There’s something undeniably magical about cotton candy – that sweet, airy treat that melts in your mouth and whisks you back to the fun-filled days of carnivals and fairs.
Now, imagine capturing all that nostalgia in a cake. That’s exactly what this Cotton Candy Cake does, blending soft, fluffy layers with the sugary-sweet essence of cotton candy.
It’s the ultimate celebration cake – perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or just when you’re craving a whimsical dessert that stands out from the crowd.
The first time I made this cake was for my niece’s birthday. She wanted something “fun and pink,” and I thought, why not bring her favorite carnival treat to life?
The best part is the cotton candy flavor comes through without being overpowering – just the right amount of sweet. And here’s a tip: using cotton candy extract gives it that authentic taste while keeping the cake light and moist.
Try More Cake Recipes!
Sweet Symphony Cotton Candy Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Oven
- Cake Stand
- Cotton Candy
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix
- ¼ teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
- 2 boxes white chocolate instant pudding mix
- 3 cups milk
- 1 packet cotton candy
- food coloring
Instructions
- Prepare cake batter as directed, adding ¼ to ½ teaspoon of cotton candy flavoring.
- Pour batter into a greased 13 x 9 inch pan and bake per recipe instructions.
- Cool the cake on a rack for 5-10 minutes.
- Poke holes in the cake using the back of a wooden spoon.
- Mix instant pudding with milk and food coloring, then quickly pour over the cake.
- Chill the cake for an hour, then cover with whipped topping and garnish with cotton candy before serving.
Nutrition
What to Serve with Cotton Candy Cake?
- Vanilla Ice Cream
- Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Fruit Salad with Whipped Cream
- Caramel Apple Butter Ice Cream
A Few Tips for Making the Cotton Candy Cake!
- Cotton Candy Flavoring Intensity: Start with ¼ teaspoon of cotton candy flavoring for a subtle taste, and adjust to your preference. Too much can overpower the delicate flavor.
- Poking Holes in the Cake: Ensure the holes are evenly spaced to allow the pudding mixture to seep through evenly, creating a moist and flavorful cake.
- Speed is Key: When pouring the pudding mixture over the cake, work swiftly to prevent it from thickening before covering the entire surface. A smooth pour ensures even distribution.
- Chilling Time: While tempting, avoid rushing the chilling step. Allowing the cake to set in the fridge for the specified time ensures the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a deliciously moist cake.
- Garnishing with Cotton Candy: Add the cotton candy garnish just before serving to maintain its fluffy texture and vibrant appearance. It adds a whimsical touch and enhances the cotton candy flavor experience.
Terri
Monday 15th of July 2024
What brand of cotton candy flavouring did you use?
Lauren Adams
Tuesday 9th of July 2024
This cake is a dream come true! The cotton candy flavor is spot-on and the presentation is beautiful. Perfect for my niece’s birthday party!
Chris Thompson
Tuesday 9th of July 2024
Amazing recipe! The cake was light and fluffy with just the right amount of sweetness. My kids absolutely loved it. Will make again for sure!
Megan Lee
Tuesday 9th of July 2024
Such a fun and unique cake! The cotton candy flavor brought back so many childhood memories. It was a huge hit at the baby shower I hosted.
David Miller
Tuesday 9th of July 2024
Delicious and whimsical! The cotton candy frosting was a big hit. It’s a showstopper dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion.