Apple marshmallows, or zephyr, originated in 19th century Russia. They combine baked apple purée, whipped egg whites, and sugar, creating a light and fluffy treat. To make them, you'll bake apples, whip egg whites, and combine everything with agar for texture. These gluten-free delights are perfect for parties or celebrations, and they bring a unique twist to desserts. Want to learn more about their history and how to make them? Keep exploring!
History
The history of apple marshmallows, known as zephyr, takes you back to traditional Russian confectionery, where clever cooks transformed fruit purées into light, airy sweets with egg whites and sugar.
Explore the delightful history of zephyr, the airy Russian marshmallow crafted from fruit purées, egg whites, and sugar.
Originating in the 19th century, zephyr showcased an array of fruits, but apple stood out for its delightful flavor and widespread availability.
Unlike typical marshmallow recipes, zephyr utilizes agar as a gelling agent, resulting in a unique texture that sets it apart.
This tasty treat gained traction in Eastern Europe, becoming a beloved snack often enjoyed with tea or during celebrations.
Today, as modern cooks rediscover traditional recipes, apple marshmallows have seen a resurgence, appealing to various dietary preferences while maintaining their nostalgic charm.
Recipe
Making apple marshmallows is a delightful way to enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor of apples in a fluffy, airy treat. Begin by preparing a thick applesauce using baked apples. Baking the apples enhances their natural sweetness, resulting in a richer flavor for your marshmallows.
Once your applesauce is ready, combine it with chicken protein to create a light and fluffy texture that will elevate your marshmallows to a whole new level.
The next step involves creating a syrup that will bind all the ingredients together and give your marshmallows their characteristic chewiness. Mixing sugar, water, and agar, then boiling the mixture until it reaches a precise temperature is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
Be vigilant during this process to avoid crystallization, which can ruin the texture of your marshmallows. Once everything is combined and whipped to perfection, pipe the mixture onto bakery paper, and let it dry at room temperature to set.
Ingredients:
- Baked apples (for applesauce)
- Chicken protein
- Sugar
- Water
- Agar
Instructions:
Start by preparing a thick applesauce from your baked apples and set it aside to cool.
In a skillet, combine sugar, water, and agar, then bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until it reaches 110°C.
While the syrup is boiling, whip the cold applesauce with the chicken protein until stiff peaks form. Gradually pour the hot syrup into the whipped mixture while continuously beating until well combined and fluffy.
Once the mixture is ready, pipe it onto bakery paper and allow it to dry at room temperature for at least 24 hours to ensure proper setting.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your apple marshmallows, consider experimenting with variations such as adding lavender or berry purees.
Simply replace the water in your syrup with herbal decoctions or fruit purees to create unique flavor profiles. Additionally, ensure that your utensils and mixing bowl are completely clean and dry, as any moisture can affect the whipping process and the final texture of your marshmallows.
Cooking Steps
To get started on your apple marshmallow, you'll first prepare the apple puree mixture by baking and straining the apples.
Next, whip the egg whites until they reach stiff peaks, then fold in the apple puree for that delicious flavor.
Finally, chill the mixture for an hour before piping it into fun shapes.
Step 1. Prepare Apple Puree Mixture
Start by washing the apples thoroughly and cutting them in half, removing any seeds or cores before placing them in a baking pan filled with water.
Bake the apples at 350°F for about an hour until they're soft and easily pierced with a fork.
Once baked, press the cooked apples through a strainer to create a smooth apple purée. You might want to refrigerate it overnight to remove excess moisture.
When you're ready, make sure the apple purée is at room temperature.
In a stand mixer, combine the cold apple purée with egg whites, beating until soft peaks form.
Gradually add white sugar to create a fluffy meringue texture, ensuring everything blends smoothly for your delicious apple marshmallow.
Step 2. Whip Egg Whites Until Stiff
Whip those egg whites until they reach the perfect stiff peak consistency!
Start by making sure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean; any grease can ruin your effort. Use room-temperature egg whites for better volume and fluffiness.
Begin whipping on low speed to create a frothy texture, then gradually whip on medium-high speed to incorporate air efficiently.
Once frothy, add sugar gradually. This sugar might take about 5-10 minutes to dissolve fully before you achieve those stiff peaks.
Keep a close eye on the egg whites, stopping when they hold their shape and form peaks that don't droop.
Now you've got the perfect base for your delicious marshmallows made from scratch!
