Do you need a campfire to roast marshmallows? The short answer is no. Whether you live in an apartment, face cold weather, or are short on time, there are several safe and satisfying ways to roast marshmallows without an outdoor fire. Below are flame and flameless options to help you get gooey, toasted marshmallows for s’mores or snacks anytime.
If you prefer an easy s’mores-style dessert without any roasting, you can also make a S’mores Pie for a fire-free alternative.
Safety note: open flames and hot surfaces can be hazardous. Supervise children closely and follow appliance safety guidelines for any indoor or outdoor roasting method.
How To Roast Marshmallows Without A Fire
Many people searching for “how to roast marshmallows without a fire” really mean “without a campfire.” If you want to avoid any flame at all, the microwave, oven, toaster oven, or air fryer are your best options. While these methods won’t perfectly replicate a campfire caramelization, they can produce soft, toasted marshmallows that are delicious in s’mores or on their own.
Oven Roasted Marshmallows
An electric oven or toaster oven with a broil setting can give you even browning. Avoid letting marshmallows touch the heating element and use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Parchment typically resists singeing at ordinary broiling temperatures, but never leave the oven unattended.
- Set the oven to Broil.
- Line a baking pan with parchment paper and space the marshmallows apart.
- Broil for 2–4 minutes, watching closely, until they turn golden brown.
Air Fryer Roasted Marshmallows
An air fryer can toast marshmallows quickly and evenly.
- Preheat the air fryer to about 375°F (190°C).
- Line the basket with aluminum foil and arrange marshmallows with space between them.
- Cook for 3–5 minutes, checking frequently, until they reach a golden-brown color.
Roasting Marshmallows in the Microwave
Microwaving marshmallows is a flameless, fast option that makes them expand and collapse into a soft, pillowy texture. Use a microwave-safe plate and limit cook times to short bursts to avoid a sticky mess.
Start with 20-second increments to see how powerful your microwave is. Jumbo marshmallows puff up rapidly, so reduce time and watch them closely if you try larger sizes.
Stovetop Roasted Marshmallows
A gas stove or an electric stove with an exposed coil can mimic a campfire flame. Skewer marshmallows on a long fork, metal skewer, or a dedicated marshmallow roasting stick and carefully hold them over the flame or coil, rotating to brown evenly. Keep a safe distance from curtains and other flammable items, and always supervise children.
Roasting Marshmallows with a Kitchen Torch
A culinary torch gives you precise control and produces browning similar to a campfire. Hold the marshmallow on a skewer and gently brûlée the surface until it reaches the desired color. This method is excellent for finishing s’mores assembled on a graham cracker and chocolate.
Portable Marshmallow Roaster
Tabletop electric s’mores makers and portable roasters are designed for indoor and outdoor use. These devices come in flame and flameless models and are convenient for small gatherings where a full firepit isn’t possible.
Roasting Marshmallows In A Fireplace
A gas or wood-burning fireplace offers a classic alternative to a campfire. Use a long skewer or fireplace-safe roasting stick to toast marshmallows over the flame, taking usual fireplace safety precautions.
Roasting Marshmallows with a Duraflame Log
Some outdoor firelogs are marketed as suitable for roasting foods such as marshmallows and hot dogs. However, makers note that not all artificial logs are intended for cooking. If you choose this method, use only products specifically labeled and tested for food roasting and follow the manufacturer’s guidance.
Outdoor Grill
A gas or charcoal grill is an easy DIY firepit substitute. Thread marshmallows onto a metal skewer or roasting stick and hold them above the grill grates, turning slowly until evenly toasted to your preference.
Bad Advice About Roasting Marshmallows Without A Fire
Avoid roasting marshmallows over scented or unknown candles. Many candles contain fragrances, dyes, or additives that can transfer unpleasant or potentially unsafe compounds to food. Similarly, using a lighter to roast marshmallows can introduce residues from lighter fluid.
Lighter fluid can contain toxic hydrocarbons, which may include:
- Benzene
- Butane
- Hexamine
- Lacolene
- Naphtha
- Propane
You may not become ill after a single toasted marshmallow from a lighter, but it’s wise to avoid methods that could introduce contaminants into food.
Did You Know Most Marshmallows Are Not Vegan?
Despite their fluffy, white appearance, many mainstream marshmallows contain gelatin, an animal-derived protein, so they are not vegan. Common non-vegan brands include Kraft Jet-Puffed and many grocery store private labels. Vegan marshmallow brands on the market include options such as Trader Joe’s, Dandies, Yummallo, and Funky Mello.
Delicious marshmallow recipes to try:
- Homemade Marshmallows
- S’mores Pie
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Drizzle
- Marshmallow Pops