Imagine a treat that brings back childhood memories of carnival lights, fluffy sugar clouds, and irresistible sweetness. The Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe is that magical dessert—a colorful, creamy, and soft fudge that melts in your mouth and sparks joy with every bite. Perfect for parties, gifts, or simply an indulgent snack, this fudge combines the whimsy of cotton candy with the richness of classic fudge, making it a must-try for candy lovers.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a DIY dessert enthusiast, this Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe is simple, fun, and incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients, you can create fluffy, colorful fudge squares that impress both visually and in flavor. Let’s dive into the magic of homemade cotton candy fudge and discover why this recipe is your next sweet obsession.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
Flavor Explosion: Sweet, airy cotton candy flavor meets creamy white chocolate for a unique taste experience.
Vibrant Colors: Pink and blue hues make it a perfect eye-catching treat for parties or special occasions.
Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes with minimal preparation.
Kid-Friendly: Soft, chewy, and whimsical—guaranteed to delight children and adults alike.
Customizable: Add sprinkles, edible glitter, or flavored extracts to make it truly your own.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry ingredients without breaking the bank.
No Special Equipment: No candy thermometer needed—just a microwave and spatula.
Perfect Gift Idea: Wrap squares in colorful parchment paper for charming homemade gifts.
Ingredients for Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge
Fudge Base:
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
2 cups white chocolate chips
1 tsp cotton candy flavoring
Coloring & Garnish:
Gel-based food coloring (pink and blue), as desired
Pink sea salt (optional, for a decorative touch)
Substitutions & Tips:
White Chocolate Chips: Choose high-quality chocolate for smoother, creamier fudge.
Cotton Candy Flavoring: Can substitute with cotton candy extract or a few drops of flavored syrup.
Coloring: Gel-based food coloring prevents liquid overload, keeping fudge smooth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Ingredients
Gather all ingredients on your counter. Having everything ready ensures smooth and efficient preparation.
2. Melt White Chocolate
Place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly each time until smooth. This prevents burning and ensures a silky texture.
3. Combine with Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pour the sweetened condensed milk into the melted chocolate. Stir vigorously until fully combined, creating a glossy, lump-free mixture.
4. Add Flavor and Color
Mix in the cotton candy flavoring. Slowly add pink and blue gel food coloring, stirring until the fudge is evenly colored. Use swirling motions for a fun, marbled effect.
5. Pour and Smooth
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Pour in the fudge mixture and smooth the top using a spatula for an even layer.
6. Refrigerate and Set
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing the fudge to firm up completely.
7. Cut and Serve
Lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 16 squares and optionally sprinkle with pink sea salt for contrast. Enjoy your soft, fluffy cotton candy fudge treats!
Pro Tips for Perfect Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge
How do you make cotton candy fudge without it being sticky?
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and the chocolate is melted slowly. Avoid adding too much liquid, and refrigerate until fully set.
Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
How do I achieve vibrant cotton candy colors?
Gel-based food coloring works best. Add gradually and swirl gently to maintain distinct pink and blue shades without dulling the fudge’s creamy texture.
Tips for a marbled effect
Use a toothpick or skewer to lightly swirl colors just before chilling. Avoid overmixing to retain the playful cotton candy look.
Best Ways to Serve
Party Platter: Arrange fudge squares alongside other colorful treats like rainbow cupcakes or macarons.
Gift Box: Wrap in parchment and tie with ribbons for birthday or holiday gifts.
Snack Time: Pair with milk or hot cocoa for a whimsical afternoon treat.
Nutrition (per serving, 1 piece)
Calories: 190 kcal
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Sugars: 24 g
Protein: 2 g
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: Wrap individually in parchment or foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Avoid Heat: Keep away from direct sunlight or heat to prevent melting.
FAQs About Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge
Can I make this fudge vegan?
Yes! Substitute sweetened condensed milk with a coconut condensed milk alternative and use dairy-free white chocolate.
How long will it last at room temperature?
Fudge is best stored in the refrigerator, but it can last 1–2 days at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
Can I add mix-ins?
Absolutely! Mini marshmallows, sprinkles, or crushed candy canes add texture and festive flair.
Can I make it in different flavors?
Yes, try cotton candy with strawberry or blue raspberry extract for unique variations.
Variations
Fluffy Cotton Candy Fudge: Fold in whipped cream for extra airiness.
DIY Cotton Candy Fudge Squares: Make bite-sized pieces for kids’ lunchboxes.
Colorful Party Fudge: Use multiple gel colors for a rainbow effect.
Chocolate-Cotton Candy Fudge: Add a layer of milk chocolate for a two-tone look.
Conclusion
The Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe brings together nostalgia, flavor, and fun in a simple yet magical dessert. Its creamy texture, vibrant colors, and irresistible sweetness make it perfect for celebrations or just indulging your sweet tooth. Share this recipe with friends and family to spread joy, and don’t forget to post your colorful creations online—tag us to join the cotton candy craze!