Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe

There’s something downright magical about cotton candy. From its whimsical swirls of pastel colors to that instant melt-in-your-mouth sweetness, it never fails to bring out the kid in all of us. So, when I stumbled across the idea of combining that nostalgic flavor with fudge, I just knew I had to try it. Cotton Candy Fudge? Yes, please! This recipe is a dreamy, colorful treat that’s perfect for sharing at parties or just keeping around for when you need a little sprinkle of fun in your day. Plus, it’s super easy to make!

Let’s dive right into the sweet, swirly goodness and I’ll guide you step-by-step through this delightful dessert. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll be making excuses to whip up a batch whenever you can!

this RECIPE

The magic of cotton candy in fudge form ✨

I remember the first time I made cotton candy fudge, it took me right back to summer carnivals. That airy sweetness of cotton candy is one of those flavors that instantly brings on a wave of nostalgia, but here’s the thing—it’s even better in fudge! You get that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge texture with the fun, cotton-candy twist. This fudge isn’t just candy—it’s a mood. The swirls of pink and purple, the light scent of spun sugar, the creamy chocolate base—it’s a whole experience in every bite!

My cotton candy memory (and why I love this recipe)

When I was a kid, cotton candy was always my go-to treat at fairs and carnivals. I remember standing in line with sticky fingers, waiting for the vendor to spin that fluffy magic around a paper cone. That first bite, when the sugary floss instantly dissolved on my tongue, was pure joy. So, when I came across cotton candy flavoring in the baking aisle one day, I just had to grab it and experiment. I initially tried it in cupcakes (delicious, by the way), but when I mixed it into a batch of fudge, something special happened. The smooth, creamy texture of the fudge pairs so well with the nostalgic cotton candy flavor that I couldn’t stop myself from sneaking little bites all day. It’s fun, colorful, and brings back those carefree days of running around the fairgrounds with friends.

A little background on fudge and how we got here

Fudge has been a beloved sweet treat since the late 19th century. Legend has it, the first batch of fudge was a happy accident when someone “fudged” a batch of caramel (hence the name). Over the years, fudge has become a classic dessert known for its smooth texture and rich sweetness. While traditional chocolate or vanilla are the go-to flavors, the versatility of fudge means it can take on all sorts of creative flavors—like this cotton candy version! Cotton candy itself has origins in the 19th century as well, invented by a dentist (ironic, right?) who created the first machine-spun cotton candy, initially called “fairy floss.” Combining these two sweet treats is a fun way to enjoy something old with a new, whimsical twist.

Let’s talk ingredients: the stars of this sweet show

This recipe only requires a few simple ingredients, but they’re doing some heavy lifting to create that cotton candy magic. Here’s what you’ll need:

• White chocolate chips: These give the fudge its creamy, smooth base. Be sure to use good quality chips, as they’ll melt more evenly. If you don’t have white chocolate, you can swap it with vanilla-flavored almond bark or even candy melts.
• Sweetened condensed milk: This thick, sweet milk helps give fudge that signature rich, creamy texture. It also adds sweetness, so no need for extra sugar. You can’t really substitute this one—it’s key for getting the right texture.
• Unsalted butter: This adds richness and helps everything blend smoothly. Room-temperature butter is easier to mix, so plan ahead!
• Cotton candy flavoring: The star of the show! This flavoring can be found in specialty stores or online, and a little goes a long way. You’ll need 2 teaspoons total, but feel free to adjust to taste.
• Gel food coloring: This is where the fun comes in! Pink and purple are the classic cotton candy colors, but you can switch them out for any colors you like. Gel food coloring is preferred because it won’t thin out your fudge mixture.

Kitchen gear: what you need (and what you can totally skip)

You don’t need a lot of fancy tools to make this fudge, but there are a few essentials that make things easier:

• Medium saucepan: You’ll use this to melt the chocolate, butter, and condensed milk. I prefer a non-stick pan, which helps prevent the chocolate from burning.
• Mixing bowls: You’ll need two bowls to separate the mixture for coloring. Any medium-sized, heat-safe bowls will work.
• Parchment paper: This is a must for lining your pan. It makes it easy to lift the fudge out once it’s set.
• Butter knife or offset spatula: These are perfect for swirling the fudge colors together. An offset spatula gives a little more control, but a butter knife works just fine!
• 8×8 inch baking pan: This size gives you the perfect fudge thickness. If you don’t have an 8×8 pan, a 9×9 will work—just know your fudge will be a bit thinner.

