Cotton Candy Ice Cream Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cotton candy ice cream is a showstopper in both taste and presentation. The combination of creamy whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk creates a rich, velvety base, while the cotton candy extract adds a nostalgic, sugary twist. The vibrant pink and blue swirls are not only visually appealing but also taste just as delightful as they look. Plus, it’s a no-churn recipe, which means you don’t need an ice cream maker to create this sweet masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just want a fun dessert for the family, this recipe delivers all the magic of cotton candy in an ice cream form.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (35% cream), chilled

• 1 (10-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk, chilled

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon cotton candy extract

• Red and blue food coloring

• Sprinkles, optional

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Line a baking pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. In a mixing bowl, whip the chilled heavy whipping cream for about 4 minutes until soft peaks form.

3. Stir in the vanilla extract, sweetened condensed milk, and cotton candy extract.

4. Divide the mixture evenly into two bowls.

5. Add food coloring to each bowl, dyeing one pink and the other light blue.

6. Pour the pink ice cream mixture into the prepared loaf pan and smooth it down with a spoon or spatula.

7. Drop spoonfuls of the blue ice cream mixture randomly over the pink ice cream, then use the spoon to gently swirl them together.

8. Cover the pan with a piece of cling wrap, letting it rest directly on top of the ice cream. Then cover the whole pan with foil.

9. Freeze for 2 hours or overnight until firm.

10. Scoop out and top with sprinkles, if desired, before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including freezing)

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use coconut cream or other dairy-free substitutes in place of heavy whipping cream, and choose a plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternative.

• Flavor Twist: Try adding a little cotton candy-flavored syrup or your favorite candy mix-ins for an extra burst of flavor.

• Different Colors: If you want more colorful swirls, you can opt for multiple food coloring shades (such as pink, blue, and purple) to create a vibrant rainbow effect.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cotton candy ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or wax paper to prevent freezer burn.

• Reheating: Since this is an ice cream recipe, no reheating is necessary. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes if it’s too hard to scoop.

FAQs

1. How long can I store cotton candy ice cream?

Cotton candy ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks for the best flavor and texture.

2. Can I use regular cotton candy for this recipe?

While regular cotton candy is delicious, it’s best to use cotton candy extract in this recipe for a consistent and smooth flavor that blends well with the ice cream base.

3. What is cotton candy extract?

Cotton candy extract is a concentrated flavoring made to mimic the taste of cotton candy. It is available at craft stores and online.

4. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, a hand mixer will work just as well as a stand mixer to whip the heavy cream and form soft peaks.

5. How do I know when my whipped cream has reached soft peaks?

Soft peaks form when you lift the beater or whisk out of the whipped cream, and it forms a gentle peak that curls over at the tip.

6. Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel food coloring?

Yes, you can, but you may need to use more drops of liquid food coloring to achieve the desired color compared to gel food coloring.

7. Is it necessary to chill the ingredients before making the ice cream?

Yes, chilling the heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and mixing bowl helps the ingredients whip better and freeze faster.

8. What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

You can use any freezer-safe dish to make this ice cream. Just make sure it’s lined with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the ice cream after freezing.

9. Can I make this ice cream without cotton candy extract?

While the cotton candy extract gives the ice cream its signature flavor, you can substitute it with vanilla extract or other sweet flavorings, though the taste won’t be quite the same.

10. Can I add mix-ins like candy or chocolate?

Yes, you can fold in mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, or crushed candies into the ice cream mixture before freezing for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This cotton candy ice cream is an easy, no-churn recipe that’s perfect for hot summer days or any occasion where you want to impress with something fun and colorful. The combination of sweet, creamy texture and playful colors will make it a hit with everyone. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience while it freezes, you’ll have a delightful homemade treat that brings the fairground fun right to your kitchen.