If you’re looking for a fun, colorful treat that tastes like pure happiness, Cotton Candy Popcorn is the answer! Fluffy, sweet, and bursting with whimsical flavor, this recipe brings together the light crunch of popcorn and the sugary magic of cotton candy in one irresistibly festive snack.

Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just when you want something a little extra special, this popcorn is easy to make and totally addictive. One handful and you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Cotton Candy Popcorn

Playful Flavor: That signature cotton candy taste in every bite.
Vibrant & Colorful: A fun pop of pastel pink, blue, or any color you love.
Great for Celebrations: Perfect for kids’ parties, baby showers, or carnival-themed events.
No Fancy Tools Needed: Just your stovetop or microwave and a big bowl.

Ingredients in Cotton Candy Popcorn

Here’s what you’ll need to bring the carnival to your kitchen:

10 cups popped popcorn (air-popped or plain – no butter or salt)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup water
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring (LorAnn oils or similar)
Food coloring (pink and blue are classic, but any color works)
Optional: Sprinkles for an extra fun touch

Instructions

Step 1 – Prep the Popcorn:
Pop your popcorn and place it in a large mixing bowl. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2 – Make the Syrup:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches 235°F–240°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer about 4–5 minutes.

Step 3 – Add Flavor & Color:
Remove the syrup from heat. Stir in the cotton candy flavoring and your desired food coloring.

Step 4 – Coat the Popcorn:
Immediately pour the syrup over the popcorn. Use a spatula to gently toss and coat the popcorn evenly. Work quickly the syrup sets fast!

Step 5 – Cool & Serve:
Spread the coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet and let it cool completely. Once cooled, break apart any clumps and serve or store.

Notes

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Cool Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: About 10 cups

How to Serve It

• In cute paper cones for parties
• Packaged in clear treat bags for favors
• As a pastel centerpiece for baby showers or birthdays
• Mixed with mini marshmallows or candies for a snack mix

Tips for the Best Cotton Candy Popcorn

• Flavor Strength: Start with ½ tsp of flavoring cotton candy is potent!
• Color Control: Gel food coloring gives brighter results without watering down your syrup.
• Crunchy Finish: For crunchier popcorn, bake it at 250°F for 20–30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
• Stickiness Tip: Lightly grease your spatula to avoid sticky hands while tossing the syrup.

FAQs

1. Can I use microwave popcorn?
Yes but choose a plain or lightly salted kind. Avoid buttery versions.

2. Where can I find cotton candy flavoring?
Look in the baking aisle of craft stores or online. Brands like LorAnn have great options.

3. How long does it last?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 5 days.

4. Can I make different colors?
Absolutely! Divide the syrup and make pink and blue batches for a cotton candy swirl.

5. Can I skip the corn syrup?
Corn syrup helps the coating stay smooth and glossy, but you can substitute with honey or golden syrup, though the texture may vary slightly.

Conclusion

Cotton Candy Popcorn is more than just a snack it’s a celebration in every bite! Whether you’re hosting a kids’ party or treating yourself to a sweet and nostalgic movie night, this colorful popcorn delivers fun, flavor, and that unmistakable cotton candy charm. Once you make a batch, you’ll be dreaming up excuses to make it again and again!

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