Step right up to a delightful treat that captures the essence of a funfair—Cotton Candy Cupcakes! These whimsical cupcakes combine the nostalgic flavors of cotton candy with the colorful joy of a carnival. Perfect for parties or a special treat for cotton candy lovers, they’re a festive addition to any dessert table.
Ingredients
For the Cupcake Wonderland
- 1 box premium white cake mix
- 4 egg whites
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp cotton candy flavoring
- Pink and blue food coloring
For the Whimsical Frosting & Dazzling Toppings
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 to 1½ tsp cotton candy flavoring
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream or milk
- 3-4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- Blue and pink sanding sugar
- Blue and pink cotton candy
- Popsicle sticks
Directions
Prepare and Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line muffin tins with paper liners.
- Mix cake mix, egg whites, oil, water, and flavoring until smooth. Divide and color the batter.
- Layer the pink and blue batters in the muffin cups. Bake for 15-18 minutes.
Make the Frosting
- While cupcakes cool, whip butter, vanilla, flavoring, and sugar. Gradually add cream to achieve desired consistency.
- Divide and tint the frosting pink and blue.
Decorate
- Pipe frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Sprinkle with sanding sugar.
- Attach cotton candy to popsicle sticks and adorn each cupcake just before serving.
Tips
- Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors.
- Add cotton candy garnishes just before serving to prevent them from dissolving.
FAQs
Q: How can I prevent the cotton candy from melting on the cupcakes? A: Attach the cotton candy just before serving to ensure it retains its fluffy texture.
Q: Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance, but add the frosting and decorations on the day of serving for best results.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
18 minutes
Total Time
About 1 hour (including decoration and cooling)
Yield
Makes about 24 cupcakes
Category
Dessert
Method
Baking
Cuisine
American
Diet
Vegetarian
Conclusion
Cotton Candy Cupcakes are a delightful way to bring a touch of carnival magic to any celebration. These colorful and tasty treats not only look spectacular but are also sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. Whether you’re throwing a birthday party, a baby shower, or just indulging in a sweet fantasy, these cupcakes promise a taste of the extraordinary. Enjoy the smiles they bring as much as the unique flavor they offer!