Description
Delight in the whimsical flavors of these Cotton Candy Cupcakes! With colorful swirls, cotton candy-flavored frosting, and playful garnishes, they’re perfect for celebrations or bringing a nostalgic touch to any dessert table.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 4 egg whites
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp cotton candy flavoring
- Pink and blue food coloring
For the Cotton Candy Frosting:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1–1.5 tsp cotton candy flavoring
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream (or milk)
- 3–4 cups confectioners’ sugar
For Garnish:
- Blue and pink sanding sugar
- Blue and pink cotton candy
- Popsicle sticks
Instructions
- Prepare the Cupcakes:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
- Combine cake mix, egg whites, oil, water, and cotton candy flavoring. Mix until smooth.
- Divide batter into two bowls and tint one pink and the other blue.
- Spoon alternating layers of pink and blue batter into liners, filling 2/3 full. Swirl with a toothpick for a marbled effect, if desired.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Make the Frosting:
- Beat softened butter until creamy. Add vanilla and cotton candy flavoring.
- Gradually mix in confectioners’ sugar, alternating with cream, until fluffy. Adjust consistency as needed.
- Divide frosting into two bowls and tint one pink and the other blue.
- Frost and Garnish:
- Fill a piping bag with both frosting colors for a swirled effect. Pipe onto cooled cupcakes.
- Sprinkle sanding sugar and top with cotton candy. Add popsicle sticks for flair.
Notes
- Add cotton candy garnish just before serving to prevent melting.
- For ombre frosting, layer colors while piping instead of swirling.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
