Homemade Cotton Candy Ice Cream

Homemade Cotton Candy Ice Cream

Ingredients:

For the Ice Cream Base:

• 2 cups (500ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (250ml) whole milk
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1½ tsp cotton candy flavoring (available at baking or candy supply stores)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Cotton Candy Effect:

• 2–3 drops pink food coloring
• 2–3 drops blue food coloring
• Optional: Miniature cotton candy pieces for garnish

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot, but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until pale and creamy.
3. Slowly pour about ½ cup of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the yolks.
4. Gradually pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan with the rest of the hot cream mixture, stirring continuously over low heat. Cook for another 5–7 minutes or until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat and strain the custard through a fine sieve to ensure smoothness.
6. Stir in the cotton candy flavoring, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Divide the mixture evenly into two bowls.

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Step 2: Add Color

1. In one bowl, add 2–3 drops of pink food coloring and stir until fully incorporated.
2. In the other bowl, add 2–3 drops of blue food coloring and stir until fully incorporated.

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Step 3: Chill the Custards

1. Cover both bowls with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until completely chilled.

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Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream

1. Churn the pink custard in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes). Transfer the churned pink ice cream into a container and freeze.
2. Rinse the ice cream maker and repeat with the blue custard, churning it into ice cream.

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Step 5: Layer and Swirl

1. In an airtight container, layer the pink and blue ice creams alternately.
2. Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the colors together for a marbled effect, being careful not to overmix.
3. Smooth the top with a spatula and freeze for 4–6 hours or until firm.

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Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and, if desired, top with miniature cotton candy pieces for an extra whimsical touch!

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Why This Recipe Stands Out:

• Nostalgic Flavor: The cotton candy flavoring gives this ice cream a playful, carnival-inspired taste.
• Vibrant Colors: The pink and blue swirls mimic the look of real cotton candy, making it visually stunning.
• Fun for All Ages: This ice cream is perfect for parties, kids' events, or anyone who loves a touch of whimsy.

Enjoy the sweet, creamy, and colorful magic of cotton candy in every scoop! 🍦🎨✨