
In the quest for the perfect dehydrated marshmallow, there are many factors to consider.
Packaging
You should consider whether the container of the marshmallow you want to buy can be sealed or not after opening. Some dehydrated marshmallow packages come in resealable bags, while others do not.
Those that don’t come with resealable bags will be prone to exposure to moisture, oxygen, and light if they aren’t consumed on time. Exposure to all these elements can lead to deterioration and discoloration.
Candies which come in air-tight containers are best suited for long-term use, in so far as you can be sure that you keep excessive air and moisture from entering it when in storage.
Size of the Package
Another factor to consider is how many servings are contained in each package.
Some people only need a small individual portion per serving. As such they may be reluctant to purchase an entire pound bag because that would be wasteful and expensive for them if they can't finish all of their candy before its expiration date!
Sugar Content, Ingredients, and Possible Allergens
You need to read the label carefully. Is this product sugar-free? Does it contain high fructose corn syrup? What are the ingredients?
If you or someone in your family has celiac disease, food allergies, and/or other dietary restrictions then you'll want to pick up on this factor.
If there's anything with gluten listed, which may be disguised by names like maltodextrin, those who are gluten-free could become very sick.
You also need to check whether the product contains any allergens. Some examples of common allergens found in commercially produced foods include peanuts and dairy products.
Price
Another factor which cannot be overlooked is the price of the candy product. Some people prefer not to pay a lot for a pound of candies because they don't think that it’s worth it.
Others won’t mind paying much if the quality, taste, and size of the package was superior enough in comparison with similar products available on shelves where they would like to buy their dehydrated candies.
Decide what your priorities are before you start shopping for candies! The last thing you want is buyer's remorse.
Flavor
The variety in flavors of dehydrated candy is typically limited, but the best brands often have a good assortment. Consumers should look for products that offer interesting flavors instead of just the typical chocolate or vanilla options.
FAQs for Dehydrated Candies
Does Dehydrated Candy Have Any Benefits?
In short, yes it does. Dehydrated candies have lower risk of spoilage, help in waste reduction, have a lower risk of contamination, among other benefits.
How Long Does Freeze Dried Candy Last?
When stored correctly, freeze dried candy can preserve your favorite candies for up to 25 years. It's a good idea to include an oxygen absorber into your frozen freeze dried candy package in order to preserve all of the texture and taste that is present within them.
Does Freeze Drying Retain Your Candy's Nutritional Value?
The dehydrating process retains your candy's original nutritional value. However, dried candy loses its water content, so it’s usually smaller in size and has more calories by weight.
How Do You Freeze-Dry Candy?
First, you should get a reliable food freeze-dryer. Next, ensure that the candies are in small chunks if they are not small already. Then place the candies on the freeze-drying tray and spread them out evenly. Now, slide the tray into the machine and switch it on!
How Do I Rehydrate Dehydrated Marshmallows?
Rehydrating dehydrated marshmallows is easy. Simply place them in a bowl and pour hot water over them. Let the mixture sit for about five minutes and drain away any excess water before serving. That’s all there is to it!
How Should I Store Dehydrated Marshmallows?
You should store dehydrated marshmallows at a constant room temperature in a dark place. If your area generally has high humidity, make sure to store them in an airtight container in order to prevent moisture from entering.
In order for a dehydrated marshmallow to maintain its shape and flavor, it should always be stored at an ambient temperature and at an adjustable temperature setting.
Can You Dehydrate Store-Bought Marshmallows?
Yes, you can dehydrate store-bought marshmallows. You'll want to cut them up into small pieces before layering them on wax paper in your dehydrator. Make sure they have plenty of space between them!
Vacuum drying is a popular form of drying method. Another option for dehydration is leaving the candy in direct sun.
What Is the Best Method for Drying?
The best method for drying is the freeze-drying process. This process removes any amount of water present in the candy by reducing the temperature to a very low level.
Drying time may vary from 24 - 48 hours depending on the type and amount of moisture present in the candy!
Can Dehydrated Marshmallows Be Rehydrated?
Yes, they can! If you're wondering what's the best way to go about this and how many gallons of water would even be needed, we recommend microwaving or soaking in clean warm water for about 8 - 18 hours.
However, you need to make sure to control water activity by inspecting your candy from time to time.
Why Are My Marshmallows Sticky?
When humidity is present in the container, your hard candy will absorb any moisture. In this situation, vacuum-drying can be used to absorb moisture and prevent the candy from sticking to its packaging or wrapping material.
Is There a Way to Unstick Marshmallows?
Both dehydrated and freeze dried treats have the potential to be sticky on flat surfaces.
You may want to use a spatula or similar kitchen tools to cut away marshmallows if they become stuck on dehydrator trays. To make this easier, spray your work surface with cooking oil before cutting out the shapes. Next, wait an hour or two to let the spray evaporate before proceeding further.
If you intend to dehydrate your marshmallows, you can use parchment paper in order to prevent any sticking to the dehydrator.
Do Dehydrated Marshmallows Shrink?
Yes, they do. Dehydrated marshmallows will shrink in size, but will maintain their original shape.
This shrinking is due to the removal of moisture content during the dehydrating process. When heated back up to their original serving size, they'll puff back up like new!
Where Should I Store Marshmallows?
Dehydrated candy can be stored in the same place as other foods. Dehydrated marshmallows, like other dehydrated foodstuffs, should be kept in a sealed container, away from heat and moisture.
This will lengthen the shelf life of all dehydrated foods. If you're storing these types of food items in jars, try to use glass or stainless steel containers that don't allow light into them. Airtight snap-on lids are recommended for this type of storage in order to keep any unnecessary air out.
How Can I Prevent Marshmallows From Melting?
The best way to keep dehydrated marshmallows from melting is by storing them in a place free from heat. This is why you need to store your treats in a cool, dry place.
Conclusion
When deciding what dehydrated candy to serve as treats at your picnic or party, always consider your budget, allergies, and the possibility of resealing the marshmallow's container!
With all these factors in mind, you’re well on your way towards making the best decision as to what delight you should treat yourself to!
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