Cotton Candy Cake: A Whimsical, Sweet Treat!

If you’re looking for a fun, colorful, and delicious dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, parties, or just because, this Cotton Candy Cake is the answer! With layers of fluffy vanilla cake tinted pink and blue, and a dreamy cotton candy-flavored buttercream frosting, this cake is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Let’s bake up some magic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Whimsical & Fun: Perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or themed parties.
• Soft & Fluffy: The cake is light and moist, with a hint of cotton candy flavor.
• Customizable: Adjust the colors and flavors to suit your theme.
• Impressive Yet Easy: Looks stunning but is simple to make.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large egg whites
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• Pink and blue food coloring (gel recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon cotton candy extract (optional)

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cotton candy extract (optional)
• Pink food coloring

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

2. Make the Cake Batter

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the egg whites, vanilla extract, and cotton candy extract (if using), and mix until combined.
• Alternately add the flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.

3. Color the Batter

• Divide the batter evenly into three bowls.
• Tint one portion pink, one blue, and leave one plain.
• Pour each colored batter into the prepared cake pans.

4. Bake

• Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Make the Frosting

• In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cotton candy extract (if using). Beat until light and fluffy.
• Tint the frosting light pink with food coloring.

6. Assemble the Cake

• Place the plain cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
• Add the pink cake layer, followed by more frosting.
• Top with the blue cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
• Decorate with extra blue accents or sprinkles if desired.

7. Chill & Serve

• Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to set the frosting and make slicing easier.
• Slice and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Cotton Candy Cake

• Use Gel Food Coloring: It provides vibrant colors without thinning the batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined.
• Add Crushed Cotton Candy: Sprinkle crushed cotton candy between the layers for extra flavor and texture.
• Make It Ahead: Bake the cakes and prepare the frosting a day in advance. Assemble the cake the day of serving.

Serving Ideas

• For Parties: Serve as a centerpiece dessert at birthdays, baby showers, or themed parties.
• With Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or cotton candy ice cream.
• As a Gift: Package individual slices in cute boxes for a sweet treat to share.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! Cake flour will make the cake even lighter and fluffier.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What if I don’t have cotton candy extract?
You can skip it or use a combination of vanilla and almond extract for a similar flavor.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap the unfrosted cake layers in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer

This Cotton Candy Cake is the ultimate whimsical dessert—soft, fluffy, and bursting with color and flavor. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for any celebration. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fun, easy, and delicious cake that’s sure to impress, this Cotton Candy Cake is the answer. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!

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