Description
This No-Churn Cotton Candy Ice Cream is a delightfully sweet and creamy frozen treat reminiscent of classic carnival cotton candy. Made without an ice cream maker, it combines very cold heavy whipping cream, sweetened condensed milk, and cotton candy flavoring to create a fluffy, pastel-colored dessert perfect for summer or any occasion craving nostalgic sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups very cold heavy whipping cream
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk, cold
- 2 teaspoons cotton candy flavoring
- Food coloring: pink and blue, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a large mixing bowl, pour the very cold heavy whipping cream. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This will take about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine Flavoring and Condensed Milk: In a separate bowl, gently stir the sweetened condensed milk with the cotton candy flavoring until fully incorporated. If desired, divide the condensed milk mixture into two parts and add a few drops of pink food coloring to one portion and blue to the other to create a whimsical cotton candy look.
- Fold Mixtures Together: Slowly fold the sweetened condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. Do this gently to maintain the airiness of the whipped cream. If using colored portions, fold each color separately or swirl them together to create a marbled effect.
- Transfer to a Container: Spoon the ice cream mixture into a loaf pan or an airtight container. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.
- Freeze: Cover the container tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight until firm.
- Serve: When ready to serve, remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping. Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy your homemade no-churn cotton candy ice cream!
Notes
- Do not overbeat the cream; stiff peaks should hold their shape but remain smooth and fluffy.
- Use very cold heavy cream and chilled sweetened condensed milk for best texture.
- Food coloring is optional but adds a fun carnival-style look to the ice cream.
- Store leftover ice cream covered in the freezer for up to 1 week.
- For an adult twist, add a teaspoon of vodka or liqueur to prevent ice crystals (optional).
Keywords: no churn ice cream, cotton candy ice cream, homemade ice cream, cotton candy flavor, easy frozen dessert, no ice cream maker