What is Red Hots Marshmallow Frosting?
Red Hots marshmallow frosting is a unique and flavorful topping that combines the sweetness of marshmallows with the spicy, cinnamon kick of Red Hots candies. It is a creative twist on traditional frosting, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The frosting is typically made by melting marshmallows and mixing them with the crushed Red Hots. The result is a smooth, vibrant frosting that can be used on cakes, cupcakes, or other desserts.
This frosting is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors with a little heat. The recipe is simple to follow and can be ready in just a few minutes. Additionally, it adds a fun, colorful touch to your baked goods. Red Hots marshmallow frosting not only enhances the visual appeal but also elevates the flavor profile with its exciting combination of textures and tastes.
Table of contents
Ingredients for Red Hots Marshmallow Frosting
To make Red Hots marshmallow frosting, you will need the following ingredients:
- Marshmallows: Use about 2 cups of mini marshmallows. They help create the smooth and fluffy texture of the frosting.
- Red Hots candy: Crush approximately 1/4 cup of Red Hots. This candy adds the signature cinnamon flavor and color.
- Butter: 1/4 cup of unsalted butter gives the frosting a rich and creamy consistency.
- Powdered sugar: About 1 to 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar will help thicken the frosting and provide sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and complements the cinnamon notes from the Red Hots.
- Milk: Use 1-2 tablespoons of milk to adjust the frosting’s consistency, making it easy to spread.

Once you have these ingredients, the frosting can be made quickly by combining them and adjusting to your desired texture. The sweet and spicy Red Hots combined with marshmallows create a fun, flavorful frosting perfect for any treat.
How to Make Red Hots Marshmallow Frosting
Making Red Hots marshmallow frosting is simple and quick. Follow these easy steps to create this sweet and spicy topping for your desserts.
- Melt the marshmallows and butter: Start by adding the mini marshmallows and butter to a saucepan. Heat on medium-low, stirring frequently. This step ensures the marshmallows melt smoothly without burning. Once the mixture is fully melted and smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add the powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the melted marshmallow mixture. Stir well to combine. The powdered sugar helps thicken the frosting, giving it the right consistency for spreading.
- Mix in Red Hots candy: Crush the Red Hots candy into small pieces. You can crush the candy by using a food processor or placing it in a plastic bag and pressing it with a rolling pin. Stir the crushed candy into the mixture.This will give your frosting that distinctive cinnamon flavor and vibrant color.
- Incorporate the vanilla extract: Stir in the vanilla extract. It will balance out the cinnamon flavor and add a pleasant aroma to the frosting.
- Adjust the consistency: If the frosting feels too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you achieve the desired consistency. The consistency should be spreadable yet firm enough to maintain its shape.

Once finished, you can spread the frosting on cakes, cupcakes, or any other dessert. The Red Hots marshmallow frosting is now ready to enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Red Hots Marshmallow Frosting
To ensure your Red Hots marshmallow frosting turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips and tricks:
- Use fresh marshmallows: Fresh marshmallows melt more easily and give a smoother frosting. Older marshmallows may be a bit tougher to work with.
- Crush Red Hots properly: Crushing the Red Hots into fine pieces ensures an even distribution throughout the frosting. Use a food processor to crush the candies, or seal them in a ziplock bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin.
- Monitor the heat: When melting the marshmallows and butter, use low to medium heat. High heat can cause the marshmallows to burn, which may affect the texture and taste of your frosting.
- Adjust consistency carefully: If the frosting is too thick, add small amounts of milk, one tablespoon at a time. Be sure not to thin the frosting too much.
- Chill the frosting: If you’re not using the frosting immediately, refrigerate it for a short time. It helps it set better, making it easier to spread.
- Flavor variations: You can adjust the level of cinnamon by adding more or less Red Hots candy. If you want a spicier frosting, increase the amount of crushed candy.
By following these tips, you can ensure a perfect, smooth, and flavorful Red Hots marshmallow frosting every time.
Creative Uses for Red Hots Marshmallow Frosting
This Red Hots marshmallow frosting is flexible and can be used in a variety of fun and imaginative ways. Below are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Cupcakes: Top cupcakes with a generous swirl of Red Hots marshmallow frosting. The combination of the sweet frosting and spicy cinnamon flavor will be a hit at any party or event.
- Layered Cakes: Use this frosting between layers of your favorite cake for an extra burst of flavor. The vibrant color adds a festive touch.
- Cinnamon Rolls: Spread Red Hots marshmallow frosting over freshly baked cinnamon rolls. The added cinnamon flavor will complement the rolls perfectly.
- Cookies: Use the frosting to decorate sugar cookies or gingerbread cookies. The frosting’s bright color and unique taste will make your cookies stand out.
- Ice Cream Topping: Spoon some of the frosting over ice cream for an exciting, sweet-spicy twist. It pairs wonderfully with both vanilla and chocolate ice cream.
- Fruit Dip: Dip fruits like apple slices or strawberries into the frosting for a fun and flavorful treat. The sweetness and spice create a perfect pairing with fresh fruit.

