Name: Cotton Candy Cake Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp baking powder; 3/4 tsp salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 1 1/2 tsp cotton candy flavoring; 1 cup whole milk, room temperature; Color gels: fuchsia, sky blue, violet; 5 large egg whites (for buttercream); 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar (for buttercream); 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, cubed and room temperature (for buttercream); 1 tsp cotton candy flavoring (for buttercream); Cotton candy for garnish

Why You’ll Love Cotton Candy Cake Recipe

This Cotton Candy Cake is more than just beautiful—it’s deliciously unique. With a soft, fluffy crumb and the unmistakable flavor of cotton candy, it’s a nostalgic treat that appeals to both kids and adults. The marbled layers make each slice a work of art, while the cotton candy buttercream adds a sweet, airy finish. It’s perfect for those looking to impress with both flavor and presentation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cotton Candy Cake:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 1/2 tsp cotton candy flavoring
1 cup whole milk, room temperature
Color gels: fuchsia, sky blue, violet

Cotton Candy Buttercream:
4 large egg whites
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, cubed and room temperature
1 tsp cotton candy flavoring

Directions

Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour three 6-inch cake pans, and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the butter and sugar on medium-high until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Add Eggs and Flavoring:
Lower the speed and add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the cotton candy flavoring.

Combine Dry and Wet:
Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until incorporated.

Color and Bake:
Divide batter into four equal portions. Leave one plain and color the others with fuchsia, sky blue, and violet. Spoon randomly into prepared pans and swirl gently with a skewer.
Bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Cool for 10 minutes in pans, then turn out onto racks to cool completely.

Prepare Meringue:
Combine egg whites and sugar in a mixing bowl. Place over a double boiler and whisk constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot (about 3 minutes or 160°F).

Whip to Stiff Peaks:
Transfer the bowl to your mixer and whip on medium-high until stiff peaks form and the meringue is cool.

Add Butter and Flavoring:
Switch to the paddle attachment. Add butter slowly, mixing until smooth. Add cotton candy flavoring and whip until fluffy.

Assemble the Cake:
Place the first layer on your cake stand and spread 2/3 cup of buttercream on top. Repeat with the remaining layers. Apply a crumb coat and chill for 20 minutes.
Frost the entire cake smoothly, then apply dabs of tinted buttercream in fuchsia, sky blue, and violet using a spatula. Blend with a bench scraper.
Add a white pearl buttercream border on the top and bottom.
Add cotton candy on top just before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12 slices
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Assembly & Decorating Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

Different Flavors: Swap out cotton candy flavoring for vanilla, strawberry, or bubblegum for a fun twist.
Bigger Cake: Double the recipe and bake in three 8-inch pans for larger gatherings.
Cupcakes: Use the same batter for cotton candy cupcakes; bake for 18–20 minutes.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free milk, plant-based butter, and egg substitutes like aquafaba.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Drip Cake Style: Add a colored white chocolate drip for a dramatic effect.
Sprinkle Surprise: Add sprinkles between layers or in the center for a fun surprise.
Pastel Theme: Use pastel gels for a softer, more dreamy look.
Unicorn Cake: Add a horn and ears to turn it into a unicorn-themed cake.
Cotton Candy Toppers: Use sticks of cotton candy or sugar lollipops for decoration.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Do not store cotton candy on the cake, as it will dissolve—add it just before serving.
To freeze, wrap cake slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs

What does cotton candy cake taste like?

Cotton candy cake has a sweet, light flavor similar to the spun sugar treat, with a soft vanilla-like base and a hint of fruity sweetness.

Can I use store-bought frosting instead?

Yes, but homemade cotton candy buttercream adds the unique flavor and texture that really elevates this cake.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely. You can bake the layers up to two days in advance and store them wrapped tightly at room temperature or refrigerated.

How do I prevent the cotton candy from melting?

Add the cotton candy garnish just before serving. Exposure to moisture causes it to dissolve quickly.

Can I make this cake without a stand mixer?

Yes, but it’s easier with one. You’ll need electric beaters to properly whip the meringue-based buttercream.

Is cotton candy flavoring easy to find?

It can be found in baking supply stores or online. Look for concentrated flavor oils or extracts.

Can I use food coloring instead of gel?

Gel food coloring is best for vibrant colors without affecting the batter consistency. Liquid food coloring can be used in a pinch but may be less vivid.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, doubling works well if you want to make larger 8-inch cake layers.

How can I make the buttercream more stable?

Make sure your meringue is completely cool before adding butter, and avoid overly warm environments when decorating.

What’s the best way to get smooth sides on the cake?

Use a bench scraper and chill the cake briefly between frosting stages for a clean, professional look.

Conclusion

This Cotton Candy Cake is a magical, eye-catching dessert perfect for adding whimsy to any special occasion. With its fluffy marbled layers, nostalgic flavor, and vibrant presentation, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re baking for a party or just for fun, this recipe brings color, creativity, and sweetness to your table.