Homemade Marshmallows

by Kimberly Hicks
(Chesapeake, VA, USA)

For Christmas last year, I gave a bunch of my friends little "Hot Chocolate Kits."

First, I discovered that making marshmallows wasn't all that difficult. You can find recipes online and whip up a batch pretty quick (though it does take a day to set, after you've "whipped it up").

So, around Christmastime, I went to a thrift store and found some unique mugs (you can buy them new, but I think thrift stores have the most awesome/hilarious selection of mugs!! Just make sure they don't have any cracks or chips. Match the mug to each friend's personality or interests, if you want).

I made some marshmallows (some regular, and some chocolate) and filled small cellophane bags with them, then stuck a bag, along with a couple of hot chocolate packets in each mug. To finish it off, I tied a ribbon around the mug. Oh, and you can add a candy cane to make it more Christmas-y.

Everyone loved them and most of my friends were surprised to find out that marshmallows could be made at home and that they taste WAY better than store bought 'mallows. ;)

I don't remember the exact prices of everything, but it's possible to make this gift for as little as $3 each! Fun, thoughtful, tasty, and budget-friendly!