Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
If you have a sweet tooth and a love for whimsical treats, then the Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe is here to brighten your dessert game in the most delightful way. This vibrant, creamy fudge bursts with the nostalgic flavor of cotton candy, combined with smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture and eye-catching pastel swirls. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this recipe delivers all the fun and sweetness you could ask for in an easy-to-make treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe lies in its simplicity and perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing out that charming cotton candy flavor while creating the ideal creamy texture and dreamy pastel hues.
- White almond bark: This smooth, sweet coating melts easily and forms the fudge’s creamy base.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds luscious sweetness and moisture, helping the fudge set with a perfect bite.
- Cotton candy flavoring: Injects the classic carnival sweetness that defines the fudge’s unique taste.
- Light blue food coloring gel: Provides a gentle pastel shade that mimics traditional cotton candy colors.
- Light pink food coloring gel: Complements the blue with a playful, sugary swirl appearance.
How to Make Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This step is essential because it prevents the fudge from sticking to the pan, making it super simple to lift out and cut once it’s set.
Step 2: Melt the Almond Bark
Place the white almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring regularly. The key is patience here—stir often to ensure smooth melting without scorching, which keeps your fudge silky.
Step 3: Add Condensed Milk and Flavoring
Carefully stir in the sweetened condensed milk and cotton candy flavoring into the melted almond bark. Combining these creates the fudgy, creamy foundation infused with that signature cotton candy sweetness everyone loves.
Step 4: Divide and Color
Pour the mixture evenly into two separate bowls. Add a small amount of light blue food coloring to one bowl and light pink to the other. These gentle hues bring the playful cotton candy look straight into the fudge.
Step 5: Layer the Fudge
Alternately scoop spoonfuls of the blue and pink fudge mixtures into your prepared pan. Layering adds visual interest and sets the stage for the next step’s swirling effect.
Step 6: Swirl the Colors
Grab a toothpick and gently swirl the two colors together in the pan. The goal is to create a beautiful marbled effect reminiscent of spun cotton candy clouds—pretty enough to eat with your eyes first!
Step 7: Refrigerate
Pop the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. This gives the fudge time to fully set and develop its firm yet creamy texture that’s just right for cutting.
Step 8: Serve
Once your fudge has set, lift it out using the foil or parchment and cut into charming little squares. Each bite melts into a sweet, creamy cloud of cotton candy fun that’s hard to resist.
How to Serve Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the presentation, consider sprinkling edible glitter, colorful sprinkles, or crushed candy bits on top before chilling. These touches add sparkle and extra sweetness, making your Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe irresistible to the eye and palate alike.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs beautifully with simple vanilla ice cream or a fruity sorbet to balance the richness. For an adult twist, serve alongside a light champagne or a sparkling soda for a festive feel.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual fudge squares in cellophane tied with pastel ribbons for party favors or gift them in decorative boxes. You can also layer the fudge with other colorful treats in a candy buffet for a whimsical, carnival-inspired display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to two weeks, retaining that luscious flavor and creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this fudge later, freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer bag. When properly stored, it keeps well for up to two months without losing its delightful taste or texture.
Reheating
The beauty of fudge is you really don’t need to reheat it. If it’s chilled and a bit firm from storage, simply let it come to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to enjoy the perfect softness again.
FAQs
Can I use regular white chocolate instead of white almond bark?
While regular white chocolate can work, almond bark melts more smoothly and sets firmer, giving the best texture for this fudge. If using white chocolate, be sure to melt it carefully to avoid seizing.
Where can I find cotton candy flavoring?
Cotton candy flavoring is available in specialty baking stores or online. A little goes a long way, so start with a few drops and adjust to your taste for the perfect carnival sweetness.
Can I make this fudge without food coloring?
Absolutely! The fudge will still taste amazing without coloring, but the bright pink and blue swirls really make the Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe visually pop and feel extra festive.
How long does it take for the fudge to set?
Refrigerating for at least 2 hours usually does the trick. For best results, you can refrigerate overnight to ensure a firm, sliceable fudge texture.
Is this fudge recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, the Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe is kid-friendly and perfect for family treats or parties. Just be sure to keep an eye on small children when handling the fudge as it can be quite sweet and sticky.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe is like capturing a carnival in every bite, and it’s just too fun and delicious not to try. Whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself, this pastel-hued, dreamy fudge is sure to become a beloved classic in your sweet collection. So grab your ingredients, swirl up those colors, and get ready to taste a bit of cotton candy magic at home!
Print
Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 25 servings 1x
Description
A whimsical and colorful Cotton Candy Fudge recipe that layers vibrant pink and blue almond bark fudge with sweet condensed milk and authentic cotton candy flavoring. Perfect for parties and special occasions, this easy no-bake treat sets in the refrigerator and features a marbled swirl effect for a fun, eye-catching dessert.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 24 oz white almond bark
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
Flavoring and Coloring
- 1 tsp cotton candy flavoring
- Light blue food coloring gel (a few drops)
- Light pink food coloring gel (a few drops)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper to prevent the fudge from sticking, making it easier to remove later.
- Melt the Almond Bark: Place the white almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the almond bark is fully melted and smooth.
- Add Condensed Milk and Flavoring: Stir the sweetened condensed milk and cotton candy flavoring into the melted almond bark, mixing until well combined and smooth.
- Divide and Color: Evenly split the fudge mixture into two separate bowls. Add light blue food coloring gel to one bowl and light pink food coloring gel to the other. Stir each until the color is fully incorporated.
- Layer the Fudge: Alternate scooping spoonfuls of the blue and pink fudge mixtures into the prepared pan, layering them evenly.
- Swirl the Colors: Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the colors together, creating a beautiful marbled effect throughout the fudge.
- Refrigerate: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge has set completely and is firm to the touch.
- Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out using the foil or parchment, cut into 25 squares, and enjoy the colorful, sweet treat.
Notes
- For best results, stir frequently while melting almond bark to avoid burning.
- Use gel food coloring to achieve vibrant colors without thinning the fudge mixture.
- Swirling gently will prevent the colors from blending too much and losing the marbled look.
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- You can substitute cotton candy flavoring with vanilla extract for a milder taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
