Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that effortlessly blends nostalgia and vibrant fun, Cotton Candy Fudge is about to become your new obsession. This whimsical dessert delivers all the sweet, cloudlike joy of cotton candy, wrapped up in luxuriously creamy fudge. Swirled with pastel pink and blue and dotted with sparkling sprinkles, every bite is pure magic—perfect for birthday parties, bake sales, or simply treating yourself to something positively delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Ingredients:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
- pink and blue gel food coloring
- sprinkles (optional)
How to Make Cotton Candy Fudge
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang at the edges—this makes it super easy to lift out your finished fudge without any sticky drama. Give yourself a smooth surface for swirling later!
Step 2: Melt the Base
In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine your white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly, and don’t rush—steady heat and gentle stirring are the secret to silky, lump-free fudge. When your mixture is completely melted and perfectly smooth, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 3: Add the Cotton Candy Flavoring
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in that magical teaspoon of cotton candy flavoring. The aroma alone will instantly transport you to your favorite fair!
Step 4: Divide and Color
Pour the warm fudge into two bowls—try to keep the portions even for the prettiest swirls later on. Tint one bowl with a few drops of pink gel food coloring, and the other with blue. Stir gently until each bowl is evenly colored and gloriously pastel.
Step 5: Swirl the Colors
Drop alternating spoonfuls of the pink and blue fudge randomly into your prepped baking pan—don’t stress about being exact! Once both colors are in, grab a butter knife or skewer and gently swirl them together, creating marbled magic. Top with sprinkles while the fudge is still warm, if you want extra sparkle.
Step 6: Chill Until Set
Pop your pan into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm and sliceable. The waiting is honestly the hardest part—but so worth it!
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Use the parchment sling to lift your Cotton Candy Fudge out of the pan. Slice into small squares—trust me, a little goes a long way—then serve up a tray of the happiest fudge you’ve ever seen.
How to Serve Cotton Candy Fudge
Garnishes
Want to dress up your Cotton Candy Fudge? Top each square with a sprinkle explosion, edible glitter, or even a mini puff of actual cotton candy. Pastel nonpareils or pearl dragees make for a sophisticated look, while colorful jimmies amp up the playful mood.
Side Dishes
This fudge is undeniably sweet and rich, so pair it with simple sides like fresh berries, unsweetened whipped cream, or a cold glass of milk. If you’re entertaining, offer a bowl of salty pretzels or popcorn alongside it for a crave-worthy sweet-and-salty contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For party flair, arrange Cotton Candy Fudge squares in cupcake liners or mini treat boxes. Layer pieces in clear jars for adorable gifts, or create a fudge tower centerpiece topped with spun sugar for a showstopping dessert table. It also makes unforgettable favors for birthdays and baby showers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Cotton Candy Fudge at its best, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors and colors stay vibrant and the texture remains perfectly creamy for up to a week—just remember to let it come to room temp for a few minutes before serving for the softest bite.
Freezing
If you need to make your fudge even further ahead, it freezes beautifully! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then tuck them in a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to two months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before indulging.
Reheating
Cotton Candy Fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it. If you find it’s a bit too firm straight from the fridge, let the squares sit out for 10-15 minutes and they’ll soften right up without melting.
FAQs
Where can I find cotton candy flavoring?
This unique flavoring is often available at specialty baking stores, craft stores with a cake decorating section, or online retailers. Look for brands specifically labeled as “cotton candy flavor,” as they’ll give you the most authentic taste.
Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel?
Gel food coloring is recommended because it gives vibrant color without thinning the fudge base. If you only have liquid food coloring, use it sparingly and stir well—too much liquid can affect the set of your Cotton Candy Fudge.
What’s the best way to get clean fudge slices?
For neat squares, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each cut. This will help you glide through the fudge without sticking for picture-perfect results every time.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can experiment with dairy-free white chocolate chips and coconut-based sweetened condensed milk. The texture might change, but you’ll still get that dreamy flavor and color. Be sure to check all product labels for allergens.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan instead of the 8×8. The steps are exactly the same, and you’ll have plenty of Cotton Candy Fudge squares to go around.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for an easy, enchanting dessert with maximum whimsy, this Cotton Candy Fudge is bound to become a regular favorite. Its playful appearance and dreamy flavor make every bite feel like a party! Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and spread a little sweetness today.
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Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the whimsical and delightful flavors of Cotton Candy Fudge. This colorful and sweet treat is perfect for satisfying your cravings for something fun and festive.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
- pink and blue gel food coloring
- sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Melt white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over low heat until smooth.
- Add Flavor and Color: Stir in cotton candy flavoring. Divide the mixture into two bowls and tint one with pink and the other with blue food coloring. Swirl the colors together in the pan.
- Set and Serve: Top with sprinkles if desired, refrigerate until firm, then cut into squares and enjoy.
Notes
- Use high-quality white chocolate chips for best results.
- Find cotton candy flavoring online or at specialty baking stores.
- Store fudge in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
