Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-490153H27M
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 packets unflavored gelatin; 1/2 cup cold water (for blooming); 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup light corn syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup water (for syrup); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup cornstarch; Blue and red food coloring; Edible marker or decorating gel (for faces); Cooking spray; Marshmallow molds or 9×9-inch pan

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

These Ghostbusters Stay Puft Marshmallows are a fun, nostalgic treat that brings the iconic Stay Puft Marshmallow Man to life in a sweet and spooky way. Perfect for Halloween parties, movie nights, or themed events, they’re soft, fluffy homemade marshmallows shaped and decorated with that classic Ghostbusters charm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how playful and creative these marshmallows are. They’re not just tasty — they’re a total conversation starter. Making them from scratch is easier than I thought, and decorating them to look like Stay Puft adds that extra magic. Kids and adults both light up when they see them. Ghostbusters Stay Puft Marshmallows

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unflavored gelatin
Cold water
Granulated sugar
Corn syrup
Salt
Vanilla extract
Powdered sugar
Cornstarch
Food coloring (blue and red)
Edible marker or decorating gel
Marshmallow molds or square pan
Cooking spray

Directions

I combine gelatin and cold water in a mixer bowl and let it bloom for a few minutes.
In a saucepan, I cook sugar, corn syrup, salt, and water over medium heat until it reaches 240°F.
I slowly pour the hot syrup into the gelatin while mixing on low, then turn it up and beat until thick and fluffy.
I mix in vanilla extract at the end.
I spray a pan or mold with cooking spray and dust it with a powdered sugar and cornstarch mix.
I pour in the marshmallow mixture, smooth it out, and let it set for several hours or overnight.
Once set, I cut the marshmallows into cubes or shape them using molds.
I decorate each with blue food coloring (for the sailor hat), red (for the ribbon), and a drawn-on Stay Puft face using edible markers or gel.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 marshmallows depending on the size. It takes about 25 minutes to prepare, plus 4–6 hours of setting time (or overnight for best results).

Variations

I’ve added peppermint or almond extract for a fun flavor twist.
Sometimes I dip them in chocolate or roll them in crushed graham crackers for extra flair.
If I’m short on time, I use store-bought marshmallows and just decorate them to look like Stay Puft.
I even add food coloring into the marshmallow mix for a pastel or themed version.

Storage/reheating

I store these marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. I keep them away from humidity to prevent them from melting or becoming sticky. No need to reheat — just enjoy as is! Ghostbusters Stay Puft Marshmallows

FAQs

Do I need a candy thermometer to make marshmallows?

Yes, I find it essential. Getting the syrup to the right temperature ensures the marshmallows set properly and have the right texture.

Can I make these marshmallows ahead of time?

Absolutely. I make them a day or two in advance and store them in a sealed container until I’m ready to decorate or serve.

How do I get the decorations to stick?

I use food coloring and edible markers for easy application. If using gel, I let it dry before stacking or storing.

Can I use molds instead of cutting by hand?

Yes, I often use silicone molds for more precise shapes. They make the decorating easier too.

Are homemade marshmallows better than store-bought?

I think so! They’re softer, fresher, and I can flavor and shape them however I want.

Conclusion

These Ghostbusters Stay Puft Marshmallows are just as fun to make as they are to eat. Whether I’m channeling my inner Ghostbuster or just love a creative treat, these marshmallows always bring the smiles — and maybe a little spooky nostalgia too.