Cotton Candy Fudge Swirl Treat

If you love playful party worthy treats you will adore this easy cotton candy fudge. The first time I made it was for my niece's birthday and the bright swirls instantly became the star of the dessert table. It combines all the whimsy of a carnival treat with the creamy richness of classic fudge so both kids and grownups cannot get enough.

When I first brought out a platter of this at a summer sleepover party the kids were squealing and adults kept sneaking pieces too. It makes the kitchen smell like a sweet cloud.

Ingredients

• White chocolate chips: for creamy texture and sweet vanilla undertone always look for bright white chips without yellow spots for best color
• Sweetened condensed milk: gives the fudge its signature rich smoothness make sure to grab the full fat version for the best set
• Unsalted butter: adds melt in your mouth richness and balances sweetness use high quality butter for richer flavor
• Cotton candy flavoring: brings in that hit of nostalgic carnival sweetness use only flavorings labeled for baking so it blends smoothly
• Pink gel food coloring: creates those dreamy pastel clouds go for gel instead of liquid so the mixture stays thick
• Purple gel food coloring: adds contrast and whimsy to the swirls pick a shade that pops but does not overpower the pink

Instructions

Prep the Pan:

Line an eight inch square pan with parchment paper leaving enough extra at the sides so you can lift out the fudge later. Press the paper into the edges to help keep the swirls in place

Melt the Base:

Combine white chocolate chips sweetened condensed milk and butter in a saucepan and stir constantly over medium heat. Cook for about six to seven minutes until everything is melted smooth and glossy. Watch closely to keep the mixture from catching or burning

Split and Color:

Pour half of the warm mixture into a heatproof bowl and the rest into a second bowl. To one bowl add one teaspoon of cotton candy flavoring and a few drops of pink gel food coloring. To the other add the remaining teaspoon of flavoring and a few drops of purple coloring. Mix each bowl very well so the color is vibrant and the flavor is even

Layer and Swirl:

Using two spoons drop random spoonfuls of pink and purple fudge into the lined pan. Continue until all the mixtures are used up. Take a butter knife and gently swirl the colors together in wide figure eight motions but do not overmix so you see pretty distinct ribbons

Chill:

Press another piece of parchment lightly on the fudge's surface. Place the pan in the refrigerator for two hours or leave at room temperature for about four hours until fully set and firm

Serve:

Once the fudge is set firm use the parchment to lift it from the pan. Place on a cutting board slice into squares and try not to eat half the tray before serving

Cotton candy flavoring is my favorite part because it immediately makes me think of summer carnivals from my childhood. Once my niece asked for blue and pink swirls to match her favorite dress and it came out so festive and fun

Storage Tips

Store cut fudge in an airtight container layered with parchment paper to prevent pieces from sticking together. It will last up to five days at room temperature or a week in the fridge. For ultra fresh texture serve right after chilling

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find cotton candy flavoring try strawberry or raspberry flavoring for a twist. Any high quality white baking chips can be swapped for white chocolate chips. For dairy free try coconut condensed milk and plant based white chips but the set may be a little softer

Serving Suggestions

Pile fudge squares high on a party platter with extra sprinkles. Wrap pieces in cellophane for a magical homemade gift. Tuck a square into lunchboxes for a happy surprise

Cultural and Seasonal Context

This fudge captures the nostalgia of fairs and amusement parks popular in summer but is welcome at every celebration. During holidays try swirls of red and green or blue and silver for a seasonal spin

Seasonal Adaptations

Make it with pastel yellow and robin's egg blue for spring events. Layer orange and deep purple for Halloween. Use red and green with a hint of peppermint for a wintery treat

Success Stories

Friends and family always ask for this recipe after trying it at gatherings. It is so easy that even kids can help spoon and swirl the colors. The fudge brings big smiles and always disappears quickly

Freezer Meal Conversion

This fudge freezes beautifully. Layer cut pieces with parchment in a sealed freezer safe container. Thaw at room temperature for one hour before serving and the colors and flavor will still pop

Try this recipe and you will see why it is a favorite for parties and celebrations. Each bite delivers a burst of nostalgia and creamy sweetness!

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other food coloring brands?

Yes, you can use any gel-based food coloring for vibrant results. Just match the approximate amount and blend thoroughly for even color.

→ How do I prevent chocolate from seizing?

Stir constantly over gentle heat and avoid any contact with water. Melt ingredients slowly for a smooth, glossy consistency.

→ What if I don't have cotton candy flavoring?

The fudge will still be tasty, but the nostalgic cotton candy taste will be missing. Consider trying vanilla or berry extracts for a different twist.

→ Can I double this for a larger batch?

Yes, double all ingredients and use a larger pan. Adjust chilling time as needed to ensure the fudge sets completely.

→ How should I store these treats?

Keep fudge squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.