Copycat Baskin Robbins Cotton Candy Ice Cream Recipe

From the moment you take your first bite, you’ll be transported back to carefree days of fun and laughter, with a modern twist that will keep you coming back for more. Join me as we embark on a delightful journey through the world of Baskin Robbins Cotton Candy ice cream, where every scoop is a symphony of nostalgia and sweetness.

Table of Contents

What Is Baskin Robbins Cotton Candy Ice Cream?

Baskin Robbins Cotton Candy Ice Cream is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the beloved carnival classic in every scoop. This colorful and creamy ice cream flavor offers a burst of sweetness that will surely bring back fond memories of enjoying fluffy cotton candy.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup whole milk
¾ cup granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks (for a richer custard base).

Flavor And Color Additions:

1½ tsp cotton candy flavoring or cotton candy extract (available online or at specialty baking stores)
Food coloring (optional)
Pink food coloring for one half of the mixture
Blue food coloring for the other half.

Optional Toppings:

Cotton candy pieces for garnish
Rainbow sprinkles.

Instructions:

Heat the Dairy:

In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy whipping cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely (do not let it boil).
Temper the Eggs:
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add about ½ cup of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. This helps gradually raise the temperature of the eggs to prevent curdling.
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture.
Cook the Base:
Simmer the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5–8 minutes). Be careful not to let it boil.
Cool the Base:
Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a clean bowl. Let it cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight). This ensures a smooth and creamy texture when churned.

Add Cotton Candy Flavor And Colors:

Divide the chilled ice cream base into two equal portions.
Add cotton candy flavoring (¾ tsp per portion) to each half. Stir until fully combined.
Use food coloring to dye one portion pink and the other portion blue. Aim for vibrant pastel shades that mimic the iconic cotton candy look.

Churn Each Portion Separately:

Use an ice cream maker to churn the pink ice cream mixture first. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 15–20 minutes). Once churned, place it in a freezer-safe container.
Repeat the process with the blue ice cream mixture.

Layer the Colors: In a container, alternate scoops of the pink and blue ice cream to create a swirling cotton-candy-like appearance.
Freeze: Cover the container tightly and freeze the ice cream for at least 4–6 hours to firm up before serving.

Tips For Perfect Cotton Candy Ice Cream:

Choose High-Quality Extracts: Cotton candy flavoring is essential for achieving the authentic taste. Look for specialty extracts from reputable brands for the best results.
Avoid Overmixing Colors: When layering or swirling the pink and blue ice cream, avoid excessive mixing to maintain the vibrant two-tone aesthetic.
Use a Creamy Base: A rich custard base (made with egg yolks) produces a velvety texture similar to Baskin Robbins’ signature creaminess. Alternatively, you can use condensed milk for a no-churn version.
Cotton Candy Garnish: To wow your guests, add small tufts of real cotton candy on top of each serving just before serving. It makes for a dazzling presentation.
Experiment with Toppings: Consider add-ons such as mini marshmallows, rainbow sprinkles, or a drizzle of white chocolate for an even more indulgent dessert.

What To Serve With

Freshly Made Waffle Cones: Enhance the experience of enjoying Baskin Robbins Cotton Candy ice cream by serving it in a crispy, golden-brown waffle cone. The combination of the creamy ice cream and the crunchy cone adds a delightful texture contrast.
Colorful Sprinkles and Rainbow Sprinkles: Add a playful touch to your serving of cotton candy ice cream by sprinkling it with vibrant and whimsical sprinkles. The combination of colors and textures will make your dessert visually appealing and even more enjoyable.
Whipped Cream and Maraschino Cherries: Elevate the sweetness of the cotton candy ice cream by topping it with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream and a juicy maraschino cherry. The creamy and fruity elements will complement the cotton candy flavor perfectly.
Cotton Candy Garnish: Stay true to the cotton candy theme by garnishing your ice cream with a small tuft of cotton candy on top. This whimsical touch will not only enhance the presentation but also provide an extra burst of cotton candy flavor and nostalgia.
Sugar Cookies or Wafers: For a fun twist, serve Baskin Robbins Cotton Candy ice cream with sugar cookies or wafer cookies on the side. The combination of the rich, creamy ice cream and the crisp cookies creates a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Caramel or Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For those who enjoy a touch of decadence, drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the scoops of cotton candy ice cream. The combination of sweet sauces and the cotton candy flavor creates a luscious and indulgent dessert experience.
Fresh Berries or Fruit Compote: Balance the sweetness of the cotton candy ice cream by serving it with a side of fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The juicy, tart flavors of the fruit provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy ice cream.

Health Benefits

Calcium Content: Dairy-based ice cream such as Baskin Robbins Cotton Candy flavor provides a source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Mood-Boosting Properties: Indulging in a small amount of cotton candy ice cream may serve as a mood-enhancer and a source of comfort, potentially contributing to mental well-being.
Moderate Caloric Intake: Enjoying occasional indulgences such as cotton candy ice cream as part of a balanced diet can be a part of a healthy approach to eating, as long as it is consumed in moderation.

Final Thoughts

Baskin Robbins Cotton Candy ice cream is a whimsical and nostalgic treat that captures the essence of carefree childhood days spent at the carnival or circus. With its vibrant pink hue and sweet, sugary flavor reminiscent of classic cotton candy, this ice cream flavor is a true delight for the senses.

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