Cotton Candy Fudge

Cotton Candy Fudge is a colorful and whimsical treat that tastes just like the classic carnival favorite. With its creamy texture, vibrant swirls of color, and sweet cotton candy flavor, this no-bake dessert is perfect for parties, holidays, or any time you want to indulge in a bit of nostalgia.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No candy thermometer or baking required.
• Fun and Colorful: A treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
• Customizable: Change up the colors and flavors to suit any occasion.
• Perfect for Sharing: Great for parties, gifts, or dessert tables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• White chocolate chips
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Butter
• Cotton candy flavoring (available in specialty stores or online)
• Food coloring (pink and blue for a classic look, or your choice of colors)
• Optional: sprinkles for decoration

Directions

1. Prepare the Pan:
   • Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhangs for easy removal.
2. Melt the Base:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat.
3. Add Flavoring:
   • Stir in the cotton candy flavoring, adjusting the amount to your taste preference.
4. Divide and Color:
   • Divide the mixture into two bowls. Add a few drops of pink food coloring to one bowl and blue to the other, stirring until the colors are evenly distributed.
5. Create the Swirl:
   • Drop alternating spoonfuls of pink and blue fudge into the prepared pan. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the colors together gently, creating a marbled effect.
6. Decorate and Set:
   • If desired, sprinkle the top with colorful sprinkles for an extra fun touch. Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
7. Slice and Serve:
   • Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into small squares and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 25 small squares
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Rainbow Fudge: Divide the mixture into more bowls and use additional colors for a rainbow effect.
• Flavor Boost: Add a drop of vanilla or almond extract along with the cotton candy flavoring.
• Galaxy Fudge: Use black, purple, and blue food coloring with edible glitter for a cosmic look.
• Holiday Themes: Adjust the colors for different holidays—red and green for Christmas, orange and black for Halloween, etc.
• Glittery Touch: Add edible glitter for an extra magical appearance.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Freeze fudge in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use other chocolate instead of white chocolate?

White chocolate is best for achieving vibrant colors and mild flavor, but you can try milk or dark chocolate for a different base flavor.

2. Where can I find cotton candy flavoring?

Cotton candy flavoring is available online or at specialty baking stores.

3. Can I make this fudge dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed coconut milk.

4. How do I prevent the fudge from being grainy?

Heat the mixture slowly over low heat and stir constantly to ensure a smooth consistency.

5. Can I add real cotton candy to the fudge?

Real cotton candy will dissolve in the fudge, so it’s better as a decorative topping.

6. What’s the best way to cut the fudge cleanly?

Chill the fudge thoroughly and use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to make clean cuts.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan and adjust chilling time as needed.

8. How do I store the fudge without it sticking together?

Layer the fudge pieces with parchment paper in an airtight container.

9. Can I skip the food coloring?

Yes, but the colorful swirls are part of the charm. You can also use natural food coloring if preferred.

10. Is this recipe suitable for kids to make?

Yes, with supervision during the melting step, kids can have fun swirling and decorating the fudge.

Conclusion

Cotton Candy Fudge is a delightful and whimsical treat that’s sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. With its creamy texture, bright colors, and nostalgic flavor, it’s a perfect addition to any celebration or dessert table. Whip up a batch today and enjoy the magic of cotton candy in fudge form!

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