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Cotton Candy Frosting

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  • Author: chefisraa
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Total Time: 10 mins
  • Yield: Frosts 1824 cupcakes 1x
  • Category: Frosting / Topping
  • Method: Whip
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A whimsical, sweet frosting with the nostalgic flavor of cotton candy—perfect for topping cupcakes, cakes, or cookies with a fun pastel swirl.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 23 tbsp heavy cream or milk
  • 1/2 tsp cotton candy flavoring (LorAnn or similar)
  • Food coloring (optional: pink and blue for classic cotton candy effect)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, beat softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer until creamy and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
  3. Add cotton candy flavoring, a pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons cream or milk. Beat until smooth and fluffy, adding more cream 1 teaspoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
  4. If using food coloring, divide frosting into two bowls. Tint one bowl pink and the other blue. Swirl together slightly when piping for a two-tone effect.
  5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before using.

Notes

  • Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without thinning the frosting.
  • Flavor intensity can vary—start with 1/4 tsp cotton candy flavoring and adjust to taste.
  • Add 1/2 tsp vanilla extract for a creamy depth if desired.
  • Pipe with a star tip for a carnival-style swirl on cupcakes or cookies.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tbsp
  • Calories: 140 kcal
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 15 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg