By Shreya Sarpal
September 5, 2025
Cotton candy is a fluffy, melt-in-the-mouth treat made by melting sugar and spinning it into fine threads. Traditionally made with a machine, but you can also make a small batch at home with some care.
1 cup sugar ¼ cup corn syrup ¼ cup water A few drops of food colouring (pink, blue, or your choice) ½ tsp vanilla extract
Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a heavy-bottomed pan, then heat on a medium flame without stirring until the sugar has fully melted.
Once the syrup reaches approximately 160°C (hard crack stage), remove it from the heat, add food colouring, and vanilla.
Dip a whisk or fork in the syrup, then flick it back and forth quickly over parchment paper or a large bowl to form thin sugar threads.
Gather the spun sugar with a stick, twirling to form a fluffy ball.
Cotton candy melts quickly, so enjoy it fresh!