Dipped Marshmallows Sprinkles

The kitchen counter was covered in rainbow flecks, my daughter standing on her tiptoes to reach the sprinkles. We'd been planning this simple treat all week, ever since she spotted something similar at a birthday party and declared it the most amazing thing she'd ever seen. Sometimes the most modest projects create the biggest excitement.

I made these for a neighborhood gathering last spring, setting up a little dipping station on the patio. The kids gravitated immediately, but what surprised me was how the adults kept finding reasons to wander over. There's something about sprinkles that makes everyone feel six years old again.

Ingredients

• 20 large marshmallows: Fresh ones work best as they hold their shape when pierced with sticks
• 200 g semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips: Choose whatever you prefer eating straight from the bag
• 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil: This makes the chocolate coating smoother and easier to work with
• 1/2 cup assorted sprinkles: The more variety, the better the celebration
• Wooden skewers or lollipop sticks (optional): Makes dipping less messy and creates that classic carnival look

Instructions

Set up your workspace:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour sprinkles into a shallow bowl for easy dipping

Prepare the marshmallows:

Gently insert a skewer into each marshmallow, being careful not to push all the way through

Melt the chocolate:

Combine chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 20-second intervals and stirring until completely smooth

Dip and decorate:

Dip each marshmallow halfway into chocolate, let excess drip off, then immediately coat with sprinkles while chocolate is still wet

Set and serve:

Stand marshmallows upright on the prepared baking sheet and let chocolate set for about 15 minutes at room temperature

Save

These became my go-to contribution whenever someone says 'bring something sweet' because they're impossible to get wrong and always disappear first. The best part is watching people choose their favorite colors, like they're picking something precious.

Making Them Your Way

I've tried white chocolate for winter parties and dark chocolate for more sophisticated gatherings. The technique stays the same but the mood shifts completely with each variation.

The Dipping Technique

Hold the marshmallow at an angle and rotate it as you pull it out of the chocolate. This creates an even coating and lets the excess drip away more naturally than trying to shake it off.

Storage and Timing

These are best made the same day you plan to serve them, as the marshmallows can start to soften after about 24 hours in the coating.

• If you need to make them ahead, store them in the refrigerator and let come to room temperature before serving
• Keep them away from humidity or the chocolate might develop those mysterious white spots
• Set up your dipping station near where you'll let them dry to minimize transport disasters

Save

Sometimes the simplest recipes become the ones we return to again and again, not because they're impressive, but because they're undeniably happy-making.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chocolate works best for dipping?

Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips melt smoothly and balance sweetness well. Adding a bit of coconut or vegetable oil helps create a creamy texture for dipping.

→ Can I use wooden skewers instead of lollipop sticks?

Yes, wooden skewers are a perfect alternative to lollipop sticks for easier handling during dipping and decoration.

→ How long should I let the chocolate set?

Allow marshmallows to stand at room temperature for about 15 minutes until the chocolate firms up, or refrigerate them for quicker setting.

→ What can I use instead of sprinkles for decoration?

Chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or mini chocolate chips can be used to add texture and flavor instead of sprinkles.

→ How should I store these treats?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to three days to maintain freshness and texture.

→ Are there any allergen concerns?

These contain soy and milk from the chocolate and gelatin in marshmallows. Check ingredients for nut traces, especially in sprinkles.