These are just a few ways you can use Red Hots marshmallow frosting. Get creative and try it on other desserts to add a deliciously bold twist.
Pairing Red Hots Marshmallow Frosting
Red Hots marshmallow frosting pairs wonderfully with a variety of desserts, offering a sweet and spicy twist. For a simple yet delicious option, spread the frosting on vanilla cupcakes. The sweetness of the cupcake balances the cinnamon kick from the frosting, creating a perfect flavor combination. You can also try it on chocolate cake. The rich, deep flavor of chocolate complements the spicy notes of the Red Hots, making every bite exciting.
For a lighter dessert, pair the frosting with sugar cookies. The soft, sweet cookie base allows the frosting to shine, offering a sweet yet slightly spicy topping. Cinnamon rolls are another great option. The warm, fluffy rolls paired with the frosting create a delightful, comforting treat.
If you’re looking for something more unique, try spreading the frosting over fruit like apple slices or strawberries. The creamy, spicy frosting enhances the fresh, juicy fruit. Another unexpected pairing is with ice cream. A scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with Red Hots marshmallow frosting adds a fun, spicy twist to the classic dessert.
These pairing ideas are just the beginning. Get creative and explore other desserts to enjoy the bold and vibrant flavor of Red Hots marshmallow frosting.
Health and Dietary Considerations
While Red Hots marshmallow frosting is a delicious treat, it’s important to keep in mind some health and dietary considerations.
- Sugar content: This frosting is high in sugar due to the marshmallows and powdered sugar. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe.
- Calories: The frosting is also calorie-dense, as it contains butter and marshmallows. If you’re on a calorie-controlled diet, it’s best to enjoy this frosting in moderation.
- Allergies: Marshmallows typically contain gelatin, which may be a concern for those with dietary restrictions. If you are vegetarian or vegan, look for plant-based marshmallows to make the frosting suitable for your diet.
- Gluten: Most Red Hots and marshmallows are gluten-free. However, always check the labels to be sure, especially if you have a gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- Dairy: The frosting contains butter, making it unsuitable for dairy-free diets. You can substitute with dairy-free butter for a non-dairy version.
In conclusion, while Red Hots marshmallow frosting is a fun treat, it’s important to consider these factors depending on your dietary needs. Enjoy it in moderation, and make adjustments where necessary to fit your lifestyle.
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Red Hots Marshmallow Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
Description
This Red Hots marshmallow frosting combines the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and a spicy kick, making it a delicious topping for cakes, cupcakes, and more.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup Red Hots candy, crushed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Begin by melting the mini marshmallows and butter together in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently.
- Once melted, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Crush the Red Hots candy in a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin.
- Stir the crushed candy into the frosting mixture.
- Let it cool to room temperature before using it as a topping or frosting.
Notes
- If the frosting is too thick, you can add a teaspoon of milk to adjust the consistency.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 120kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Red Hots marshmallow frosting, marshmallow frosting, Red Hots frosting, spicy marshmallow topping1 tablespoon
Creative Ways to Serve Red Hots Marshmallow Frosting
Red Hots marshmallow frosting is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a variety of fun and creative uses. One of the easiest ways to serve it is by spreading it over a batch of homemade brownies. The combination of chewy brownies and the spicy sweetness of the frosting creates a delicious contrast. For a more playful option, serve it as a dip with fresh fruit, like apples, pears, or even banana slices. The creamy frosting pairs perfectly with the crunch and sweetness of the fruit. It also makes a delicious topping for waffles and pancakes. The frosting adds an exciting twist to breakfast, combining both sweetness and spice.
Another fun idea is to swirl it into your milkshakes. Simply spoon a generous amount of the frosting into a chocolate or vanilla milkshake for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re hosting a party, consider using it as a topping for a dessert bar, allowing guests to add a dollop of frosting on cupcakes, cookies, or other treats. This recipe is adaptable, easy to make, and always adds a fun, flavorful punch to any dish.
For a refreshing and delicious drink to pair with your Red Hots marshmallow frosting treats, check out our recipe for Whipped Maple Iced Coffee, which offers the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and bold flavor.
Conclusion
Red Hots marshmallow frosting is a fun and flavorful topping that adds a unique twist to your desserts. With its sweet, creamy texture and spicy cinnamon kick, it’s perfect for those looking to try something new. Whether you’re using it on cupcakes, cakes, or even as a fruit dip, the vibrant color and bold flavor make it a standout choice for any occasion.
However, it’s important to keep in mind the sugar content, calories, and dietary restrictions when enjoying this treat. By making a few adjustments, you can tailor the frosting to suit your dietary needs.
Overall, this recipe is an exciting and easy way to elevate your baking. So, don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with this tasty topping in various recipes.
FAQS
Can you store marshmallow icing in the fridge?
Yes, you can store marshmallow icing in the fridge. Just keep it in an airtight container for up to a week. Allow the frosting to reach room temperature before applying it.
Can you freeze marshmallow buttercream?
Yes, you can freeze marshmallow buttercream. Keep it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and rewhip before use.
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