Name: Indulge in Fluffy Cotton Candy Fudge for Sweet Nostalgia
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (opt for dairy-free for vegan option); 16 oz White Bark (can substitute with white chocolate); 1 teaspoon Cotton Candy Flavoring (look for at specialty stores); 2 drops Light Blue Food Coloring Gel (adjust for desired vibrancy); 2 drops Light Pink Food Coloring Gel (adjust for desired vibrancy)

The moment I first tasted fluffy cotton candy fudge at a summer fair, I was captivated by its whimsy and deliciousness. The delightful sweetness reminded me of carefree childhood days spent running between carnival rides and munching on treats that melted in my mouth. Today, I want to share with you the magic of creating this fabulous fudge right in your kitchen!

This recipe is a true showstopper, featuring vibrant pink and blue swirls that make it not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes. With only 15 minutes of prep time and minimal chilling needed, this fluffy cotton candy fudge is perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home. Trust me, this easy-to-make confection will quickly become a favorite among friends and family, evoking the joy of those sunny carnival days while satisfying your sweet tooth! Let’s dive in and whip up this dreamy dessert together.

Why is Fluffy Cotton Candy Fudge a Must-Make?

Sweet Nostalgia: This fudge brings back fond memories of spirited days at the carnival, combining modern convenience with timeless flavors.
Quick Prep: Made in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Eye-Catching Swirls: The vibrant pink and blue colors make it a showstopper, guaranteed to impress guests.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a fun snack, a party favor, or even a whimsical gift!
Simple Ingredients: With minimal components, this recipe keeps things easy without compromising on flavor.

Cotton Candy Fudge Ingredients

• Note: Gather your ingredients for this delightful cotton candy fudge that’s a carnival favorite!

For the Fudge Base

Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds creaminess and richness; opt for dairy-free condensed milk for a vegan version.
White Bark – Provides a smooth fudge base; can be swapped with white chocolate for a richer taste.
Cotton Candy Flavoring – Imparts the classic carnival flavor; look for this at baking specialty stores or online.

For Coloring

Light Blue Food Coloring Gel – Use a few drops to achieve a fun, vibrant blue in your fudge.
Light Pink Food Coloring Gel – A few drops add a bright, cheerful pink hue to half of the fudge.

With these simple ingredients, you’re all set to create a batch of fluffy cotton candy fudge that will captivate and delight anyone lucky enough to taste it!

How to Make Fluffy Cotton Candy Fudge

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift the fudge out for cutting later!
Melt the White Bark: Place the broken white bark in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each session, until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and cotton candy flavoring with the melted white bark. Mix until everything is fully combined, creating a luscious fudge base.
Divide Mixture: Carefully separate the melted fudge into two bowls. This will allow you to create the beautiful color layers.
Add Color: Take one bowl and mix in a few drops of blue food coloring, stirring until you achieve your desired shade. Repeat the process with the pink food coloring in the second bowl.
Layer Colors: Grab a spoon and alternate scoops of pink and blue mixtures into the lined pan. This patchwork of colors will make your fudge visually stunning!
Swirl Mixture: Using a toothpick, gently swirl the colors together without fully blending them. This creates a gorgeous marbled effect that’s simply irresistible!
Chill: Place your fudge in the refrigerator and allow it to set for about 2 hours, or until it becomes firm to the touch.
Cut and Serve: Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the foil or parchment paper. Cut it into squares and prepare to share the joy!

Optional: For an extra touch, top with colorful sprinkles before chilling.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Cotton Candy Fudge Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this fudge your own with these delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Swap sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free condensed milk alternative for a vegan-friendly treat that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an added crunch that complements the creamy fudge beautifully.
Minty Surprise: Replace cotton candy flavoring with peppermint extract for a refreshing minty version that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the fudge mixture, adding richness and a delightful contrast to the sweet cotton candy flavor.
Heavenly Sprinkles: Top the fudge with colorful sprinkles before chilling to elevate its festive look and add an extra layer of fun!
Flavored Swirls: Try mixing in different flavoring extracts, such as vanilla or butterscotch, to create unique marbled batches that surprise your taste buds.
Spiced Fudge: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced twist that brings a cozy vibe to this carnival classic.
Crispy Treat: Fold in some crispy rice cereal to the fudge mixture for a delicious texture twist that will keep everyone coming back for more!

