Homemade Marshmallows (No Corn Syrup) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 tablespoons gelatin (2 envelopes Knox)
8 tablespoons cold water
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup cold water
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Preparation

Dust an 8- or 9-inch square pan with powdered sugar. Set aside.
In a small bowl, soak gelatin in 8 tbsp cold water. Set aside.
Combine granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of water in a large heavy saucepan.
Cook and stir over medium heat until dissolved.
Add gelatin and bring to a boil.
Remove from heat. Pour into a large mixing bowl and let stand until partially cool.
Add salt and vanilla extract.
Beat with an electric mixer until soft and double in volume. About 10-15 minutes.
Pour into prepared pan to about 1/2 inch thick.
Set to cool until it will not stick to your finger.
Cut into 1.5 inch pieces and roll in powdered sugar.
Variation: toasted coconut can be substituted for powdered sugar.
Variation: other flavorings can be substituted for vanilla extract.