Ingredients

For the Milkshake

  • 2 cups vanilla ice cream (about 4 scoops)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup cotton candy (pink and blue, divided for flavor and garnish)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp cotton candy syrup (store-bought or homemade, see below)
  • Pink and blue food coloring (optional, for vibrant color)
  • Whipped cream (for topping)
  • Sprinkles (rainbow or pastel, for garnish)
  • Cotton candy (additional for garnish)

For Homemade Cotton Candy Syrup (Optional)

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cotton candy flavoring (available online or at specialty baking stores)
  • Pinch of pink or blue food coloring (optional)

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Small saucepan (if making homemade syrup)
  • Tall glasses
  • Straws
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Cotton Candy Syrup (If Making Homemade)

  1. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water over medium heat.
  2. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, then bring to a gentle boil.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 tsp cotton candy flavoring and a pinch of food coloring (if using).
  4. Let the syrup cool to room temperature before using. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Step 2: Blend the Milkshake

  1. In a blender, add 2 cups vanilla ice cream, 1 cup whole milk, 1/4 cup cotton candy (crumbled), 2 tbsp cotton candy syrup, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
  2. Blend on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy, about 30–45 seconds. If the shake is too thick, add a splash more milk; if too thin, add another scoop of ice cream.
  3. (Optional) Add 1–2 drops of pink or blue food coloring for a vibrant cotton candy look and blend briefly to combine.

Step 3: Assemble the Shake

  1. Pour the milkshake into tall, chilled glasses, filling them about 3/4 full.
  2. Top each shake with a generous swirl of whipped cream.
  3. Sprinkle rainbow or pastel sprinkles over the whipped cream.
  4. Garnish with a small fluff of cotton candy (use the remaining 1/4 cup, divided) on top or on the side of the glass for a playful effect.
  5. Insert a straw and serve immediately.

Tips

  • Cotton Candy Care: Cotton candy dissolves quickly in liquid, so add the garnish just before serving to maintain its fluffy texture.
  • Flavor Boost: For extra cotton candy flavor, rim the glass with cotton candy syrup and dip in sprinkles before pouring the shake.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free ice cream and milk alternatives (like almond or oat milk) for a vegan version.
  • Serving Size: This recipe makes 2 medium shakes or 1 large shake.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

  • Calories: 450–500 kcal
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Sugar: 50g

Note: Nutritional values vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Enjoy your Cotton Candy Dream Shake, a sweet escape to a carnival-inspired delight!