Description
This light and fluffy Cotton Candy Frosting brings the nostalgic sweetness of carnival treats to your baked goods. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, this frosting combines creamy butter with the whimsical flavor of cotton candy, enhanced by optional pastel food coloring to create a fun and charming finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring (available at baking supply stores or online)
- 1–2 drops food coloring (optional, for pastel pink or blue color)
Instructions
- Beat the Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud. Once all sugar is incorporated, increase the speed to medium and beat until fully combined.
- Add Cream and Flavoring: Add the heavy cream incrementally, one tablespoon at a time, adjusting until the frosting reaches your desired consistency—thicker for piping or thinner for spreading. Then, add the cotton candy flavoring and beat until evenly incorporated.
- Add Food Coloring (Optional): For the classic cotton candy appearance, add 1-2 drops of food coloring and mix until the color is evenly distributed. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed to achieve the perfect pastel hue.
- Frost and Serve: Use a spatula or piping bag to frost your cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Allow the frosting to set for a few minutes to firm up before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing without lumps.
- Adjust powdered sugar quantity according to your preferred sweetness and desired thickness.
- If cotton candy flavoring is not available, you may substitute with a combination of vanilla and a hint of bubblegum extract for a similar effect.
- Frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week; re-whip before using.
- For vegan or dairy-free versions, substitute butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives and adjust consistency accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert Topping
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
