Cotton Candy Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cotton Candy Cookies are the ultimate fusion of fun and flavor. They combine the soft, chewy texture of a classic cookie with the sweet, airy taste of cotton candy. The pastel colors make them even more irresistible, bringing a pop of whimsy to any dessert spread. The addition of real fluffy cotton candy pieces inside the cookie adds an unexpected twist that makes each bite even more delightful. These cookies are a playful, sweet treat that is guaranteed to bring smiles to anyone who tries them!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cotton candy (fluffy pieces)
• ¼ teaspoon cotton candy flavoring or extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)
• Pastel food coloring (optional, for added color)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Incorporate cotton candy: Gently fold in the cotton candy pieces. If you want to enhance the flavor, add the cotton candy flavoring or extract. Be careful not to overmix, as the cotton candy may melt into the dough.
7. Add color (optional): If you want to make your cookies pastel-colored, divide the dough into sections and add a few drops of food coloring to each section. Mix until the color is evenly distributed.
8. Scoop and bake: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn golden. The centers may look slightly soft, but they will firm up as the cookies cool.
10. Cool and serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Flavor Variations: While cotton candy flavoring is a fun addition, you can try adding other flavored extracts like bubblegum, vanilla, or strawberry for a different twist.
• Add-ins: You can mix in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or even crushed candy pieces for extra texture and flavor.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to make these cookies gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll stay soft and chewy for several days after baking.
• Freezing: Freeze the cookie dough for up to 2 months. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating: To soften cookies, heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cotton candy?

Yes, you can use store-bought cotton candy! Just break it into small pieces and fold it into the cookie dough. Fresh cotton candy will work best since it’s soft and fluffy.

Can I make these cookies without cotton candy extract?

Yes, the cookies will still have the cotton candy flavor from the actual cotton candy itself. The extract just enhances the taste, but it’s not necessary for the recipe.

What if I can’t find cotton candy flavoring?

If you can’t find cotton candy flavoring, you can try using bubblegum or vanilla flavoring as a substitute, or simply skip it for a more subtle flavor.

Can I make these cookies larger or smaller?

Absolutely! Adjust the cookie size by scooping larger or smaller portions of dough. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly, with larger cookies requiring more time and smaller ones needing less.

How do I get the pastel colors in these cookies?

Use a small amount of food coloring to tint the dough. Divide the dough into portions and add a few drops of coloring to each, then gently mix. This creates a soft, pastel effect.

Can I freeze the baked cookies?

Yes, you can freeze baked cookies as well. Place them in an airtight container or zip-lock bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking.

How do I prevent the cotton candy from melting too much during baking?

Fold the cotton candy in gently and avoid overmixing. It’s normal for some melting to happen during baking, but it adds to the chewy, sweet texture of the cookies.

Can I add other candy or sprinkles to these cookies?

Yes, sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed candies like lollipops or Skittles can be added for extra fun and texture.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes, simply substitute dairy butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use a flax egg to replace the regular egg to make the cookies dairy-free.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Cotton Candy Cookies stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their chewy texture throughout the week.

Conclusion

These Cotton Candy Cookies are a fun, vibrant dessert that captures the magic of the fair. With their chewy, soft texture and sweet, fluffy cotton candy flavor, they are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a themed gathering, or simply craving something sweet and whimsical. Easy to make, delicious to eat, and sure to bring smiles to everyone, these cookies are a treat you won’t want to miss!

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