Easy Peppermint Marshmallows

1 serving cooking spray

6 tablespoons warm water

2 envelopes unflavored gelatin

1 ⅓ cups white sugar

½ cup light corn syrup, plus

2 tablespoons light corn syrup

¼ cup water

¼ teaspoon salt

1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

¾ teaspoon pure peppermint extract

red food coloring

¼ cup cornstarch

¼ cup confectioners sugar

Line a 9x9 pan with plastic wrap, leaving enough overhang to cover the top. Spray plastic wrap lightly with cooking spray. Place the 6 tablespoons of warm water in a large bowl, and sprinkle gelatin on top. Let gelatin soften in the water for 5 minutes.

Combine the white sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water in a tall saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil for one full minute, 240 degrees F on a candy thermometer. Pour the hot syrup over the softened gelatin, and add the salt. Beat at high speed with an electric mixer until the mixture increases in volume and holds a peak, about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.

Pour into prepared pan, add several drops of red food coloring, and swirl with a toothpick. Cover lightly with plastic wrap, and let stand at room temperature for 4 hours. Cut into 18 squares, using a knife sprayed with cooking spray. Combine cornstarch and powdered sugar in a bowl. Toss cut marshmallows in the reserved powdered sugar mixture. Store in airtight container or resealable plastic bag.