Imagine biting into a rich, glossy chocolate shell that gives way to a fluffy, vanilla marshmallow center — that’s the magic of Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts. Whether you’re making these for Valentine’s Day, a party favor, or simply to spread some love, this easy and fun recipe delivers big on taste and presentation. With just two main ingredients and no complicated tempering, these heart-shaped chocolates are a must-try for home candy-makers. Plus, they’re gluten-free, vegetarian-friendly, and customizable for various dietary needs.
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Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts
Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts are more than just cute candy — they’re a smart, satisfying choice for all occasions. Here’s what makes this recipe a winner:
- Quick and Effortless: With only two ingredients and no tempering required, it’s a fast and foolproof project.
- Kid-Friendly and Fun: A great “culinary craft” for kids or beginner candy makers.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to be vegan, allergy-friendly, or made with ethically sourced ingredients.
- Perfect for Gifting: Their polished appearance makes them ideal for gift boxes or party favors.
Whether you’re crafting a romantic treat or a simple indulgence, Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts offer that nostalgic combo of chocolate and marshmallow in an elevated form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Melting Chocolate: Provides a smooth, glossy shell without the need for tempering. It sets shiny and firm, making your candies look professional.
- Mini Marshmallows: Nestled inside the chocolate shell, these add a soft, chewy contrast. Dandies brand is ideal for a vegan, gluten-free option.
- Optional: White Chocolate or Pink Candy Melts: For decorative drizzles that add a festive touch.
- Food-Safe Paint Brush: Helps evenly coat the mold cavities with chocolate.
- Piping or Sandwich Bags: Used for precise piping of the melted chocolate into molds.
- Silicone or Plastic Heart Mold: The foundation for shaping the chocolates into perfect hearts.
Ingredient Substitutions and Alternatives
If you’re missing an ingredient or have dietary preferences, here are some clever swaps:
- Candy Melts or Almond Bark: A great alternative to melting chocolate, especially if you want colored shells.
- Vegan Marshmallows: Dandies or Trader Joe’s marshmallows work well for gelatin-free versions.
- Coconut Oil: Add 1–2 teaspoons to chocolate if it’s too thick for piping.
- Flavored Marshmallows: Strawberry or caramel-flavored minis can add a new twist to the flavor profile.
These alternatives help you maintain the integrity of your chocolate marshmallow hearts while tailoring them to your pantry or preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts
- Prepare Molds
Place each heart-shaped mold on a baking tray that fits inside your fridge for easy transfer. - Melt Chocolate
Fill a piping bag with melting chocolate and microwave at 50% power for 1 minute. Continue heating in 10-second bursts until fully melted. - Coat the Molds
Snip the tip off the piping bag and fill each cavity with about a teaspoon of chocolate. Use a food-safe brush to coat the walls and base thoroughly. - Chill the Shells
Refrigerate for 3–5 minutes until the chocolate firms up. Work in small batches of 6 cavities at a time to prevent the chocolate from setting too early. - Add Marshmallows
Insert one mini marshmallow into each chocolate shell. - Seal with More Chocolate
Cover the marshmallow completely with additional melted chocolate. Gently tap the tray on the counter to release any air bubbles. - Set the Chocolates
Chill in the fridge for another 10 minutes, then carefully unmold each heart. - Decorate (Optional)
Place unmolded hearts on wax paper and drizzle with melted white or pink-tinted chocolate. Chill again until the drizzle sets.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Avoid Air Bubbles: Always tap your tray on the counter before chilling to release trapped air.
- Use a Brush: Don’t skip brushing the mold cavities for even coating.
- Don’t Overheat Chocolate: Microwave at reduced power and in short intervals to avoid clumping or burning.
- Storage Advice: Keep finished Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
These small tips ensure every batch of chocolate marshmallow hearts looks polished and tastes divine.
Serving Ideas and Flavor Variations
These delightful treats are incredibly versatile. Try these ideas to take your chocolate marshmallow hearts to the next level:
- Flavor Twists: Use peppermint marshmallows for a holiday spin, or sprinkle sea salt on top for a sweet-salty combo.
- Add Crunch: Insert a layer of crushed graham cracker crumbs or rice crispies under the marshmallow for texture.
