Cotton Candy Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Cotton Candy Cookies are a fun and whimsical treat that captures the sweet, airy flavor of your favorite carnival snack. These soft cookies are perfect for a playful dessert or a unique twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 2: Add the cotton candy flavoring to the butter and sugar mixture and mix well to combine.
- Step 3: Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Step 4: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Step 5: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Step 6: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- For extra cotton candy flavor, add a pinch of colored sugar on top before baking.
- Substitute the cotton candy flavoring with vanilla extract for a classic taste.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
Storage
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm gently in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore softness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use cotton candy topping instead of flavoring?
Cotton candy topping will melt and lose texture in baking, so it’s best to use cotton candy flavoring for lasting taste.
How do I make sure my cookies stay soft?
Don’t overbake and consider adding a little extra butter or a teaspoon of cornstarch to keep them tender and soft.
PrintCotton Candy Cookies Recipe
Cotton Candy Cookies are soft, sweet treats infused with the delightful and nostalgic flavor of cotton candy. Perfect for those who love a whimsical twist on classic sugar cookies, these easy-to-make cookies offer a light, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a fun carnival-inspired flavor that will enchant both kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour, mixing continuously until fully combined. Finally, add the cotton candy flavoring and mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavor throughout the dough.
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them evenly spaced on an ungreased baking sheet, allowing room for spreading.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden and the centers remain soft to the touch. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your cotton candy cookies once cooled.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Do not overbake to maintain the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Use cotton candy flavoring extract for authentic taste; avoid artificial substitutes for best results.
- If desired, dip cooled cookies in melted white chocolate for an extra treat.
Keywords: Cotton Candy Cookies, Soft Cookies, Cotton Candy Flavor, Sweet Treats, Easy Baking

