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No-Churn Cotton Candy Ice Cream Recipe

4.8 from 111 reviews

This no-churn cotton candy ice cream is a fun and whimsical treat that requires no ice cream maker. Made with heavy whipping cream, sweetened condensed milk, and cotton candy flavoring, it’s creamy, sweet, and perfect for summer. Optional pink and blue food coloring give it a playful pastel look reminiscent of classic cotton candy at fairs.

Ingredients

Scale

Ice Cream Base

  • 2 cups very cold heavy whipping cream
  • 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk, cold
  • 2 teaspoons cotton candy flavoring

Optional Add-Ins

  • Food coloring in pink and blue

Instructions

  1. Prepare the whipping cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the very cold heavy cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer at medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This means when you lift the beaters, the cream holds its shape firmly.
  2. Combine condensed milk and flavoring: In a separate bowl, gently mix the cold sweetened condensed milk with the cotton candy flavoring until fully incorporated. If using food coloring, add a few drops of pink or blue to the condensed milk mixture and mix well to achieve desired pastel shades.
  3. Fold together: Carefully fold the flavored condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream in batches to avoid deflating the whipped cream. Use a spatula and gentle motions until thoroughly combined and smooth.
  4. Color layering (optional): For a cotton candy swirl effect, divide the mixture into two bowls and tint one pink and one blue. Alternate spoonfuls of each color into a loaf pan or container and gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled appearance.
  5. Freeze: Cover the container tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and place in the freezer. Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight until the ice cream is firm and scoopable.
  6. Serve: When ready to serve, remove from freezer and let sit for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping. Serve with colorful sprinkles or cotton candy pieces for extra fun if desired.

Notes

  • Ensure the heavy cream is very cold for best whipping results.
  • Do not overmix when folding the condensed milk into the whipped cream to keep the ice cream light and airy.
  • This recipe requires at least 6 hours of freezing time without an ice cream maker.
  • Optional food coloring adds a fun visual element but does not affect flavor.
  • Store leftover ice cream tightly covered in the freezer to prevent ice crystals.

Keywords: cotton candy ice cream, no churn ice cream, homemade ice cream, no ice cream maker, easy dessert, summer treat, whipped cream dessert