Description
Indulge in the whimsical charm of Cotton Candy Cheesecake, a delightful dessert that brings the fun of the carnival to your table. This creamy and colorful cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, rich filling infused with nostalgic cotton candy flavor. Topped with fluffy cotton candy and optional sprinkles, it’s a show-stopping treat perfect for any festive occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this cheesecake will be a hit at your next celebration!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs
Cotton candy flavoring or cotton candy syrup (optional, for flavor and color)
For Garnish:
Cotton candy for topping
Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes and cool completely.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Optionally, stir in cotton candy flavoring or syrup.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, top with cotton candy and optional sprinkles. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
To prevent cracking, bake the cheesecake in a water bath.
For best results, use softened cream cheese and mix thoroughly to avoid lumps.
Garnish just before serving to keep cotton candy fluffy and fresh.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 slices
- Calories: 450 kcal
Keywords: Cotton Candy Cheesecake, carnival cheesecake, creamy cheesecake recipe, colorful dessert, fun cheesecake recipe