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Cotton Candy Cheesecake

Cotton Candy Cheesecake

Cotton Candy Cheesecake is a whimsical and colorful dessert that combines the nostalgic sweetness of cotton candy with the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake. Perfect for celebrations or a playful sweet treat, this cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust and a fluffy, pastel-hued filling infused with cotton candy flavor. Easy to customize and visually stunning, it promises a magical and unforgettable flavor experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons melted butter

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whipped cream
  • 12 teaspoons cotton candy flavoring or 1/2 cup small cotton candy pieces
  • Food coloring (optional) – pastel pinks, blues, or purples

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter until sandy and wet. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling to allow the crust to set properly.
  2. Make the cream cheese filling: Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar, mixing until fully combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a silky texture. Stir in vanilla extract and cotton candy flavoring or gently fold in small cotton candy pieces for bursts of sweetness.
  3. Add color and lightness: Carefully fold in whipped cream to lighten the batter and create an airy texture. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to achieve pastel cotton candy-inspired hues.
  4. Bake and chill: Pour the filling over the chilled crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 45-50 minutes until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. Allow to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
  5. Garnish and serve: Decorate the chilled cheesecake with cotton candy fluff, colorful sprinkles, or edible glitter to enhance its whimsical appearance before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth batter free of lumps.
  • Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid cracking during baking.
  • Baking in a water bath helps maintain even heat and prevents drying or cracking.
  • Chill the cheesecake thoroughly to achieve a creamy and firm texture.
  • Add cotton candy flavor or pieces last to retain the delicate airy sweetness and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cotton Candy Cheesecake, colorful cheesecake, whimsical dessert, creamy cheesecake, cotton candy flavor, party dessert, pastel cheesecake