If you have a sweet tooth and a love for whimsical treats, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe. Imagine creamy, buttery fudge bursting with a dreamy cotton candy flavor, all swirled with vibrant pinks, blues, and purples to mimic a stunning galaxy right on your plate. This recipe captures the magic of childhood carnival sweets but elevates it into a sophisticated, melt-in-your-mouth indulgence that’s perfect for sharing—or not!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build that perfect balance of creamy texture, luscious flavor, and otherworldly color that makes this fudge truly special.
- White chocolate chips: These give the fudge a rich, smooth base and creamy sweetness that melts perfectly.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds luscious moisture and body, ensuring the fudge sets up soft but firm.
- Unsalted butter: Brings a velvety richness and helps create the fudge’s smooth texture.
- Cotton candy extract: The star of the show, delivering that unmistakable nostalgic flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the depth of flavor without overpowering the cotton candy notes.
- Food coloring (pink, blue, and purple): Essential for creating the vivid galaxy swirls that make this fudge so eye-catching.
- Sprinkles or edible glitter (optional): For an extra touch of sparkle that mimics stardust.
How to Make Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This little step is a lifesaver later on—it makes removing the fudge from the pan a breeze and helps you cut perfect squares without sticking.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly until everything is melted down into one silky, smooth mixture. This careful melting prevents scorching and ensures your fudge will be flawlessly creamy.
Step 3: Add the Extracts
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cotton candy extract and vanilla extract. These fragrant additions are what transform this fudge into a whimsical treat reminiscent of cotton candy dreams.
Step 4: Divide and Color
Pour the fudge mixture evenly into three separate bowls. Now for the fun part: add pink food coloring to one bowl, blue to the second, and purple to the third. Stir each until the color is fully mixed, creating vibrant pastel shades that are sure to dazzle.
Step 5: Create the Galaxy Swirls
Begin spooning the colored fudge mixtures into your prepared pan in alternating layers—think pink, blue, then purple, and repeat until all your fudge is in the pan. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the colors together gently, forming a marbled galaxy pattern that’s as mesmerizing as it is delicious.
Step 6: Let It Set
Allow your fudge to set at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours, or speed things up by refrigerating for about an hour. The fudge will firm up to the perfect consistency for cutting and serving.
Step 7: Slice and Garnish
Once firm, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper edges and slice it into squares. Feel free to sprinkle on edible glitter or colorful sprinkles for that extra bit of sparkle—you’re basically holding a slice of the stars!
How to Serve Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
A touch of edible glitter, iridescent sprinkles, or even a tiny drizzle of white chocolate paint the perfect finishing picture on your fudge squares. These little details not only add visual magic but also a subtle textural contrast that makes each bite an experience.
Side Dishes
This fudge shines as a standalone treat, but pairing it with a simple scoop of vanilla or cotton candy-flavored ice cream takes the indulgence to the next level. Fresh berries on the side can also cut through the richness and brighten the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not use small clear treat bags tied with starry ribbon for party favors? Or serve your Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe on a mirrored tray to amplify its cosmic vibe. Layered in a trifle bowl with whipped cream and colorful candy bits, it can even serve as a dazzling dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your fudge fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. It should stay perfectly soft and delicious for about two weeks, making it an easy treat to enjoy over multiple occasions.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for later, wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge holds up well and can be kept for up to three months without losing any of its creamy charm.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cool or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t typically necessary. If it feels a little firm after refrigeration or freezing, just let it sit on the counter for 15–20 minutes before serving to regain its softness.
FAQs
Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of cotton candy extract?
Vanilla extract alone won’t give you that signature cotton candy flavor, but you can combine both for a balanced taste. The cotton candy extract is key to capturing the playful, nostalgic essence of this fudge.
Do I have to use multiple food colors for the swirl effect?
Using pink, blue, and purple brings out the true galaxy vibe, but you can experiment with your favorite colors. Just remember that the swirling effect depends on having at least two contrasting shades!
Can I make this fudge without sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is important for texture and sweetness. If you substitute it, the fudge may not set correctly or be as creamy. It’s best to stick with the recipe as written for perfect results.
What can I substitute for white chocolate chips?
High-quality white chocolate bars chopped into pieces work well too. Just be sure to melt gently to avoid scorching, and your fudge will turn out just as smooth and creamy.
Is the Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! This colorful, sweet fudge is a huge hit with kids and adults alike. Just keep an eye on the texture while swirling to make sure the colors blend beautifully without mixing too much.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat, the Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe is calling your name. It’s straightforward to make, spectacularly delicious, and brings a cosmic burst of whimsy to any occasion. Trust me, once you try this fudge, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite sweet treats to share and savor!
Print
Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Galaxy Swirl Cotton Candy Fudge is a whimsical and colorful treat that combines creamy white chocolate with the nostalgic flavors of cotton candy and vanilla. This easy-to-make fudge features vibrant pink, blue, and purple swirls, creating a mesmerizing galaxy effect perfect for parties or fun desserts. Garnished with optional edible glitter or sprinkles, this fudge delights both the eyes and palate with its sweet, smooth texture and playful appearance.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon cotton candy extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coloring and Garnish
- Food coloring (pink, blue, and purple)
- Sprinkles or edible glitter (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal of the fudge later.
- Melt Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and completely melted.
- Add Flavors: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cotton candy extract and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Divide Mixture: Pour the fudge mixture evenly into three separate bowls.
- Color the Fudge: Add a few drops of pink food coloring to one bowl, blue to the second, and purple to the third. Stir each until the colors are fully mixed in.
- Layer and Swirl: Spoon the differently colored fudge mixtures into the baking dish in alternating layers. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the colors together, creating a galaxy-like pattern.
- Set the Fudge: Allow the fudge to set at room temperature for 2-3 hours or refrigerate for 1 hour until firm.
- Cut and Remove: Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang and cut into 16 squares.
- Garnish (Optional): Decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter for an extra sparkle effect.
- Serve: Enjoy the colorful, creamy cotton candy-flavored fudge as a delightful treat.
Notes
- Make sure to stir constantly during melting to prevent the chocolate from burning or seizing.
- Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without thinning the fudge.
- The cotton candy extract gives a unique flavor but can be adjusted or omitted based on taste preferences.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerated for longer freshness.
- Allow fudge to come to room temperature before serving if refrigerated to enhance texture and flavor.