How to Store and Freeze Fluffy Cotton Candy Fudge

Room Temperature: Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.

Fridge: For longer shelf life, keep the fudge in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 4 weeks. Just ensure it’s in a sealed container to avoid absorbing any odors.

Freezer: You can freeze fluffy cotton candy fudge for up to 3 months. Cut it into squares, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. If you prefer a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

What to Serve with Fluffy Cotton Candy Fudge?

The perfect dessert deserves equally delightful companions to create a memorable meal experience.

Mini Chocolate Cupcakes: These rich, moist cupcakes contrast beautifully with the lightness of the fudge, making each bite a joyous celebration.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a coolness that balances the fudge’s sweetness, creating a dreamy dessert experience.
Fresh Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit like strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple enhance the carnival vibe while adding a refreshing bite. With each juicy morsel, you can cleanse your palate and enjoy the sweetness of the fudge even more!
Sparkling Lemonade: Serve a fizzy, tart lemonade to cut through the richness of the fudge, making it a perfect thirst-quenching addition for warm days.
Cotton Candy Flavored Popcorn: Embrace the carnival theme by serving popcorn flavored to match the fudge, amplifying the whimsical twist for everyone to enjoy.
Rainbow Sprinkles: A fun topping that brings extra crunch and color, if served alongside the fudge, it enhances its fun, festive appeal!
Sweetened Iced Tea: A glass of sweetened iced tea can act as a delicious contrast to the creamy fudge, offering an added layer of flavor.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels features a delightful balance with the sweet fudge, creating a perfect sweet-salty combo!

Make Ahead Options

These Fluffy Cotton Candy Fudge treats are a fantastic option for meal prep and can make your life a little sweeter on busy days! You can prepare the fudge mixture up to 24 hours in advance by completing steps 1 through 6—simply layer the colors into the pan and refrigerate. Once chilled, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any odor absorption and maintain quality. When you’re ready to finish your fudge, just swirl the layers, chill for another 2 hours, and cut into squares for delightful homemade treats! This way, you’ll have delicious candy ready for unexpected guests or last-minute celebrations with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Fluffy Cotton Candy Fudge

Melt Carefully: Ensure the white bark is fully melted, as overcooking can lead to a burnt flavor, ruining the fudge’s creamy texture.
Color Caution: When adding food coloring gel, start with a small amount, as you can always add more to achieve your desired vibrancy in the cotton candy fudge.
Layering Technique: For a neat appearance, spoon the mixtures into the pan slowly; this helps to keep the colors distinct when you create the marbled effect.
Cutting Time: Use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into even squares after it has chilled completely for the best results and presentation.
Dairy-Free Option: If making a dairy-free version, double-check that your sweetened condensed milk alternative is suitable and has a similar consistency for best results.

Fluffy Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe FAQs

What type of sweetened condensed milk should I use?
I recommend using traditional sweetened condensed milk for a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, make sure to choose a dairy-free condensed milk that has a similar consistency so you don’t compromise the fudge’s delightful creaminess.

How do I store leftover fluffy cotton candy fudge?
Store your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out. If you’re keeping it longer, the refrigerator is a great option where it can last for up to 4 weeks!

Can I freeze fluffy cotton candy fudge?
Absolutely! To freeze, cut the fudge into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped squares into a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy your treat down the road! It can freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best results.

What should I do if my fudge doesn’t set?
If your fudge isn’t setting properly, it might be due to overcooking the white bark. Always microwave it in short intervals and stir to ensure it melts well without burning. If you encounter this issue, you can try re-melting the fudge gently, adding a bit more sweetened condensed milk, and then allowing it to set again.

Is this recipe safe for kids or individuals with allergies?
This fluffy cotton candy fudge contains dairy, so be cautious if serving it to individuals with dairy allergies. Always check labels on all ingredients, especially the cotton candy flavoring, as some may contain allergens. For kids, this treat is a fun and safe snack, but moderation is key due to its sugar content!

Can I customize the flavors in fluffy cotton candy fudge?
Very! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can mix in nuts or sprinkles for added texture. You can also experiment with different flavors like vanilla or mint instead of cotton candy flavoring. Just remember, the spirit of this fudge comes from its whimsical nature, so have fun with it!