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Cotton Candy Cheesecake

Cotton Candy Cheesecake

Cotton Candy Cheesecake is a visually enchanting and delicious dessert that perfectly combines the creamy tanginess of classic cheesecake with the whimsical sweetness and pastel colors of cotton candy. This recipe is easy to make with simple ingredients, customizable flavors, and results in a smooth, creamy texture paired with a buttery, crunchy crust. Ideal for celebrations or everyday indulgence, it brings a joyful burst of flavor and fun with every bite.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 75 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 8-10 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Crust Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling Ingredients

  • 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring or essence
  • Food coloring (pastel pinks, blues, purples) as desired

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press firmly into the base of a springform pan. Chill the crust while preparing the filling to help it set perfectly.
  2. Make the cheesecake batter: Beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until silky smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition to maintain a smooth texture. Stir in vanilla extract, heavy cream, cotton candy flavoring, and your chosen food coloring to create the pastel hues that define the cotton candy appearance.
  3. Combine and swirl: Pour half of the batter into the crust. If desired, prepare additional batter tinted with different food coloring and dollop it on top to create a swirled, marble effect. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the colors for a whimsical pattern.
  4. Bake with care: Bake the cheesecake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly to ensure a creamy texture.
  5. Cool and chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let it firm up and for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a lump-free batter.
  • Mix just until combined to avoid an overly dense texture or cracks.
  • Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to maintain even heat and reduce the risk of cracking.
  • Refrigerate fully to achieve the best sliceability and flavor development.
  • Select a high-quality cotton candy essence for authentic flavor.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/10 of cheesecake)
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: cotton candy cheesecake, pastel cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, whimsical dessert, cotton candy flavor dessert, celebration dessert, easy cheesecake