Cotton Candy Recipe

Measure & flavor

In a heatproof bowl or small saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons corn syrup. Add 1 teaspoon flavored extract and 2 drops food coloring. Stir gently to distribute; mixture will be thick and slightly clumpy but should be evenly colored.

Dissolve sugar

If using a saucepan, warm the mixture over very low heat while stirring until sugar is mostly dissolved and color is uniform (do not boil). If using a candy-plate cotton candy machine that accepts pre-mixed sugar, you may skip warming and add the dry/powdered version (see note).

Heat to candy temperature

Transfer the sugar mixture to a small heavy-bottomed saucepan if not already there. Attach a candy thermometer. Heat over medium heat without stirring until the sugar syrup reaches 320°F (160°C) — the hard‑crack stage. If you prefer a slightly softer thread, stop at 300–310°F (149–154°C). Watch closely to avoid burning.

Prepare machine and tools

While syrup heats, plug in and preheat your cotton candy machine according to manufacturer instructions. Have paper cones or wooden sticks ready and lightly dusted with powdered sugar so threads adhere. Use heatproof gloves or tongs for safety.

Spin the cotton candy

Once syrup reaches target temperature, carefully pour a small amount (per machine capacity) into the machine's spinning head. Turn on the spinner if not already on. Using a paper cone or stick, hold it near the rim of the bowl and rotate it while collecting the fine sugar threads. Build the candy by rotating and sweeping to form a fluffy cloud. Continue adding small amounts of syrup and spinning until you have 8 cones or until sugar is used.

Shape each cone into a round puff by gently rolling the stick through the spun sugar. If threads are sticky, let the spun cones sit in a cool, dry place for a minute to firm slightly. Dust your hands or the cone with a little powdered sugar to prevent sticking while shaping.

Serve immediately. Cotton candy is best fresh; store any leftovers in an airtight container for a few hours in a cool, dry place (not refrigerated).