Snowman Marshmallow Hot Cocoa Toppers

Instructions

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the gelatin with 1/2 cup of the cold water.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 1/2 cup water, the granulated sugar, corn syrup and salt. Place over medium high heat, cover and allow to cook for 3 to 4 minutes. Uncover, clip a candy thermometer onto the side of the pan and continue to cook until the mixture reaches 240 degrees F, approximately 7 to 8 minutes. When the mixture reaches this temperature, immediately remove from the heat.

3. Turn the mixer fitted with the whisk attachment to low speed and, while running, slowly pour the sugar syrup down the side of the bowl into the gelatin mixture. Increase the speed to high and continue to whip until the mixture becomes very thick, approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Add the vanilla during the last minute of whipping.

4. While the mixture is whipping, whisk the confectioners' sugar and cornstarch in a small bowl. Coat a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Add the sugar and cornstarch mixture and completely coat the bottom and sides of the pan. Return the remaining mixture to the bowl and set aside.