This cotton candy fudge is a vibrant, sweet treat that brings the playful flavor of cotton candy to a creamy, no-bake dessert. With its swirled pink and purple design, it’s perfect for parties, gifting, or just adding a pop of fun to your dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Eye-catching design: The marbled swirl adds a colorful and festive touch.
- Unique flavor: Captures the nostalgic sweetness of cotton candy.
- No baking required: Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for parties: A crowd-pleaser for birthdays, baby showers, or candy-themed events.
Ingredients
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons cotton candy flavoring
- Pink gel food coloring
- Purple gel food coloring
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 8×8-inch square pan
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife or skewer
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pan:
Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal once the fudge is set.
Melt the Mixture:
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Add Flavoring:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cotton candy flavoring, ensuring it’s evenly incorporated.
Divide and Color:
Split the melted fudge mixture evenly into two bowls. Add pink gel food coloring to one bowl and purple gel food coloring to the other, stirring each until the colors are vibrant and uniform.
Layer and Swirl:
Pour the pink fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Add dollops of the purple fudge on top of the pink layer. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the purple into the pink, creating a marbled effect.
Chill to Set:
Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm and set.
Cut and Serve:
Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut into 36 squares and serve.
Variations
- Rainbow Fudge: Divide the mixture into more bowls and add additional colors for a rainbow effect.
- Sprinkle Topping: Sprinkle the top with edible glitter or candy sprinkles before chilling for extra flair.
- Vanilla Option: Replace cotton candy flavoring with vanilla or almond extract for a different twist.
- Themed Colors: Customize the colors for holidays or themed events, like red and green for Christmas or blue and white for a baby shower.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve chilled or at room temperature. This fudge is great on dessert platters or wrapped as party favors.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze individual pieces for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Helpful Notes and Tips
- Use gel food coloring: Gel colors provide vibrant hues without affecting the fudge’s consistency.
- Low heat is key: Melt the chocolate mixture slowly to avoid scorching.
- Work quickly: The fudge begins to set as it cools, so swirl the colors promptly after layering.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
White chocolate is best for achieving the cotton candy flavor and color vibrancy, but you can experiment with other types for different flavors.
2. Where can I find cotton candy flavoring?
Cotton candy flavoring is often available at baking supply stores or online. Substitute with vanilla extract if unavailable.
3. How do I prevent the fudge from sticking?
Ensure the pan is well-lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the chilling time slightly.
5. What if my fudge isn’t setting?
Chill it longer in the refrigerator. If it’s still too soft, the chocolate mixture may not have been heated thoroughly.
This cotton candy fudge is as fun to make as it is to eat. With its colorful swirls and sweet flavor, it’s a whimsical addition to any celebration. Enjoy creating this vibrant and delicious treat!
