Are Marshmallows Vegan? What To Know And Easy Plant-Based Alternatives

Marshmallows are one of those treats that seem like they should be vegan at first glance. 

They’re soft, sweet, and don’t obviously contain anything animal-based, so it’s easy to assume they fit into a plant-based lifestyle.

In reality, though, most traditional marshmallows aren’t vegan (sob). 

In this guide, we’ll break down why, look at how vegan marshmallows are made, and share simple swaps that work just as well for everyday plant-based treats at home.

Why Marshmallows Aren’t Usually Vegan

The main reason marshmallows aren’t vegan comes down to one key ingredient: gelatin.

Gelatin is derived from animal collagen, typically taken from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of pigs or cows. It’s what gives marshmallows their signature soft, bouncy texture.

Alongside gelatin, many marshmallows also contain sugar that may be processed using bone char, which is another reason some vegans choose to avoid them.

Because of this, standard marshmallows found in most supermarkets aren’t considered suitable for a vegan diet.

Are Vegan Marshmallows Available?

Yes, and they’re much easier to find now than they used to be.

Vegan marshmallows replace gelatin with plant-based gelling agents. The most common is agar-agar, which comes from seaweed and creates a similar firm yet soft texture.

Some versions also use ingredients like carrageenan or starches to achieve the right consistency. The goal is the same: to recreate that familiar melt-in-your-mouth feel without using animal products.

You’ll find vegan marshmallows in many health food shops and increasingly in larger supermarkets too. They tend to work in the same way as traditional marshmallows, so you can toast them, add them to hot chocolate, or use them in baking.

How Are Vegan Marshmallows Made?

Vegan marshmallows are made by replacing gelatin with plant-based ingredients that can create structure and softness.

A typical method starts with a sugar syrup, which is heated and then combined with a gelling agent like agar-agar. This mixture is whipped to incorporate air, giving marshmallows their light, fluffy texture.

Some recipes also use aquafaba (the liquid from chickpeas) as a whipping base. When whipped, aquafaba behaves similarly to egg whites, helping to create that airy consistency.

Once whipped, the mixture is poured into a tray, left to set, and then cut into pieces. The result is a marshmallow that looks and feels very similar to the traditional version.

Simple Vegan Alternatives to Marshmallows

If you don’t have vegan marshmallows on hand, there are still ways to recreate the same kind of sweetness and texture in recipes.

For hot chocolate, a swirl of whipped coconut cream or a spoon of dairy-free whipped topping can give a similar finish.

In baking, especially for things like rocky road or crispy treats, you can use vegan marshmallows or swap in soft fudge-style pieces made from coconut milk and sugar.

For s’mores or desserts, vegan marshmallows are usually the best option because they toast and melt in a similar way, but you can also get creative with chocolate spreads or soft caramel-style fillings.

How to Swap Marshmallows in Everyday Recipes

If a recipe specifically relies on marshmallows for structure, like Rice Crispies treats do, it’s best to use vegan marshmallows directly. They behave in a very similar way when melted.

For toppings or mix-ins, you’ve got more flexibility. You can replace marshmallows with chopped vegan sweets, chocolate chunks, or even dried fruit, depending on the recipe.

For families, this is one of those swaps that’s easy once you’ve found a version you like. Vegan marshmallows tend to taste very similar, so they usually go down well without much adjustment.

Making the Switch at Home

Marshmallows often show up in small, familiar moments like hot chocolate, baking days, or weekend treats. Swapping them out doesn’t need to change those routines.

Keeping a pack of vegan marshmallows in the cupboard means you’re always ready for those moments, without needing to think twice about ingredients.

If you enjoy making things from scratch, homemade vegan marshmallows can also be a fun project, especially if you’re cooking with kids.

Final Thoughts

Marshmallows aren’t usually vegan because they contain gelatin, which comes from animal collagen.

The good news is that vegan marshmallows are widely available and work in much the same way. 

You can also find simple alternatives for everyday recipes, making it easy to keep your kitchen fully plant-based.

Once you’ve made the switch, it quickly becomes part of your normal routine — and those little treats can stay exactly as enjoyable as before.

Frequently Asked Questions