Cotton Candy Cheesecake

This Cotton Candy Cheesecake is a whimsical, pastel-colored dessert that brings the nostalgic flavor of cotton candy to a creamy, rich cheesecake. Perfect for birthday parties, baby showers, or any celebration!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tbsp (70g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz each) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cotton candy flavoring (available at specialty stores or online)
• 1 tsp pink food coloring (optional)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 3 large eggs

For the Topping:

• Whipped cream
• Cotton candy (store-bought or homemade)
• Sprinkles or edible glitter
• Mini marshmallows (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add vanilla extract, cotton candy flavoring, and food coloring, and beat until well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition to avoid overmixing.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
3. After cooling, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 6 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 4: Decorate

1. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter.
2. Top with whipped cream, a small amount of cotton candy, and colorful sprinkles for a fun, festive look.
3. Optionally, add mini marshmallows or edible glitter for extra sparkle!

Tips for Success:

• Cotton Candy Flavoring: If you can’t find cotton candy flavoring, you can substitute with a small amount of strawberry or vanilla extract for a sweet, nostalgic flavor.
• Preventing Cracks: For a smoother finish, bake the cheesecake in a water bath to help maintain even moisture and prevent cracks.
• For a Lighter Texture: Use a combination of cream cheese and mascarpone cheese for a more airy, light texture.

This fun and indulgent Cotton Candy Cheesecake will wow your guests with its beautiful colors and sweet flavor!  Would you like suggestions for mini versions or a no-bake alternative?