Marshmallows are always a huge hit in our homes. A few years ago I created a basic marshmallow recipe (using optional probiotics!). I did a few spinoffs from there. This marshmallow version of rose features heart-supporting herbs like roses and hibiscus petals, and is naturally sweetened with honey.
Add dark chocolate squares and homemade grain-free graham crackers to add delicious s’more. Or eat straight out of the pot. They are sweet with tangy flower tips that make great desserts no matter how you eat them.
Love your heart with rose marshmallows
Marshmallows are probably not the first thing you think about heart health. We limit sweets, but my rule is that any dessert must have nutritional value. My original version contains real marshmallow roots and probiotics for gut health. We also made Elderberry Marshmallows and Matcha Marshmallows with beneficial herbs.
I wanted to do something fun for Valentine’s Day, so heart support herbs came to mind! However, you don’t need to save these on Valentine’s Day alone. They have a great treat all year round.
Benefits of rose petals
Most of us imagine a bouquet of roses for special occasions, but they are more than just cute flowers. Rose petals have a lovely floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral floral flor Rose water, hydrosol, rose tea, and other edible items can be made with roses.
Rose is known for her ability to emotionally support her heart, especially in times of sadness and heartache. Traditionally, it has been used to help with trauma, depression and overwhelm. Rose petals also support the nervous system and help to balance hormones to increase sexual desire and regulate the menstrual cycle. Its volatile oils help to relieve pain and anxiety.
Because it is a popular flower, there are many rose varieties available for sale. Wild Rose or Rosa Damascena does the most research behind medical benefits. If wild roses are not available to forage or grow in your garden, you can get rose petals from herb stores. Avoid using roses from florists. This is because many chemicals are sprayed and are not safe.
Heart Healthy Hibiscus
Hibiscus has a lovely tart flavor that helps balance the sweetness of the honey. I like it with these herb mocktails and I also use it with wild cherry cough syrup. It is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, giving it a sour and bright red colour.
It has traditionally been used to restore healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Hibiscus has a long history of being used to support cardiovascular health. It helps to balance hormones and also helps regulate the menstrual cycle thanks to its collecting string agent behavior.
Both roses and hibiscus are generally considered safe for most people, so I’m fine with giving them food to my kids. However, if you have any medical conditions or concerns regarding the use of the herb, talk to your natural healthcare provider.
Hibiscus Rose Marshmallow
These delicious hibiscus rose marshmallows are soft like pillows and naturally sweetened with honey. Featuring heart support herbs, they are a delicious way to love your heart!
Pour boiling water over the herbs and let it run for 10 minutes. Strain, squeeze all the liquid from the herbs and pour ½ cup of herbal tea into another bowl or stand mixer.
Let the tea cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle gelatin over the warm tea and let it bloom for a few minutes. Mix the gelatin and tea mixture.
Add the remaining ½ cup of herbal tea to the pan along with the honey. If necessary, add more water to make 1/2 cup if necessary. Bring to a boil over medium heat, boil for 7-8 minutes and stir constantly. Honey will darken some, but make it very dark and not burn.
Turn on the stand mixer or use a hand mixer for the tea/gelatin mixture. Pour in the tea/honey syrup while mixing low.
Once the honey mixture is added, turn the mixer high and whisk for another 5-12 minutes, or until a hard cream forms. If you use it, add natural food dyes. It should form soft peaks like marshmallow cream. Don’t be confused. Otherwise you may become too strong.
Once the marshmallows are whipped, immediately pour into a lining/greased dish to make them evenly smooth. Moist fingers are suitable for this.
Rest at least 4 hours (more than overnight).
Flip the cutting board and cut an oiled pizza cutter or knife into 24 marshmallows.
Nutrition Facts
Hibiscus Rose Marshmallow
Amount per serving (2 marshmallows)
102 calories
% Daily Value*
Fat 0.01g0%
Saturated fat 0.003g0%
Polyunsaturated fat 0.001g
January saturated fat 0.003g
Sodium 12mg 1%
Potassium 16mg 0%
Carbohydrates 23G8%
Fiber 0.1g0%
23g sugar 26%
4G8% protein
Vitamin A 7IU 0%
Vitamin C 0.1mg0%
Calcium 5mg 1%
Iron 0.2mg 1%
*Percent daily value is based on the 2000 calorie diet.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 weeks.
Tips for making hibiscus rose marshmallows
It may sound intimidating at first, but the process is really easy! I first do a powerful herb injection, then add gelatin to half of the herbal tea and bring the other half to a boil in honey on the stove. Add the two mixtures together and you’ll have marshmallows!
Hibiscus naturally has a bright red colour, but when the honey is cooked and darkened, the colour is less noticeable. If you don’t want white marshmallows, you can add natural red food dyes for the pink shade. I used 50 drops of natural hood colours on a very subtle pink. It’s not as strong as red dye #40, but I’m fine with that.
Once the marshmallows are dried and cut, throw them into the powder to prevent them from sticking to each other. Organic powdered sugar or arrowhead powder can be used. I blended some extra roses and hibiscus petals with arrowheads in a coffee grinder for me.
Storage: These marshmallows last about 2-3 weeks at room temperature. Do not store in the fridge as it will melt too much and will melt.
Have you ever made your own homemade marshmallows? What’s your favorite flavor you use? Leave a comment and let us know!
