Who Really Invented Marshmallows (and S'mores)?

Words to Know

**Marsh-mallow plant**

A real plant that grows in wet, swampy marshes — where marshmallows got their name

"The first marshmallow treat came from the marsh-mallow plant's gooey sap."

**Gelatin**

A wobbly ingredient that traps tiny air bubbles and holds a food's fluffy shape

"Today's marshmallows use gelatin instead of the old plant sap."

**Extrusion**

Pushing a soft mixture through tubes to shape it, then cutting it into pieces

"The extrusion machine squeezes marshmallow goo like toothpaste, then slices it."

**Whip (whipping)**

Stirring something fast to mix in lots of tiny air bubbles

"Whipping the sugar and egg whites made the very first fluffy marshmallow."

**Caramelize**

When sugar turns golden-brown and toasty from heat

"The outside of a toasted marshmallow caramelizes over the fire."

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