Print

Cotton Candy Cookies

These cotton candy cookies are a whimsical twist on the classic sugar cookie β€” soft, chewy, and bursting with colorful charm. Perfect for birthday parties, baby showers, or any festive occasion, they feature pastel-colored sprinkles and a sweet cotton candy flavor that brings back all the nostalgia of a summer fair.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Base:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

πŸ§‚ Dry Mix:

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

🍬 Cotton Candy Magic:

1 cup cotton candy flavored chips (or use colorful pastel sprinkles)

A few drops of pink and/or blue food coloring (optional, for marbling effect)

Optional: 1 teaspoon cotton candy extract (for stronger flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the oven & pans

Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Cream the butter and sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup softened butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 cup brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes using a mixer).

Step 3: Add eggs and vanilla

Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Then add 1 tsp vanilla extract and optional cotton candy extract, mixing until smooth.

Step 4: Mix dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1 tsp salt.

Step 5: Combine wet and dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined β€” do not overmix.

Step 6: Add color and chips

Gently fold in 1 cup cotton candy chips or sprinkles. If desired, divide the dough and swirl in pink and blue food coloring for a pastel marble look.

Step 7: Shape and bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them about 2 inches apart on your baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are golden and centers look slightly underbaked.

Step 8: Cool and serve

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Chill the dough for 30–60 minutes if your kitchen is warm to prevent spreading.

  • Don’t overbake β€” they will continue baking slightly after being removed from the oven.

  • Use cotton candy extract for a stronger flavor if flavored chips are unavailable.

  • These cookies freeze well both as dough or fully baked.