Marshmallow vodka is a sweet and flavorful vodka infused with the taste of marshmallows. It delivers a rich, sugary flavor reminiscent of the fluffy white confections. The velvety texture and sweet vanilla notes pair deliciously in cocktails or sipped on its own. Let’s take a closer look at what gives marshmallow vodka its distinctive flavor profile.
The Marshmallow Flavor
Marshmallow vodka gets its name from the signature marshmallow flavor infused into the spirit. Most brands use real marshmallows during the distillation process to impart the sweet taste. The marshmallows infuse the vodka with their characteristic vanilla, sugar, and toasted notes. The result is a smooth vodka with a recognizable marshmallow aroma and flavor.
The intensity of the marshmallow taste can vary between brands, from a subtle hint of vanilla and sugar to a powerful candy-like presence. Generally, the longer the marshmallows are infused, the more prominent the flavor. No matter the intensity, the marshmallow adds a pleasant sweetness that makes this vodka unique.
A Sweet, Smooth Taste
Compared to regular unflavored vodka, marshmallow vodka has a markedly sweeter taste. The sugar and vanilla from the marshmallows contribute to a smooth, mellow sweetness. The flavor helps counterbalance the harsh burn typically associated with vodka. The sweet profile makes marshmallow vodka more palatable and mixable than straight vodka.
Notes of toasted marshmallow, caramel, and graham cracker often come through as well. These flavors complement the sweetness nicely. While the vodka still packs an alcoholic punch, the sweetness provides an easy drinking experience. It goes down smooth, leaving behind a sugary aftertaste.
Ideal for Creative Cocktails
The sweet marshmallow flavor lends itself perfectly to making fun, creative cocktails. It brings something new and different to standard vodka drinks. For example, a marshmallow vodka Cosmopolitan has a candy-like flavor twist. A vodka tonic or vodka cranberry gets a sweet upgrade with marshmallow vodka.
It also shines in indulgent dessert-inspired drinks. Combine it with chocolate liqueur, creme de cacao, Irish cream, or fruity liqueurs for delicious after dinner cocktails. Blend it with ice cream for a boozy, grown-up float. Let the marshmallow flavor lead you to new, unexplored cocktail territory.
How to Drink Marshmallow Vodka Neat
While it makes a tasty mixer, marshmallow vodka can also be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. When sipped straight, you can appreciate the subtle nuances of the marshmallow infusion. Itdrinkssmoothwith little to no burn, especially when chilled. Savor the sweet vanilla aroma before each taste. Drink it slowly to experience how the flavors evolve and develop.
Pair your neat marshmallow vodka with dessert like pound cake, creme brulee, or rice krispy treats. The sweet flavors complement each other nicely. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or marshmallow fluff on top to enhance the experience.
Potential Downsides
Marshmallow vodka is not for everyone. The intense sweetness may be unappealing to those who prefer dry spirits. Some may find the flavoring overpowering or artificial tasting. It’s also very high in sugar, so not ideal for health-conscious drinkers watching their calorie intake.
Since it’s so sweet and easy to drink, marshmallow vodka may lead some to over-consume alcohol. The smoother taste could mask how much you’re actually drinking. Moderation is key.
Popular Brands
Some of the most popular and widely available marshmallow vodka brands include:
- Smirnoff Marshmallow: One of the most well-known, made with real marshmallows during distillation
- Pinnacle Marshmallow: Smooth and sweet with prominent vanilla notes
- Three Olives Marshmallow: Infused with ripe marshmallow flavor
- DeKuyper Marshmallow Delight: Robust, candy-like marshmallow flavor
- Firefly Marshmallow: Uses locally-sourced marshmallows, infused for 72 hours
Making Homemade Marshmallow Vodka
You can easily infuse vodka with marshmallow flavor at home with just a few ingredients:
- Vodka: Use a mid-range, smooth vodka. Avoid bottom-shelf brands.
- Marshmallows: Buy large marshmallows or marshmallow bits.
- Mason jar: Or other airtight container for infusing.
Steps:
- Fill jar with marshmallows, leaving a little room at the top.
- Pour vodka over marshmallows until completely submerged.
- Seal jar and store in a cool, dark place for 2-5 days.
- Shake jar daily while infusing.
- After desired flavor is reached, strain vodka through a cheesecloth.
- Enjoy your homemade marshmallow vodka!
Cocktail Recipes
Marshmallow vodka opens up many possibilities for fun, creative cocktails. Here are a few delicious recipes to try:
Marshmallow Hot Chocolate Martini
- 1 1/2 oz marshmallow vodka
- 1/2 oz chocolate liqueur
- 1 oz heavy cream
- Graham cracker, for rim
Rim glass with graham cracker crumbs. Add vodka, chocolate liqueur and heavy cream to cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into glass. Garnish with marshmallow.
Campfire S’more
- 2 oz marshmallow vodka
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur
- Graham cracker, for rim
Coat rim of glass with graham cracker crumbs. Fill glass with ice. Add vodka and chocolate liqueur. Top with ginger beer and garnish with toasted marshmallow.
Marshmallow Milkshake Martini
- 2 oz marshmallow vodka
- 1 oz vanilla liqueur
- 1 oz cream or milk
- Whipped cream, for garnish
Add ingredients to cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into chilled glass. Garnish with whipped cream.
Conclusion
With its sweet vanilla and toasted marshmallow flavors, marshmallow vodka delivers a tasty twist on standard vodka. It has a smooth, sugary taste that makes for creative, indulgent cocktails. Sipped straight or on the rocks, it has pleasant dessert-like notes that vodka normally lacks. Next time you want to sweeten up your home bar, give marshmallow vodka a try.