- Drizzle Decor: Use colored candy melts to match the season — red for Valentine’s, green for Christmas, pastels for spring.
- Gift Packaging: Place each heart in a mini cupcake liner and box them with parchment layers for an elegant edible gift.
- Make-Ahead Option: These store beautifully, so you can prepare a week ahead for parties or holidays.
Whether you’re personalizing them for a holiday theme or a birthday, these marshmallow-filled hearts are a canvas for creativity.
Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts for Every Occasion
Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts are ideal for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any time you want to show someone you care. Made with love — and just two simple ingredients — they prove that fancy-looking sweets don’t have to be complicated. With ethically sourced chocolate and vegan marshmallows, you can even feel good about every bite.
Turn your kitchen into a mini chocolate factory and impress your friends, family, or even yourself with these glossy, gooey, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate marshmallow hearts.
Conclusion
Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts are a charming, foolproof way to turn two simple ingredients into an irresistible homemade treat. With their glossy chocolate coating and pillowy marshmallow centers, they deliver both nostalgic comfort and visual elegance. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, holidays, or care packages, these hearts are as versatile as they are delightful.
Whether you’re making them with kids, surprising someone special, or just indulging yourself, this recipe is a keeper. With endless variations, allergen-friendly options, and the ability to prep ahead, Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts are more than just a dessert — they’re a heartfelt gift made in your own kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of chocolate is best for Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts?
Melting chocolate or candy melts work best because they don’t require tempering and set with a glossy, firm finish. You can use milk, dark, or white chocolate depending on your flavor preference. Avoid regular chocolate chips as they may not set well in molds.
Can I make Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts vegan?
Yes, easily! Use vegan melting chocolate and marshmallows like the Dandies brand. These are free from gelatin and animal-derived ingredients, making the entire recipe plant-based and perfect for vegan diets.
How should I store Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts and how long do they last?
Store your finished Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts in an airtight container at room temperature, away from heat or sunlight. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks. For gifting, place each in mini cupcake liners and pack snugly to avoid breakage.
More Relevant Recipes
- Valentine Puppy Chow: This sweet and crunchy mix is a perfect Valentine’s Day treat, much like Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts. With chocolate, powdered sugar, and festive colors, it delivers a fun and flavorful snacking experience.
- Peppermint Oreo Truffle Balls: These no-bake truffles are rich in chocolate and have a creamy, cool peppermint twist — an ideal match in flavor and simplicity to the Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts.
- Heart-Shaped Chocolate Chip Cookies: A romantic take on a classic favorite, these cookies blend the charm of heart-shaped desserts with gooey chocolate chips — perfect for holidays and gifting just like marshmallow hearts.
Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 30 hearts
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Marshmallow Hearts are a quick, 2-ingredient homemade candy made with melting chocolate and fluffy mini marshmallows. These glossy, heart-shaped treats are gluten-free, vegetarian-friendly, and perfect for Valentine’s Day, gifting, or anytime you want a sweet, gooey bite of chocolatey love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups melting chocolate or candy melts
- 30 mini marshmallows
- 1–2 teaspoons vegetable oil or coconut oil (optional, for thinning chocolate)
- 1/3 cup white or pink melting chocolate (optional, for decorative drizzle)
Instructions
- Place silicone heart molds on a tray that fits inside your refrigerator.
- Fill a piping or sandwich bag with 2 cups of melting chocolate. Microwave at 50% power for 1 minute, then in 10-second intervals until fully melted.
- Snip the bag tip and pipe about 1 teaspoon of chocolate into each mold cavity. Use a food-safe brush to coat the sides and base.
- After coating 6 cavities, place the tray in the fridge for 3–5 minutes to firm the chocolate.
- Insert one mini marshmallow into each chocolate shell.
- Pipe more melted chocolate over each marshmallow, fully covering it.
- Tap the tray gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Refrigerate for 10 minutes or until completely set.
- Carefully unmold the chocolate hearts.
- For decorating, melt 1/3 cup white or pink chocolate and drizzle over the hearts. Chill again until set.
Notes
- Use vegan marshmallows for a gelatin-free version.
- Tap the mold tray before chilling to prevent air bubbles in the shells.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Work in small batches to prevent chocolate from setting too early.
- Add vegetable oil if chocolate is too thick for piping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 heart
- Calories: 25
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg