Marshmallows are a classic treat.
Marshmallows are a classic treat. They come in many shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. Marshmallows are also incredibly versatile. You can roast them over a campfire or drop a couple into a mug of hot cocoa. However you choose to eat your marshmallows, they are always delicious. Everyone loves them, but how much do we really know about marshmallows?
The Food of the Gods
Like many other things, early marshmallows were made from a plant – specifically, the root sap of the marsh mallow plant, native to parts of Europe, northern Africa, and Asia. The marshmallows were made by boiling pieces of the marsh mallow root pulp with sugar until thickened. Once thickened, the mixture was strained and cooled. As long ago as 2000 BC, the Egyptians would combine the marsh mallow root with honey, but this was a special treat reserved only for gods and royalty.
Marsh Mallow for Medicinal Purposes
The marsh mallow plant also has some medicinal qualities. Early doctors would use different parts of the plant to treat a wide variety of maladies. The roots and leaves of the marsh mallow plant could be used as a laxative. Some doctors would use it to create a poultice that could slow down inflammation. The marsh mallow roots were also used in the treatment of chest pain, coughing and sore throats, and as an ointment.
Marshmallows for Everyone!
Around 1900, marshmallows were finally available on a much larger scale. They were sold in tins as penny candy. This mass production was made possible toward the end of the nineteenth century by the invention of the starch mogul manufacturing system, which allows runner materials to be used. Originally, marshmallows were shaped with wooden machine parts; by 1911, the wooden parts had all given way to steel machinery. Eventually, the mallow root was replaced by gelatin and other whipping agents.
Marshmallow Candies from Wockenfuss
Heavenly Rocky Road Bars– We start with fresh marshmallows, then we cover them in delicious Wockenfuss chocolate and sprinkle them with pecans. The results are truly heavenly!
Carmallows– For this sweet treat, we take fresh marshmallows and dunk them in rich caramel. Carmallows are individually wrapped so you can enjoy them whenever you want!
Dark Chocolate Covered Marshmallows– These are fresh marshmallows covered in our very own dark chocolate! What’s not to love?
DELICIOUS SWEET TREATS FROM WOCKENFUSS CANDIES
Since 1915, Wockenfuss has been a family owned and operated business creating the finest confections in Baltimore, Maryland. With our nine convenient locations throughout Maryland, there is sure to be a Wockenfuss store near you. Come visit us to see our selection of summer favorites such as our gourmet truffles & chocolate specialties.
We’d be happy to help you select the perfect sweet treat, whether for you or as a gift for a loved one. If you have any questions about our sweet seasonal candies, please contact Wockenfuss Candies by calling us at 1-800-296-4414 or emailing info@Wockenfusscandies.com. When you’re not savoring our sweets, stay satisfied by following us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Pinterest too!