Who doesn’t love the sweet, airy taste of cotton candy? Now imagine that nostalgic carnival flavor baked into a soft, chewy cookie! This cotton candy cookies recipe combines the best of both worlds, delivering a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether you’re making them for a birthday party, a bake sale, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies will be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fun & Colorful – Swirled with pink and blue hues for a playful touch.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and steps, perfect for beginner bakers.
- Nostalgic Flavor – Captures the classic taste of cotton candy in a delicious cookie form.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cotton candy extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Pink and blue gel food coloring
For the Topping (Optional):
- Sprinkles or edible glitter
- Crushed cotton candy pieces
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and cotton candy extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
Step 2: Add Color & Swirl the Dough
- Divide the dough into two equal portions.
- Add pink food coloring to one half and blue food coloring to the other, mixing each until evenly colored.
- Take small portions of each dough and lightly swirl them together for a marbled effect. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Shape & Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll it into balls.
- Place them on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart and slightly flatten them.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
- While the cookies are still slightly warm, sprinkle crushed cotton candy or edible glitter on top.
- Let the cookies cool completely before serving.
Tips for the Best Cotton Candy Cookies
✔ Use Gel Food Coloring – It provides vibrant colors without affecting the dough consistency.
✔ Do Not Overbake – The cookies should be slightly underbaked in the center for a soft texture.
✔ Enhance the Flavor – Add a drop of almond extract for an extra layer of sweetness.
FAQ
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
Can I freeze cotton candy cookies?
Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Where can I find cotton candy extract?
Most baking supply stores carry it, or you can find it online.
Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
Gel is best, as liquid can alter the dough’s texture. If using liquid, add a little extra flour if the dough becomes too sticky.
What if I don’t have cotton candy extract?
You can use vanilla extract, but the cotton candy flavor will be less prominent.
Final Thoughts
This cotton candy cookies recipe is as fun to make as it is to eat! With its vibrant colors and sweet carnival-inspired flavor, it’s a perfect treat for kids and adults alike.
Try this recipe today and bring the magic of cotton candy to your kitchen!
