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If you have a sweet tooth and a love for whimsical treats, this Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. With its soft, creamy texture and playful pastel swirls, this fudge perfectly captures the nostalgic flavor of cotton candy while delivering that rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience we all crave. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that looks as magical as it tastes, making it ideal for special occasions or simply brightening up an ordinary day with a burst of color and sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe lies in its simplicity—just a few carefully chosen ingredients that work together to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy base to the vibrant colors that bring the fudge to life.
- 24 oz white almond bark: This melts smoothly and provides a sweet, creamy foundation for the fudge without overpowering.
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk: Adds luscious sweetness and helps achieve that irresistibly soft, fudgy texture.
- Cotton candy flavoring: The star ingredient that transforms the fudge into a nostalgic carnival treat with its unmistakable sugary flavor.
- Light blue food coloring gel: Gives one half of the fudge a fun, pastel hue reminiscent of blue raspberry cotton candy.
- Light pink food coloring gel: Adds a soft, pink shade that captures the classic cotton candy look perfectly.
How to Make Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Begin by lining an 8×8-inch pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This step is essential for easy removal of your fudge once it has set, ensuring clean, perfect squares every time.
Step 2: Melt the Almond Bark
Place the white almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second bursts, stirring frequently. This gentle process prevents overheating and ensures a silky smooth base for your fudge.
Step 3: Add Condensed Milk and Flavoring
Once the almond bark is fully melted, stir in the sweetened condensed milk together with the cotton candy flavoring. Mix well until everything is seamlessly combined, infusing the entire mixture with that iconic cotton candy taste.
Step 4: Divide and Color
Split the fudge mixture evenly into two separate bowls. Add a few drops of the blue food coloring to one bowl and the pink to the other, mixing gently until the colors are vivid but not overworked.
Step 5: Layer the Fudge
Scoop spoonfuls of the colored mixtures alternately into the prepared pan, layering the pastel pinks and blues. This back-and-forth creates the foundation for a visually captivating fudge experience.
Step 6: Swirl the Colors
Grab a toothpick and gently swirl through the layers to create a beautiful marbled effect. This adds not only visual appeal but also blends the cotton candy hues into a dreamy, artistic pattern.
Step 7: Refrigerate
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing the fudge to set fully. Patience here pays off, as the cooling time develops the perfect firmness without losing any creaminess.
Step 8: Serve
Once set, peel the fudge from the pan and cut it into 25 delightful squares. These pieces are deliciously tender, bursting with flavor and color in every bite. Prepare for plenty of happy smiles!
How to Serve Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Decorate your cotton candy fudge with a sprinkle of edible glitter or tiny pastel sprinkles to highlight the playful spirit of this recipe. These little touches add sparkle and make the fudge even more irresistible for parties or gifts.
Side Dishes
Pair this fudge with a light fruit salad or bubbly lemonade for a fun, refreshing balance. The sweetness of the fudge complements the natural tang of fresh fruit, creating a measured treat that feels indulgent but not overwhelming.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, place your fudge bites in pastel-colored mini cupcake liners or wrap them in clear cellophane with a ribbon. You can also arrange the fudge squares on a decorative platter surrounded by cotton candy clouds for a whimsical centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks, making it perfect to prepare ahead for upcoming celebrations or cravings.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months and thaw quickly for anytime enjoyment.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is usually unnecessary. If the fudge feels too firm after refrigeration or freezing, simply let it sit out for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different flavorings instead of cotton candy?
Absolutely! While the cotton candy flavoring gives this fudge its signature taste, you can experiment with other extracts like vanilla, strawberry, or even bubblegum to create your own unique spin.
Is white almond bark necessary or can I substitute with white chocolate?
You can substitute high-quality white chocolate for almond bark, but be aware that the melting behavior and texture might vary slightly. Almond bark melts more smoothly and helps keep the fudge firm.
Can I make this fudge without food coloring?
Definitely! The food coloring adds visual fun, but if you prefer a more natural look, you can skip it or use natural colorings. The taste will remain delightful regardless.
How long does cotton candy fudge last at room temperature?
When stored in an airtight container away from heat and sunlight, the fudge can last up to a week at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigeration is recommended.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or sprinkles?
Yes, mix-ins like finely chopped nuts or pastel sprinkles can add texture and extra fun. Just fold them into the fudge mixture before swirling it into the pan.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing a homemade treat that brings smiles and sparks memories. This Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe is one of those gems—simple enough to whip up any day, yet stunning enough to impress guests or make an ordinary moment brighter. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire!
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Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 25 servings 1x
Description
This Cotton Candy Fudge recipe offers a delightful and colorful treat combining smooth white almond bark, creamy sweetened condensed milk, and whimsical cotton candy flavor. Swirled with light blue and pink hues, this easy-to-make fudge is perfect for parties or a fun homemade gift, providing a sweet, creamy, and nostalgic flavor experience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 24 oz white almond bark
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- Cotton candy flavoring (about 1-2 tsp)
Food Coloring
- Light blue food coloring gel (a small amount)
- Light pink food coloring gel (a small amount)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and to allow easy removal of the fudge once set.
- Melt the Almond Bark: Place the white almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently between each interval, until the almond bark is completely melted and smooth.
- Add Condensed Milk and Flavoring: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and cotton candy flavoring into the melted almond bark until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Divide and Color: Evenly split the fudge mixture into two separate bowls. Add a small amount of blue food coloring gel to one bowl and pink food coloring gel to the other bowl, stirring each until the color is evenly distributed.
- Layer the Fudge: Alternately scoop spoonfuls of the blue and pink fudge mixtures into the prepared pan, building up layers of each color.
- Swirl the Colors: Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the blue and pink fudge together, creating a marbled, cotton candy-inspired visual effect throughout the fudge.
- Refrigerate: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it is fully set and firm to the touch.
- Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the foil or parchment paper lining, cut into squares, and enjoy this sweet and colorful treat!
Notes
- For easier removal, allow the fudge to soften slightly at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before cutting.
- Adjust the amount of cotton candy flavoring according to your taste preference, starting with 1 teaspoon and increasing if desired.
- Use gel food coloring to avoid adding excessive liquid which could affect the fudge texture.
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- You can experiment with other pastel colors for a personalized twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