Step 3. Fold in Apple Puree
With those perfect stiff peaks ready, it's time to fold in the apple puree.
Make sure your apple puree is at room temperature; this prevents the meringue from collapsing due to temperature differences.
Using a gentle folding technique, take a spatula and gradually add small amounts of the puree to your whipped egg whites.
Be careful not to deflate the mixture—you're aiming to keep it light and airy.
Ensure the apple puree is smooth and free of lumps for even distribution throughout the marshmallow.
As you fold, look for a uniform color and consistency.
The puree should blend seamlessly without any streaks, creating a delightful combination that enhances your marshmallow's flavor and texture.
Step 4. Chill Mixture for One Hour
Chilling the mixture for one hour is crucial for achieving the perfect apple marshmallow. After you've prepared the mixture, make sure to spread it evenly in the pan. This helps it set uniformly once you remove it from the fridge.
Covering the mixture is essential during this time to prevent it from absorbing any odors lurking in your refrigerator. As it chills, the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful treat.
This step is vital for achieving that desired soft and fluffy texture characteristic of marshmallows. So, don't rush this process; it'll pay off in the end when you enjoy your delightful apple marshmallows!
Step 5. Pipe Mixture Into Shapes
Once the mixture has chilled and reached a thick consistency, it's time to pipe it into fun shapes.
Prepare a pastry bag fitted with a large round or star tip for easier application. Transfer the marshmallow mixture into the bag, then pipe the mixture onto parchment paper in 2-inch round rosettes or your preferred shapes.
Make sure to space them apart for even drying. Allow the piped marshmallows to set at room temperature for about 4-5 hours until they become firm to the touch.
Once they've set, dust the marshmallows with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and enhance their appearance.
Enjoy your beautifully shaped apple marshmallows!
Final Thoughts
Apple marshmallows offer a delightful twist on traditional treats, combining the sweetness of apples with a light, airy texture. These gluten-free desserts aren't only fun to make but also versatile.
Apple marshmallows blend the sweetness of apples with a light, airy texture, making them a fun and versatile gluten-free treat.
When you make marshmallows, using agar instead of gelatin ensures everyone can enjoy them. The process is simple: dissolve agar in water over medium heat, then combine it with no-sugar-added apple sauce and whipped egg whites.
After piping the mixture into shapes, let it set for 4-5 hours at room temperature. To preserve your apple marshmallows, store them in an airtight container, keeping their fluffy texture intact.
Experiment with different fruit purees or zests to customize flavors, making them perfect for any occasion or palate. Additionally, consider incorporating chia seeds for added health benefits and texture, elevating your marshmallow experience even further.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Nougat Vs Marshmallow?
Nougat and marshmallow are both sweet treats, but they're quite different.
Nougat's chewy and dense, made from sugar, honey, and nuts, while marshmallow's light and fluffy, combining sugar, egg whites, and gelatin.
You'll notice nougat's higher fat content due to nuts, whereas marshmallow is fat-free.
Nougat often appears in candy bars, while marshmallow typically tops desserts.
Understanding these differences can help you choose the right treat for your cravings!
What Is Fallen Apple Dessert?
Fallen Apple Dessert, or Apple Zephyr, is a delightful Russian confection you'll love.
You start by baking apples and creating a purée, mixing it with whipped egg whites and sugar for that fluffy texture.
After baking at a low temperature for hours, you achieve a chewy consistency perfect for layering or shaping.
Feel free to add spices or other fruit purées for a twist.
Enjoy it with tea, and store it in an airtight container!
[DIRECTIONS]:How Do You Eat Fruit Marshmallows?
You've got these delightful fruit marshmallows, but how do you enjoy them? Start by savoring one on its own; the soft, chewy texture will surprise you.
Want something more? Toss them on ice cream for a tasty contrast or stir them into your hot chocolate, watching them foam up.
Feeling adventurous? Try them in s'mores for a fruity twist, or skewer them with fresh fruit for a colorful treat.
The possibilities are endless!
What Is Mashed Apple Called?
Mashed apple is commonly called applesauce. You make it by cooking peeled and cored apples until they're soft, then mashing or blending them to your preferred consistency.
You can sweeten it or add spices like cinnamon for extra flavor. If you're looking to cut down on sugar, unsweetened applesauce is a great option.
It's nutritious, retaining many vitamins and fibers from whole apples, making it a healthy addition to your meals or snacks.
