Cotton Candy Cheesecake Dessert (Print Version)

Creamy cheesecake with cotton candy notes, graham crust, and light sweet topping. Fun, festive, and creamy.

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

→ Filling

04 - 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 cup sour cream
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 4 large eggs
09 - Cotton candy flavoring or syrup, as desired

→ Topping

10 - Cotton candy, for garnish
11 - Sprinkles, optional, for garnish

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and generously grease a 9-inch springform pan.
02 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter in a mixing bowl. Mix until evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
03 - Bake crust for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden. Allow crust to cool completely before proceeding.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and remaining 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
05 - Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and cotton candy flavoring or syrup if using. Mix thoroughly until fully combined.
06 - One at a time, incorporate eggs, mixing just until each is incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent excess air in the batter.
07 - Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until the center is nearly set but still slightly wobbly.
08 - Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or until fully set.
09 - Immediately before serving, top with fresh cotton candy and sprinkles as desired.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure the cheesecake is completely chilled before garnishing with cotton candy to prevent it from dissolving.