Cotton candy fudge is the kind of dessert that grabs attention at first glance and keeps people coming back for more. It’s colorful, creamy, and packed with the sweet nostalgic flavor of classic carnival cotton candy. Perfect for birthday parties, holidays, bake sales, or just a fun treat to make with kids, this no-bake fudge comes together in minutes and looks just as good as it tastes.
What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients and no candy thermometer required, you can whip up a batch of this creamy, pastel-hued fudge without any fuss. Whether you’re looking to brighten up a dessert table or make a unique homemade gift, this recipe delivers both charm and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Cotton Candy Fudge
- Easy to make – No baking, no thermometer, and no complicated steps.
- Bright and fun – Its swirled pink and blue colors make it eye-catching.
- Kid-friendly – Both the flavor and the prep process are great for little helpers.
- Customizable – Easily switch up the colors or add sprinkles for a festive twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring (available online or at baking stores)
- Pink and blue gel food coloring
- Optional: sprinkles or edible glitter for decoration
Ingredient Notes:
- White chocolate chips melt smoothly and give this fudge its creamy base.
- Cotton candy flavoring provides the key nostalgic taste; be sure to use flavoring oil or extract intended for candy.
- Gel food coloring offers vibrant color without thinning the mixture. Avoid liquid food coloring for best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, letting the paper overhang the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Melt the Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk over low heat. Stir continuously until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Stir in the cotton candy flavoring until evenly incorporated. Taste the mixture—if you’d like a stronger flavor, you can add a few more drops, but be cautious as the flavor can be potent.
Step 4: Divide and Color
Divide the fudge mixture evenly between two bowls. Tint one batch pink and the other blue using gel food coloring. Stir until each color is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Swirl and Layer
Dollop spoonfuls of the pink and blue fudge into the prepared pan, alternating colors. Once all the fudge is in the pan, use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the colors together. Avoid overmixing—you want distinct swirls, not a blended color.
Step 6: Chill
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Cut the fudge into small squares with a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts for neat edges. If desired, top with sprinkles or edible glitter before serving.
Storage Tips
- Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Helpful Tips and Variations
Use high-quality white chocolate: Cheap white chocolate can sometimes separate or become grainy. Choose a reputable brand for a smooth result.
Add texture: Stir in mini marshmallows, chopped candy pieces, or colorful sprinkles before swirling the colors for extra fun and crunch.
Try different colors: Swap out pink and blue for pastel purples, yellows, or greens depending on the occasion—think baby showers, Easter, or themed parties.
Make it a gift: Package squares of fudge in clear treat bags or small tins. Add a ribbon and a label for a homemade gift that feels special.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel?
Gel coloring is best because it doesn’t affect the texture of the fudge. Regular liquid food coloring can make the mixture too thin and cause it to set improperly.
What if I can’t find cotton candy flavoring?
You can substitute with vanilla or almond extract, but it won’t have the signature cotton candy flavor. For the authentic taste, cotton candy flavoring is recommended.
Does this fudge need to be kept cold?
Yes, for best texture, keep it refrigerated. It can be left out at room temperature for a short time during serving, but it’s best stored cold.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan if you double the ingredients. You may need to increase the chilling time slightly.
Is this fudge overly sweet?
It is sweet, like traditional fudge, but the creaminess of the white chocolate and the fun cotton candy flavor make it enjoyable in small pieces. Cutting it into bite-sized squares helps with portion control.
Final Thoughts
Cotton Candy Fudge is one of those treats that brings a smile to both kids and adults. It’s easy to make, impossible to ignore, and perfect for adding a splash of fun to any dessert spread. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just looking for something different to try, this fudge offers a playful, flavorful twist on a classic no-bake dessert.
