A soft, creamy, pastel-swirled ice cream inspired by the joyful sweetness of classic cotton candy. This homemade version captures that dreamy, cloud-like flavor using fresh milk, natural colors, and a smooth churned texture that melts beautifully on the tongue.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cloud Swirl Cotton Candy Ice Cream is a gentle, refreshing dessert that brings childhood nostalgia into every scoop. It’s creamy, lightly sweet, visually stunning, and made with clean, simple ingredients. Whether you’re preparing it for a family treat or enjoying your own quiet moment of indulgence, this recipe turns ordinary ice cream into something magical.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
1 pinch sea salt
4 drops natural pink food coloring
4 drops natural blue food coloring
Directions
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Warm over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, cotton candy flavoring, and sea salt.
Allow the mixture to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thick and creamy.
Divide the churned ice cream into two bowls. Tint one with pink food coloring and the other with blue, stirring gently to create soft pastel shades.
Transfer spoonfuls of each color into a freezer-safe container, alternating to create swirls. Use a butter knife to lightly swirl the colors together without mixing completely.
Cover and freeze for 4–6 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.
Serve cold and enjoy the dreamy cotton candy flavor.
Add mini marshmallows for extra sweetness and a fluffy texture.
Use lavender and pale yellow natural coloring for a different pastel swirl effect.
Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a slightly nutty undertone.
Mix in tiny white chocolate chips for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store the ice cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container. Place plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Since it’s ice cream, reheating is not required—simply let it sit at room temperature for 5–8 minutes before scooping if it becomes too firm.
FAQs
How strong is the cotton candy flavor in this ice cream?
The flavor is light, soft, and sweet, designed to mimic classic cotton candy without overwhelming the palate.
Can I make this without an ice cream maker?
Yes. Freeze the mixture in a shallow dish and stir every 30 minutes for 3 hours until creamy.
Is there a substitute for cotton candy flavoring?
You may use marshmallow flavoring for a similarly soft, sugary profile.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but reducing too much may affect texture. A 20% reduction still gives good results.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Whole milk is recommended for creaminess, but low-fat milk can be used with a slightly icier texture.
Is the food coloring optional?
Yes. The coloring is just for the beautiful pastel swirl, not flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Replace milk and cream with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy dairy-free version.
How do I prevent ice crystals?
Ensure the mixture is fully chilled before churning, and store with plastic wrap touching the surface.
Can I increase the cotton candy flavor?
Yes. Add an extra ½ teaspoon flavoring for a stronger taste.
How long does it take to freeze after churning?
About 4–6 hours, depending on your freezer’s temperature.
Conclusion
Cloud Swirl Cotton Candy Ice Cream is a dreamy, nostalgic dessert that blends soft sweetness with a silky texture and beautiful pastel swirls. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can easily create a handcrafted treat that brings smiles and gentle joy to any moment. Enjoy it on warm days, celebrations, or whenever you want a spoonful of pure, cloud-like delight.
Cloud Swirl Cotton Candy Ice Cream is a creamy, pastel-colored frozen dessert that captures the light, sweet flavor of classic cotton candy. With natural coloring and a smooth churned texture, it’s a whimsical treat for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
1 pinch sea salt
4 drops natural pink food coloring
4 drops natural blue food coloring
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, cotton candy flavoring, and sea salt.
Let the mixture cool, then refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours until thoroughly chilled.
Churn in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thick and creamy.
Divide the ice cream into two bowls. Tint one with pink food coloring, the other with blue. Stir gently to create pastel shades.
Spoon alternating colors into a freezer-safe container. Swirl lightly with a knife to create a marbled effect.
Cover and freeze for 4–6 hours or until firm enough to scoop.
Let sit at room temperature for 5–8 minutes before serving if too firm.
Notes
Plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface helps prevent ice crystals.
Natural coloring is optional and only for aesthetic appeal.
Use marshmallow flavoring as a substitute for cotton candy flavoring if needed.
Let the mixture chill fully before churning for best texture.
Store in an airtight container and consume within 2 weeks for optimal freshness.