Step-by-step: making your cotton candy fudge masterpiece

Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making the fudge! Here’s how it goes, step by step:

1. Prep the pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides so you can easily lift the fudge out later. Trust me, this makes your life so much easier!
2. Melt the chocolate mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter over medium heat. Stir constantly (seriously, don’t walk away—white chocolate can burn fast!) until everything is melted and smooth. This should take about 6-7 minutes.
3. Divide and color: Once the chocolate mixture is melted, divide it evenly into two bowls. Add 1 teaspoon of cotton candy flavoring to each bowl. Then, stir in the pink food coloring to one bowl and the purple to the other. Adjust the amount of food coloring to get your desired shades. Start small—you can always add more!
4. Layer and swirl: Using large spoonfuls, alternate dropping the pink and purple mixtures into your prepared pan. Once all the mixture is in, use a butter knife or offset spatula to swirl the colors together. Don’t overdo it—just a few gentle swirls will give you that pretty marbled effect.
5. Smooth the top: Place an extra piece of parchment paper on top and gently press to smooth the fudge. Be careful not to mess up your swirls!
6. Chill and set: Let the fudge set either in the fridge for about 2 hours or at room temperature for 4 hours. Once it’s firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, slice, and enjoy!

Variations on the classic (and a few fun ideas to try)

One of the best things about this cotton candy fudge recipe is how easily you can adapt it! Here are some fun variations I’ve tried (and loved):

• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you’re using gluten-free white chocolate chips.
• Vegan: Swap out the white chocolate chips and butter for dairy-free versions (like coconut butter and vegan white chocolate), and use sweetened condensed coconut milk instead.
• Color changes: Switch up the colors for different occasions—red and green for festive celebrations, orange and black for autumn gatherings, or pastels for spring festivities.
• Flavor twists: If you want to get creative, try experimenting with other flavorings like bubblegum or marshmallow for a different sweet treat.
• Toppings: Sprinkle the top of the fudge with edible glitter, sprinkles, or even small candy pieces before it sets for an extra festive touch!

How to serve and show off your fudge

When it comes to serving cotton candy fudge, presentation is everything. Slice the fudge into small squares for easy snacking or gifting. To make it extra special, serve the fudge on a white platter or cake stand to really let those vibrant colors pop! You can even sprinkle a little edible glitter on top for a whimsical, sparkly finish.

For a cute party display, arrange the fudge pieces in colorful cupcake liners or stack them in little gift boxes tied with pastel ribbons.

drink pairings to keep the fun going

This cotton candy fudge is so sweet and fun that it pairs best with light, refreshing drinks. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Sparkling lemonade: The tartness of lemonade cuts through the sweetness of the fudge, and the bubbles make it extra fun!
• Fruit-infused water: Try water infused with strawberries and mint or lemon and basil. It’s a refreshing way to balance out the richness of the fudge.
• Milkshakes: A vanilla or strawberry milkshake is a playful option that complements the cotton candy flavor perfectly.

Storing your cotton candy fudge (and keeping it fresh)

Fudge is one of those treats that stores beautifully. If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

• At room temperature: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place.
• In the fridge: If you prefer your fudge a bit firmer, you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze fudge! Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Scaling the recipe up or down

This recipe makes an 8×8 pan of fudge, which gives you about 16-20 pieces depending on how you cut it. If you want to make a smaller batch, you can easily halve the recipe and use a loaf pan instead of an 8×8. If you’re making fudge for a larger crowd, you can double the recipe and use a 9×13 pan—just be sure to adjust the chilling time slightly to account for the thicker fudge.

What if something goes wrong? Troubleshooting tips

If your fudge isn’t setting properly, it could be that the mixture didn’t cook long enough to thicken. Next time, try cooking it for another minute or two on the stove. If the colors aren’t as vibrant as you’d like, just add a little more gel food coloring. It’s all about experimenting and finding what works for you!

Give it a try and share the fun!

I can’t wait for you to try this cotton candy fudge recipe! It’s one of those desserts that’s guaranteed to make people smile, whether it’s at a birthday party, a baby shower, or just a regular Tuesday when you’re craving something sweet. Plus, it’s so easy to make, and you can have fun with the colors and flavors. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel?
A: Gel food coloring is recommended because it’s more concentrated and won’t thin out the fudge mixture. If you use regular liquid food coloring, just be careful not to add too much, or it might affect the texture.

Q: Where can I find cotton candy flavoring?
A: You can find cotton candy flavoring at specialty baking stores or online. It’s pretty easy to track down and totally worth it for this recipe!

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Cotton candy fudge stores really well. You can make it a day or two ahead and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

Q: Can I freeze the fudge?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the fudge tightly in parchment paper and store it in a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Q: What if I can’t find white chocolate chips?
A: If you’re out of white chocolate chips, you can use vanilla-flavored almond bark or even candy melts as a substitute.

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