Gut-Healthy Marshmallows & Earl Grey Hot Cocoa

Marshmallows
1 In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large bowl if using a high-speed hand mixer), combine the gelatin powder and 1/2 cup water. Allow it to bloom — meaning, don’t touch it and let it do its thing while you prepare the syrup.
2 In a small saucepan, combine the honey or maple syrup with 1/4 cup water. This is the perfect time to add any optional extras like vanilla extract or mushroom powders. Bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about 3 minutes, then remove from heat.
3 Turn your mixer on medium speed and slowly pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin. Once all the syrup is added, increase the mixer speed to high. The mixture will start out brown — trust the process. After several minutes, it will transform into a creamy white marshmallow texture. Continue mixing for about 10 minutes, until thick, glossy, and forming stiff peaks.
4 Scoop the marshmallow mixture into a parchment-lined 9×9 (or 8x8) pan and smooth the top as best you can with a spatula. Let it set for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
5 Once firm, cut into squares using a pizza cutter. Store in a covered glass container at room temperature. They’ll keep for about 2–3 weeks.
Earl grey hot cocoa
7 Warm the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the Earl Grey tea bag and let it steep for 3–5 minutes, depending on how strong you like it. Remove the tea bag.
8 Whisk in the hot cocoa mix, dark chocolate, and sea salt. Continue whisking gently until the chocolate is fully melted and the cocoa is smooth and rich.
9 Pour into your favorite mug and top with one (or several) gut-healthy marshmallows.