If you’re craving a dessert that feels playful, nostalgic, and totally joyful, these fudge squares deliver all the fun. With fluffy marshmallows, cheerful sprinkles, and a cotton-candy–sweet swirl, this no-bake treat brings carnival vibes to your kitchen—perfect for celebrations, candy lovers, or anytime you want something irresistibly cute.
Cotton Candy Marshmallow Sprinkle Fudge
Equipment
- saucepan
- heatproof spatula or wooden spoon
- Large mixing bowl
- electric hand mixer or whisk
- measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- knife
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 12 oz white chocolate chips
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–1½ tsp cotton candy extract very strong—start small
- Pink and blue gel food coloring optional, for swirl
Mix-Ins & Topping
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ¼ cup pastel sprinkles jimmies or nonpareils
- Optional: edible glitter or shimmer dust
Instructions
Prep the pan
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
Melt the chocolate
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt white chocolate chips and butter, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat.
Make the cheesecake fudge
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Mix in melted chocolate, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cotton candy extract until creamy.
Color & swirl (optional)
- Divide batter in half. Tint one pink and one blue. Dollop into the pan and gently swirl.
Add mix-ins
- Fold marshmallows into the top layer only (to keep them fluffy). Smooth gently.
Decorate
- Sprinkle with pastel sprinkles and a light dusting of edible glitter.
Chill & slice
- Refrigerate 2–3 hours until firm. Slice into squares.
Notes
- Cotton candy extract strength: This extract is very potent. Start with a small amount, taste, and add more gradually to avoid an overpowering flavor.
- Cream cheese softness: Fully soften the cream cheese before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free fudge.
- White chocolate care: Melt the chocolate slowly over low heat and stir constantly to prevent scorching or graininess.
- Color control: Use gel food coloring (not liquid) to keep the fudge thick and pastel-bright.
- Marshmallow texture: Fold marshmallows in at the very end so they stay fluffy and don’t melt into the fudge.
- Sprinkle choice: Jimmies hold their color best; nonpareils may bleed slightly but add a cute speckled look.
- Chill fully: Allow the fudge to chill completely for clean slices and the best texture.
- Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months (sprinkles may soften after thawing).
💡 Tips & Variations
- Flavor control: Cotton candy extract varies by brand—add gradually and taste.
- Marshmallow tip: Fold marshmallows in at the end so they don’t melt.
- Extra fun: Add cotton-candy–flavored popping candy after slicing as a garnish.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze up to 2 months (sprinkles may soften slightly).
❓ FAQ – Cotton Candy Marshmallow Sprinkle Fudge
Can I make this fudge without food coloring?
Yes! The fudge will still taste the same, just without the pastel swirl.
Do the marshmallows melt in the fudge?
No, as long as they’re folded in at the end and the mixture isn’t hot, they’ll stay soft and fluffy.
What type of cotton candy extract should I use?
Any baking-grade cotton candy extract works well. Flavor intensity varies by brand, so always add gradually.
Is this fudge kid-friendly?
Yes! The sweet flavor and fun colors make it especially popular with kids.
Can I cut this into bite-size pieces?
Absolutely. Small cubes are great for party platters and dessert boards.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes, but keep them light—mini white chocolate chips or extra sprinkles work best without affecting texture.
Why are my sprinkles bleeding color?
Some nonpareils bleed when chilled. Jimmies hold their color better if you want a cleaner look.
🍬 More Fudge & Cheesecake-Style Treats
- Dive into the whimsical Bubblegum Cheesecake Fudge — fun, pastel, and ultra sweet!
- Bright and tangy swirls await in Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Fudge.
- Go tropical with Guava Cheesecake Fudge for a fruity, creamy twist.
Indulge your sweet tooth with these dreamy, dessert-ready fudge favorites! 💖🍭✨



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