Yes, it is generally safe to roast marshmallows over a propane fire pit, as long as the fire pit is properly maintained and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Natural gas is also fine.
Some people wonder if the gas itself can leave toxic residue on the roasted marshmallow, but this is not so. Propane is known as a clean-burning fuel and, when used properly, will not leave any residue on the marshmallows.
However, as with any cooking method, it’s always a good idea to check the marshmallows before eating them to make sure they are cooked to your liking and do not have any foreign materials on them.
Other than that, go ahead and start roasting your marshmallows over your gas fire pit without worry!
👇👇👇 S’mores recipe idea below 👇👇👇
Gas Fire Pit Marshmallows
What should you keep in mind before roasting marshmallows?
It’s important to make sure the fire pit is stable and on a flat surface (outdoor pavers are good), and to keep a safe distance from any flammable materials. Keep an eye on the marshmallows as they roast, and use long roasting sticks to avoid getting too close to the flames.
If you don’t want to buy roasting sticks we have found fresh bamboo sticks very good. We often use them over our wood-burning fire pits – you can see pics in our post on how to use a chiminea.
Keep the propane fire pit clean, as any buildup of debris can cause the fire to burn unevenly and produce unwanted byproducts. It may also cause the fire pit to go out.
Make sure to properly maintain the fire pit and clean it after each use to ensure that your marshmallows are safe to eat.
It’s best to let them cool down for a minute or two after roasting because they can be extremely hot in the center. It’s easy to burn one’s mouth, or, in the case of our daughter one time, get a hot marshmallow stuck to the face!
Potential Roasting Problems
When cooking marshmallows over a propane fire pit, there are a few things that can go wrong…
Not keeping a safe distance from the fire
Roasting marshmallows too close to the flames can cause them to burn quickly and unevenly.
Not using long roasting sticks
Short roasting sticks can cause you to get too close to the fire, increasing the risk of burns.
Using a damaged or malfunctioning fire pit
A damaged or malfunctioning fire pit can cause the flame to be too high or uneven, leading to burnt or unevenly cooked marshmallows.
Not properly maintaining the fire pit
A dirty or clogged fire pit can cause the flame to burn unevenly and produce unwanted byproducts.
Not monitoring the marshmallows while they cook
Marshmallows cook quickly and can burn if not watched carefully.
Not following the manufacturer’s instructions
Not following the manufacturer’s instructions can put you and your equipment at risk.
Losing a marshmallow to the flames
Dropping a marshmallow into a propane fire pit could potentially damage the fire pit.
When a marshmallow falls into the fire, it could cause a flare-up and create a larger flame, which could potentially damage the fire pit or even cause a fire hazard.
Additionally, it could also cause the marshmallow to become a fire hazard itself and can cause injury to the person roasting. It’s important to keep a close eye on the marshmallows as they roast and to use long roasting sticks to avoid getting too close to the flames.
If a marshmallow does fall into the fire, it’s best to remove it as soon as possible using tongs or a long-handled fork to avoid any potential damage to the fire pit or injury to yourself.
Use in a ventilated area
It’s also important to keep in mind that propane is a flammable gas, so it’s important to store and handle it safely, and not to use the fire pit in a confined or poorly ventilated area.
While propane fire pits are considered safe, when used incorrectly they can become dangerous.
Propane Marshmallow Roasting Tips
Cooking the perfect marshmallow over a propane fire pit takes a little practice, but here are a few tips to help you get started.
Use long roasting sticks
Long roasting sticks will keep you at a safe distance from the flames and allow you to easily rotate the marshmallows for even cooking.
Keep the marshmallows at the right distance from the flame
Hold the marshmallows about 4 – 6 inches above the flame, but not so close that they catch fire.
Experiment to find the best distance for your fire pit, but above the flames rather than in the flames is important.
Rotate the marshmallows frequently
Rotating the marshmallows will help them cook evenly and prevent burning.
Rotation is key for a perfectly cooked treat, otherwise, you’ll have a half-roasted marshmallow.
Watch the marshmallows closely
Marshmallows cook quickly, so keep an eye on them at all times.
They can spontaneously erupt into flames if not kept at the proper height over the flames for the right amount of time.
Cook to your desired level of doneness
Some people prefer their marshmallows lightly toasted, while others like them golden brown or blackened.
Personally, I like well-done, while my wife prefers them rare. Experiment with different cooking times to find the perfect level of doneness for you!
Enjoy!
Once your marshmallow is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it from the stick and enjoy!
Gas Fire Pit S’mores Recipe
You can also make smores using marshmallows roasted over a gas fire pit.
Here’s a classic recipe for making delicious s’mores…
Ingredients:
- Graham crackers
- Chocolate bars (such as Hershey’s bars or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups)
- Marshmallows
- Roasting sticks
Instructions:
- Start by preheating your propane fire pit to a moderate flame.
- Take a graham cracker and break it in half to make two squares.
- Place a chocolate bar on one of the graham cracker squares.
- Skewer a marshmallow onto a roasting stick.
- Hold the marshmallow about 6 inches above the flame and rotate it frequently to cook it evenly.
- Cook the marshmallow to your desired level of doneness.
- Carefully remove the marshmallow from the stick and place it on top of the chocolate bar.
- Place the other graham cracker square on top of the marshmallow to make a sandwich.
- Hold the s’more over the flame for a few seconds to slightly melt the chocolate and marshmallow.
- Carefully remove the s’more from the fire and let it cool for a moment before enjoying.
Enjoy your s’more!
You can also get creative with your s’mores recipe, you can try different types of chocolate like:
- Dark chocolate
- Peanut butter cups
- Caramel-filled chocolate.
You can also try different types of crackers, like shortbread cookies, wafers, or even pretzels.
The size of the marshmallows used for s’mores can vary depending on personal preference.
Traditionally, the marshmallows used for s’mores are the small, cylindrical marshmallows that are about 1 inch in diameter and 1 inch tall. This size marshmallow is perfect for roasting over a fire, as they cook quickly and evenly.
However, you can use any size of marshmallows you like, as long as they can be skewered on a roasting stick and held over the fire.
Some people prefer to use jumbo marshmallows for a gooier, more decadent s’more, while others prefer to use mini marshmallows for a more delicate treat.
Just keep in mind that the size of marshmallows will affect the cooking time, bigger marshmallows will take longer to cook and smaller marshmallows will cook faster, so adjust your roasting time accordingly.
Roasting Marshmallows Over A Propane Fire Pit
Can you roast marshmallows on a propane gas fire pit?
Yes, it’s perfectly safe to do so, so long as the fire pit is in good working order. It doesn’t matter if it’s a small gas fire pit, fire pit table, or Pottery Works fire pit bowl.
Roasting marshmallows is fun for both kids and adults, so get into it safely today!
