Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
If you’re looking for a fun, nostalgic treat that captures the whimsy of a carnival right in your own kitchen, this Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a luscious, creamy fudge bursting with the sweet, airy flavor of cotton candy, made from simple ingredients that come together quickly for a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth experience. This recipe transforms everyday white chocolate fudge into a playful pastel confection that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo whenever you want a little sugary escape.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are simple but carefully chosen to create that perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and color. Each one plays a key role in making your fudge smooth, flavorful, and visually delightful.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Provides creamy richness and sweetness to make your fudge perfectly smooth and luscious.
- White chocolate chips: The base of the fudge, offering a sweet, velvety texture and the right structure for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Cotton candy flavoring: The magic ingredient that infuses the fudge with that unmistakable carnival-style sweetness and airy flavor.
- Gel-based food coloring (pink and blue): Adds those iconic pastel swirls that make the fudge as pretty as it is tasty.
- Pink sea salt (optional): A sprinkle on top that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness to highlight flavors.
How to Make Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by laying out everything you’ll need on your countertop. Having all your ingredients within reach makes the process smoother and more enjoyable, plus it helps you avoid any last-minute scrambles. This step also builds the anticipation for the incredible fudge to come.
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate Chips
Place your white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat them in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring between each interval. Doing this gently ensures the chocolate melts evenly without burning, giving you a silky smooth base for your fudge.
Step 3: Blend in the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Once your chocolate is melted, slowly mix in the sweetened condensed milk. Stir it until the mixture becomes silky and fully combined. This creates the creamy texture that makes fudge so irresistible.
Step 4: Add Cotton Candy Flavoring and Food Coloring
Now for the fun part: stir in the cotton candy flavoring to infuse that classic carnival sweetness. Divide the mixture if you like, and swirl in pink and blue gel food coloring to mimic the whimsical look of cotton candy. Mixing the colors just right creates a beautiful marbled effect.
Step 5: Pour and Chill
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil for easy removal. Pour your fudge mixture into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate it for at least two hours, allowing the fudge to set firmly and develop its perfect bite.
Step 6: Cut and Enjoy
Once chilled, remove your fudge from the pan and cut it into squares. Each bite delivers that classic confectionary sweetness with a creamy, dreamy cotton candy twist. It’s ready for sharing or keeping as your own delightful secret.
How to Serve Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle some pink sea salt over the fudge just before serving. The salt adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness and enhances the cotton candy flavor. You can also add edible glitter or tiny pastel sprinkles to make your fudge look as festive as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs beautifully with light, fruity accompaniments like fresh berries or a simple citrus salad to balance its richness. A cup of hot tea or a chilled glass of sparkling lemonade can also complement the sweetness and keep your palate refreshed.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual squares in pastel-colored wax paper tied with a cute ribbon for gifts or party favors. You can arrange them on a pretty platter with cotton candy tufts for a playful display. For a party, create mini fudge pops by inserting sticks before refrigerating, turning them into handheld treats perfect for both kids and adults.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your homemade cotton candy fudge in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It will stay delicious for up to two weeks, making it a great make-ahead treat for special occasions or whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its texture and flavor.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually needed. However, if you prefer a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, which can change the consistency.
FAQs
Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of cotton candy flavoring?
While vanilla extract will add sweetness and aroma, it won’t replicate the unique cotton candy flavor, which is sweeter and more whimsical. For that true carnival taste, cotton candy flavoring is recommended.
Is gel food coloring necessary?
Gel food coloring produces more vivid colors without altering the fudge’s texture. Liquid food coloring can also be used but may slightly affect the consistency, so gel is preferred for the best visual outcome.
Can I make this fudge without white chocolate chips?
White chocolate is essential for the creamy texture and sweetness that define this fudge. Substituting it might change the taste and texture significantly, so it’s best to use white chocolate chips as directed.
How long does it take for the fudge to set?
Chilling the fudge for at least two hours is necessary to achieve the perfect firmness for cutting and serving. You can refrigerate it longer if needed, but don’t rush this step.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
Absolutely! You can experiment with adding crushed candy, sprinkles, or a swirl of fruit preserves. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients might alter the texture slightly, so add them sparingly for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Give this Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe a try and bring a little magic and sweetness into your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and wonderfully nostalgic—a treat that’s sure to impress friends and family or simply brighten your day with a carnival-inspired indulgence. Once you taste this fudge, it might just become your new favorite go-to dessert!
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Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus 2 hours chilling
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
This delightful Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge combines creamy white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk with a whimsical cotton candy flavor and vibrant gel food coloring, creating a fun and colorful treat perfect for parties or a sweet indulgence at home.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 tsp cotton candy flavoring
- Gel-based food coloring (pink and blue), as desired
- Pink sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients on your counter to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.
- Melt White Chocolate: Place white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth without any lumps.
- Combine Sweetened Condensed Milk: Add the sweetened condensed milk to the melted white chocolate and stir continuously until the mixture is silky and thoroughly combined.
- Add Flavor and Color: Stir in 1 teaspoon of cotton candy flavoring and add drops of pink and blue gel-based food coloring. Mix well until the colors and flavor are evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture.
- Set in Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil. Pour the fudge mixture into the pan and use a spatula to smooth out the surface evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is completely firm and set.
- Cut and Serve: Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and optionally sprinkle with pink sea salt for a slight contrast in flavor before serving.
Notes
- Use gel-based food coloring to avoid altering the fudge’s texture or consistency.
- If you prefer stronger cotton candy flavor, adjust the flavoring quantity to taste carefully.
- Refrigerate fudge in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 1 week.
- Allow fudge to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if it is too firm.
- Pink sea salt is optional but adds a nice pop of color and a subtle salty contrast.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
