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Silky smooth cheesecake infused with the whimsical flavor of cotton candy creates a dessert that balances nostalgic carnival sweetness with sophisticated creaminess. The buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect foundation for the cloud-like filling studded with delicate pieces of real cotton candy. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and garnished with additional cotton candy, this showstopping dessert brings playful fairground magic to your table while maintaining the elegant appeal of a classic cheesecake.
I created this recipe for my daughter's birthday after she requested something that combined her two favorite treats. The look on her face when she saw the finished cheesecake was priceless, but the ultimate compliment came when her typically dessert-indifferent grandfather asked for seconds. This cheesecake has since become our family's most requested celebration dessert, blending childhood whimsy with grown-up sophistication.
Sweet Essentials
- Graham crackers: Create a traditional, buttery crust that complements the sweet filling
- Granulated sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese for perfect sweetness
- Unsalted butter: Binds the crust while adding rich flavor that grounds the dessert
- Cream cheese: Provides the foundation for a silky smooth, tangy base
- Sour cream: Adds moisture and extra creaminess to the filling
- All-purpose flour: Stabilizes the filling to prevent cracking during baking
- Large eggs: Bind everything together while adding richness and structure
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with warm aromatic notes
- Cotton candy: Brings that distinctive fairground sweetness throughout the filling
- Heavy cream: Creates a billowy topping that complements the dense cheesecake
Baking Method
- Crust Preparation:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl, mixing thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan and bake at 325°F for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Allow to cool.
- Filling Creation:
- Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until completely smooth. Add sugar gradually, then mix in sour cream and flour. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated.
- Cotton Candy Incorporation:
- Tear fresh cotton candy into small pieces and fold gently into the batter to distribute pockets of sweetness throughout.
- Baking Technique:
- Pour filling over cooled crust, smooth the top, and bake at 325°F for 60-70 minutes until edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off oven, prop the door open, and cool gradually before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
- Topping Application:
- Whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Pipe onto the cheesecake and add cotton candy garnish just before serving.
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You Must Know
Beautiful Presentation
Create a magical dessert table centerpiece by surrounding the cotton candy cheesecake with coordinating sweet treats such as macarons, meringue kisses, and rock candy sticks. For an elegant dinner party, serve mini versions in glass cups with layers of graham crust, filling, and whipped cream.
Flavor Adaptations
Blue Raspberry Cotton Candy Cheesecake: Use blue raspberry flavored cotton candy and add a teaspoon of blue raspberry jam. Strawberry Shortcake Fusion: Add strawberry-flavored cotton candy and swirl in strawberry jam before baking. Chocolate Lover’s Version: Use chocolate cotton candy, add cocoa powder to the filling, and garnish with chocolate curls.
Storage Solutions
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, removing cotton candy garnish before storing. For longer storage, freeze for up to one month, wrapping tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding final garnishes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Does the cotton candy completely dissolve in the cheesecake?
- The cotton candy pieces in the filling will mostly dissolve during baking, infusing the cheesecake with flavor. Always add the cotton candy garnish just before serving, as it will dissolve if left on too long.
- → Can I use flavored cotton candy for this recipe?
- Yes, different flavors of cotton candy will work and can add interesting taste variations. Try strawberry, blue raspberry, or vanilla cotton candy to complement the cheesecake.
- → How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath by wrapping the springform pan in foil and placing it in a larger pan with hot water. Also, allow it to cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar.
- → Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
- Yes, the cheesecake can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Add the whipped cream and cotton candy garnish just before serving.
- → What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?
- Vanilla wafers, golden Oreos, or shortbread cookies make excellent alternatives for the crust and can complement the sweet cotton candy flavor.