Cotton Candy Ice Cream Recipe
This homemade Cotton Candy Ice Cream recipe is an easy and nostalgic treat that brings the fun of the carnival right to your kitchen! Made with just heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, cotton candy flavoring, and food coloring, it’s a no-churn recipe that requires no ice cream maker. Simply whip the heavy cream, fold in the condensed milk and flavoring, divide into two bowls to add pink and blue food coloring, and swirl together for that classic cotton candy look.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls: A large mixing bowl for combining the ingredients.
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer To whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring a creamy texture.
- Spatula or Spoon: For gently folding in the sweetened condensed milk and flavoring.
- Freezer-Safe Container: To store the ice cream while it freezes. A container with a tight-fitting lid is ideal.
- Butter Knife or Skewer For swirling the pink and blue mixtures together to create the marbled effect.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons cotton candy flavoring or extract
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in 1 can of sweetened condensed milk and 1-2 teaspoons of cotton candy flavoring.
- Divide the mixture into two bowls and add pink food coloring to one and blue to the other, mixing until well combined.
- In a freezer-safe container, alternate spooning layers of pink and blue mixtures, then swirl gently.
- Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours before serving, garnishing with sprinkles or cotton candy if desired.
Notes
-
Whipping the Cream:
- Be careful not to overwhip the heavy cream. Stop when you reach stiff peaks to ensure a smooth, creamy texture in your ice cream.
-
Flavoring Adjustment:
- The amount of cotton candy flavoring can be adjusted based on your taste preference. Start with 1 teaspoon and increase gradually if you want a stronger flavor.
-
Coloring:
- Use gel food coloring for the best results. Liquid coloring may dilute the mixture, affecting the texture.
-
Freezing Time:
- Ensure you allow at least 6 hours for the ice cream to freeze completely. For the best texture, freezing overnight is ideal.
-
Storage:
- Store any leftover ice cream in a tightly sealed container in the freezer to prevent ice crystals from forming. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing for added protection.
-
Customization:
- Feel free to get creative! You can add mix-ins like mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, or even crushed candy for a fun twist on the traditional flavor.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- This ice cream pairs wonderfully with waffle cones, or you can serve it in colorful bowls topped with sprinkles or small pieces of cotton candy for an extra festive touch.