I Tried the Viral Easter Trend That's So Much Cheaper than Dyeing Eggs

With Easter less than two weeks away, there’s a lot of buzz surrounding eggs. Whether you’re intending to make a breakfast casserole for a crowd or whip up grandma's pound cake, there’s a chance that the prices and availability of eggs could impact your plans. Not to mention, dyeing Easter eggs will likely use more eggs than all of your Easter Sunday recipes combined. 

Recently, social media users have been brainstorming alternatives for egg dyeing. Some suggested egg-shaped rolled sugar cookies and decorating plastic eggs. A few even came up with eyebrow-raising ideas, such as painting potatoes and rocks. If you’re looking for an edible alternative that keeps the spirit of the traditional activity, look no further than the internet’s newest obsession: dyeing marshmallows.

Jet-Puffed Introduces Marshmallow Decorating Kit

Jet-Puffed just launched a new product at Walmart in line with this trend. The brand's Dip and Decorate Marshmallows kit includes six dipping colors, three edible decorating pens, two decorative drizzles, a bag of Jet-Puffed Jumbo Extra Large Marshmallows, tongs, and an egg crate–all for less than $2.

Fans are thrilled with the budget-friendly option, many mentioning that it’s an excellent egg alternative for those with allergies. There's one problem, however: The kits keep selling out. Luckily, you can make your own dyed marshmallows without this kit by rounding up a few simple ingredients. 

How to Make Dip-Dyed Marshmallows for Easter

In a recent Instagram video, @created.at.home shows how easy it is to make colorful dip-dyed marshmallows. The creator dunks jumbo marshmallows into dye prepared in a muffin tin. In the caption, the user further explains the process: “All you need is a package of jumbo marshmallows and food coloring. Mix the food coloring with cold water and place the marshmallow in it for only 1 to 2 seconds."

It’s no surprise that this method is so popular. At a time when egg prices are sky-high, this is a budget-friendly alternative. In addition, it omits vinegar (a strong scent for those with sensitive noses), they're less fragile to handle, and any leftovers can be used to make Rice Krispies treats.

I Tried The Viral Dyed Marshmallows 

My biggest question going into this activity was whether the marshmallows would get sticky and break down. (That last thing anyone wants to deal with is wet, sticky marshmallows.) Fortunately, they held up surprisingly well.

I mixed 1/2 cup of cold water with food coloring and dipped a jumbo marshmallow for up to 5 seconds. The marshmallow came out intact and vibrant.

If you use gel food coloring, I suggest stirring it into the water with a mini whisk or pastry brush to make sure the dye is well blended. Additionally, a cooling rack with a paper towel underneath will help the marshmallows dry quickly—after 10 minutes, they were smooth and not the least bit sticky.

If you’re looking to save money—or can't find eggs at all this Easter—but still want to carry on the holiday tradition, dyeing marshmallows is definitely worth a try. While you're at it, you can keep the family fun going with our bunny cake, an easy dessert that starts with boxed mix.