Whimsical Rainbow Cotton Candy Cups
A playful and colorful treat that captures the magic of carnival cotton candy in easy-to-make layered cups. Perfect for parties and celebrations, these cotton candy cups combine vibrant colors with a crisp cup shell for a delightful texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups granulated sugar (400g)
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup (120ml)
- 1/2 cup water (120ml)
- Assorted food coloring gels (red, blue, yellow, green, purple)
- Flavored extracts (optional; vanilla, raspberry, lemon)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Mini paper or silicone cups
- Vegetable oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace and cups: Lightly spray the silicone or paper cups with vegetable oil spray, then dust them lightly with powdered sugar to help cotton candy cups release easily once formed.
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Boil the mixture without stirring until it reaches 320°F (160°C), the hard crack stage, using a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and quickly pour the syrup into separate small heatproof bowls depending on the number of colors desired. Add a few drops of gel food coloring and a splash of flavored extract to each bowl. Stir gently but swiftly.
- Using a hand mixer or whisk, briskly whisk each colored syrup until it starts to fluff and lighten in color, resembling thin strands or wisps.
- Carefully spoon or twirl each color into the prepared cups, layering to create a whimsical rainbow effect. Let the cotton candy cups set on a wire rack for about 20 minutes to firm up.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar again if desired, then serve immediately or store in an airtight container to keep fluffiness intact.
Notes
Use gel-based food coloring to avoid adding extra liquid which can affect texture. If syrup crystallizes, reheat gently with a dash of water and lemon juice. Work quickly when whisking colored syrup to create fluffy strands. Dust cups with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Store cotton candy cups in an airtight container at room temperature and consume within 24 hours for best fluffiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cotton candy cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 30
- Carbohydrates: 30
Keywords: cotton candy, rainbow, party treat, easy dessert, colorful, kids dessert, carnival, sweet treat