If you have a sweet tooth and a soft spot for nostalgic treats, you will absolutely adore this Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe. Imagine creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge infused with whimsical cotton candy flavor and swirled with pastel pink and blue hues that brighten any dessert table. This delightful fudge is not only stunning to look at but also perfectly balanced with the richness of white chocolate and the playful sweetness of cotton candy essence, making it a unique and irresistible treat that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this dreamy Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe is easier than you might think because it only calls for a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in achieving that perfect texture and enchanting flavor.

Sweetened condensed milk: This creamy, sugary base provides the rich, smooth consistency that every great fudge needs.
White chocolate chips: They melt beautifully to add luscious sweetness and a silky texture to the fudge.
Cotton candy flavoring: The magical ingredient that gives this fudge its nostalgic, carnival-inspired taste.
Gel-based food coloring (pink and blue): These vibrant colors create the iconic cotton candy swirl, making the fudge as eye-catching as it is delicious.
Pink sea salt (optional): A sprinkle of this can enhance the sweetness and add a subtle savory contrast for those who love a flavor twist.

How to Make Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

The first step to any successful fudge is organization — lay out your sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate chips, cotton candy flavoring, and food coloring together on your counter. Having everything at arm’s reach makes the whole process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate

Place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each interval. This careful melting ensures the chocolate becomes silky smooth without burning, creating the perfect base for the fudge.

Step 3: Stir in Sweetened Condensed Milk

Once your white chocolate is melted, gently mix in the sweetened condensed milk. This combination forms a luscious, creamy blend that balances sweetness with a soft, fudge-like texture you’re going to love.

Step 4: Add Flavor and Color

Now the fun part — stir in the cotton candy flavoring so every bite bursts with carnival-inspired sweetness. Next, add small amounts of pink and blue gel food coloring and swirl them into the mixture. These colors bring your fudge to life, capturing the whimsy of cotton candy perfectly.

Step 5: Pour Into Pan and Chill

Pour your colorful fudge mixture into a lined 8×8-inch baking pan, using a spatula to smooth out the top evenly. Refrigerate the pan for at least two hours to allow the fudge to set into firm, sliceable squares.

Step 6: Cut and Enjoy

Once chilled, remove your fudge from the pan and cut it into delightful squares. Each piece is a bite-sized celebration of creamy texture and cotton candy sweetness — ready for you and your loved ones to savor.

How to Serve Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra-special presentation, sprinkle pink sea salt on top of your fudge squares right after pouring them into the pan or just before serving. The salt enhances the sweetness and adds an unexpected burst of flavor that brings out the fudge’s best qualities.

Side Dishes

This fudge pairs beautifully with light, refreshing side treats like fresh berries or a chilled glass of milk. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve alongside a fruity sparkling punch to complement the cotton candy’s playful flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap individual fudge squares in clear cellophane and tie them with pastel-colored ribbons for charming party favors. Alternatively, arrange the fudge pieces on a decorative platter with mini carnival-themed props to amplify the nostalgic vibe and wow your guests visually.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep your leftover fudge fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain the smooth texture you worked so hard to create.

Freezing

If you want to make your Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe ahead of time, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will last up to three months in the freezer, ready to thaw and delight whenever you need a sweet treat.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen fudge, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. Avoid microwaving, as the fudge will lose its perfect texture. Once softened, it’s just as creamy and delicious as when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use another type of chocolate instead of white chocolate chips?

While white chocolate lends the fudge its creamy sweetness and light color perfect for the cotton candy effect, you could experiment with milk or even flavored chocolates. Just note that the flavor and appearance will change, and you might lose the iconic pastel look.

Where can I find cotton candy flavoring?

Cotton candy flavoring is available at many specialty baking stores and online retailers. Look for food-grade flavor extracts or oils specifically designed for confectionery use to ensure authentic taste and safety.

Is gel-based food coloring necessary?

Gel-based coloring is recommended because it provides vibrant hues without thinning out your fudge mixture. Liquid food coloring may affect the fudge’s consistency, so stick with gels for the best visual result.

Can I add mix-ins like sprinkles or nuts to this fudge?

Absolutely! Adding sprinkles can enhance the playful look, especially those in pastel colors that match the cotton candy theme. Nuts are also a tasty addition if you want a crunchy contrast, but keep in mind they will alter the smooth texture slightly.

How long does this fudge stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this fudge will remain fresh for up to one week at room temperature. For longer storage, freezing is the best way to preserve its flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorite treats because it combines the charm of a childhood favorite with the indulgent creaminess of homemade fudge. Whether you’re making it for a celebration, a gift, or just because, this fudge will delight anyone lucky enough to taste it. I encourage you to try it out and bring a little carnival magic into your kitchen today!

Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe

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4.1 from 76 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes plus 2 hours chilling
Yield: 16 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Homemade Cotton Candy Fudge is a delightful and whimsical treat combining the creamy richness of white chocolate with the fun, nostalgic flavor of cotton candy. Perfect for parties or a sweet indulgence, this fudge is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients. The addition of vibrant pink and blue food coloring and optional pink sea salt gives it a festive look and a touch of savory contrast.

Ingredients

Scale

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), amount as desired
Pink sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)

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Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients on your counter for easy access to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Melt White Chocolate: Place white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval until completely melted and smooth.
Combine with Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour the sweetened condensed milk into the melted white chocolate and stir vigorously until the mixture becomes silky and fully combined without lumps.
Add Flavor and Color: Mix in the cotton candy flavoring, then carefully add gel-based food coloring in pink and blue hues; stir well until the color and flavor are evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture.
Pour and Smooth: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, then pour in the fudge mixture. Use a spatula to smooth out the top evenly for a uniform thickness.
Refrigerate and Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge firms up completely.
Cut and Serve: Once set, remove the fudge from the pan by lifting the parchment paper, cut into 16 square pieces, optionally sprinkle with pink sea salt for a touch of contrast, and enjoy!

Notes

Use gel-based food coloring to avoid altering fudge consistency.
Cotton candy flavoring can be found at specialty baking stores or online.
For a shinier finish, ensure the white chocolate is melted gently to prevent scorching.
Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Adding the optional pink sea salt enhances flavor complexity by balancing sweetness.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American