Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge is the ultimate showstopper treat that will instantly transport you to a cosmic carnival with every bite. Imagine velvety, melt-in-your-mouth fudge infused with whimsical cotton candy flavor and swirling ribbons of pastel color that look just like a magical night sky. It’s as fun to make as it is to eat, offering a playful twist on classic fudge and making every occasion feel extra-special—whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an unforgettable edible gift, or just craving some color in your dessert lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Ingredients:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon cotton candy extract
- Gel food coloring in purple, blue, and pink
- Edible glitter or star sprinkles for garnish
How to Make Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Begin by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy lifting later on. Lightly grease the paper for extra insurance against sticking. This simple step shapes your fudge into easy-to-cut, tidy squares and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Melt the Base
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Gently stir them together constantly—don’t walk away—until the mixture is silky smooth and fully melted, with no streaks or lumps. Low heat is key here to prevent scorching or seizing!
Step 3: Add That Cotton Candy Magic
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cotton candy extract, mixing thoroughly to ensure your fudge base is infused all the way through with that carnival sweetness. This step is where your kitchen officially starts to smell like a wonderland.
Step 4: Divide and Color the Mixture
Evenly divide the warm fudge mixture into three bowls. Add a drop or two of purple, blue, and pink gel food coloring to each bowl and mix until you have three vivid pastel shades. Add a little more color if you want an extra-bright galaxy effect—just remember, less is more at first!
Step 5: Swirl and Set the Galaxy
Drop spoonfuls of each colored mixture into the prepared pan, alternating as you go to scatter the colors around. Once you’ve used up all the fudge, use a clean knife or skewer to gently swirl the colors together, creating that otherworldly galaxy effect (careful not to overmix, or the colors will get muddy). Shower the top with edible glitter or star sprinkles, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until perfectly set.
How to Serve Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge
Garnishes
Lean into the celestial theme with plenty of edible glitter, pearlized sugar, or tiny star-shaped sprinkles on top. For an extra-luxe look, a tiny sprinkle of flake salt can add just a hint of contrast, making the colors pop even more and balancing out the sweetness.
Side Dishes
While Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge is a solo superstar, it’s also incredible alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, tucked into a whimsical dessert platter, or served with fresh berries for a vibrant flavor contrast. For parties, try pairing it with colorful fruit skewers or lightly salted popcorn for a fun, festive spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Give each fudge square its own tiny cupcake wrapper for easy, mess-free serving at parties. For gifting, place the pieces in a clear cellophane bag and tie with a ribbon—those swirling pastel colors practically sell themselves! You can also stack them in a glass jar for a “galaxy in a jar,” letting all those shimmering swirls shine through.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge at its freshest and fudgiest, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay perfect for up to a week—if it lasts that long! Just layer parchment or wax paper between the squares to prevent sticking.
Freezing
Fudge freezes wonderfully. Arrange your cut pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready for a treat, thaw the fudge in the refrigerator overnight for best results; the colors and flavors will still shine!
Reheating
While you won’t need to reheat this no-bake treat in the traditional sense, if your fudge becomes too cold and firm from the fridge or freezer, just let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This brings back the creamy texture and intensifies the fudge’s flavor.
FAQs
What if I can’t find cotton candy extract?
No worries! You can substitute vanilla extract for a classic fudge flavor, or try other fun extracts like almond or raspberry. The cotton candy extract is what truly makes this fudge whimsical, but your fudge will still be delicious with any favorite flavor.
Why use gel food coloring instead of liquid?
Gel food coloring is highly concentrated, so you get vibrant, vivid colors without having to use a lot. Liquids can thin out the fudge mixture and leave dull hues, but gels keep everything bold and bright for that showstopping galaxy effect.
How do I avoid swirling the colors too much?
When swirling, less is more—just a few gentle figure-eights with a skewer or butter knife will create stunning marble-like swirls without blending the colors into one. Stop as soon as you see a clear, cosmic pattern forming to keep each shade distinct.
Can I use different colors in my fudge?
Absolutely! Make this recipe your own by using any combination of pastel or neon colors you like. Teal, lavender, and mint can all add to the otherworldly charm—just keep at least three contrasting colors for the prettiest galaxy swirls.
Is Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge beginner-friendly?
This recipe is perfect for beginners or anyone making fudge for the first time. You don’t need a candy thermometer or fancy equipment—just a little patience, some creative swirling, and you’re on your way to a batch of bakery-quality fudge!
Final Thoughts
Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge isn’t just a treat; it’s a celebration in every bite, each piece bursting with fun, color, and fantasy. If you’re craving a dessert that’s both eye-catching and easy, I can’t recommend this recipe enough—so gather your favorite colors and flavors, and get ready for a culinary adventure among the stars!
Print
Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the whimsical and colorful delight of Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge. This no-bake dessert is a treat for the eyes and the taste buds, perfect for parties or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon cotton candy extract
- Gel food coloring in purple, blue, and pink
- Edible glitter or star sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a saucepan over low heat, melt white chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add Flavor: Remove from heat and stir in cotton candy extract.
- Color the Mixture: Divide the mixture into three bowls and tint each with a different gel food coloring.
- Create the Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of each color into the pan, alternating colors. Swirl gently with a knife or skewer.
- Chill: Sprinkle with glitter or star sprinkles and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Serve: Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For brighter colors, use gel-based food coloring.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Vanilla extract can be a substitute for cotton candy extract.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 23 g
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
