Cotton Candy Ice Cream
This homemade Cotton Candy Ice Cream combines the nostalgic sweetness of cotton candy with the creamy texture of ice cream. With vibrant pastel colors and a smooth, rich base, this fun dessert is perfect for parties, special occasions, or whenever you're craving something sweet and whimsical. Easy to make and customizable with fun toppings or variations, this ice cream is sure to delight everyone who tries it!
Equipment
- Ice Cream Maker (1)
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer (1)
- Measuring Cups & Spoons (1 set)
- Freezer-Safe Container: 1
- Spatula (1)
Ingredients
- 2 cups 480 ml Heavy Cream
- 1 cup 240 ml Whole Milk
- 3/4 cup 150 g Granulated Sugar
- 1-2 teaspoons Cotton Candy Flavoring or Extract
- 3-5 drops Food Coloring optional, for pastel shades
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract optional
Instructions
Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Add the Flavoring and Coloring:
- Stir in the cotton candy extract and, if desired, add a few drops of food coloring for a vibrant, pastel color. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Optionally, you can also add vanilla extract for a bit of extra flavor.
Churn the Mixture:
- Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will usually take around 20-25 minutes until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
Freeze the Ice Cream:
- Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula, cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and freeze for at least 4 hours or until the ice cream has firmed up.
Serve:
- Once the ice cream has hardened, scoop it into bowls or cones. Add fun toppings like sprinkles, mini marshmallows, or even a piece of cotton candy for an extra treat!
Notes
- Flavoring: Be sure to use a cotton candy flavoring that is specifically designed for desserts or ice cream. Using too much can overpower the flavor, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
- Consistency: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe. Simply pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it, stirring every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until it reaches the desired consistency (this will take about 3-4 hours).
- Customization: You can add fun mix-ins like mini marshmallows, crushed candies, or rainbow sprinkles during the last few minutes of churning for an extra treat.