Cotton Candy Ice Cream
Indulge in the nostalgic delight of Cotton Candy Ice Cream, a whimsical homemade dessert that captures the joy of summer carnivals with its vibrant colors and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon cotton candy flavoring
- 1/2 cup half-and-half
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
Optional Color and Flavor Additions
- 1 teaspoon strawberry or raspberry extract Optional for a fruity flavor.
- Pink food coloring For color, optional.
- Blue food coloring For color, optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, cotton candy flavoring, and half-and-half until fully smooth.
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream until you get a smooth, airy ice cream base.
Coloring
- For a colored version, divide the mixture evenly into two bowls. Tint one bowl blue and the other pink with a few drops of food coloring, then fold gently until the color is evenly mixed.
Freezing
- Spoon the two colored mixtures into an 8 x 8-inch pan or a similar freezer-safe container.
- Lightly swirl the colors together with a spatula, without blending them too much, so the pink and blue remain visible. Spread the mixture evenly in the pan.
- Freeze uncovered for 3 to 5 hours, or until firm. For best texture, you can also leave it overnight.
- Cover leftovers with plastic wrap or foil and keep frozen for up to 3 weeks.
Notes
For best results, ensure the cream is whipped to stiff peaks. You can add mix-ins like crushed candy or chocolate chunks for an exciting texture contrast.