Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cotton candy, crushed
- Pink food coloring (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the crushed cotton candy and pink food coloring (if using) until evenly distributed.
7. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 24 cookies
Nutritional information:
Calories: 190
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 100mg
Sugar: 12g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the added salt to 1/4 tsp.
- Granulated sugar can be replaced with brown sugar for a chewier texture.
- Gluten-free flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Variations:
- Use different colors of cotton candy to create a rainbow effect.
- Add sprinkles or edible glitter for extra sparkle.
- Swap out the cotton candy for other candy pieces, such as M&Ms or chocolate chips.
Tips and tricks:
- Crush the cotton candy into small pieces to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant color.
Storage instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the cookies, place them in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 5 minutes or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the cookies on a platter with a cotton candy centerpiece for a fun and whimsical display.
Garnishes:
Top the cookies with a small piece of cotton candy or a sprinkle of edible glitter for a festive touch.
Pairings:
Serve the cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a classic treat.
Suggested side dishes:
These cookies are perfect on their own, but can also be served with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cookies are spreading too much, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- If the cookies are too dry, try adding an extra tablespoon of butter or a splash of milk to the dough.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to properly store the cookies to prevent spoilage.
- Wash your hands and all surfaces before and after handling raw dough.
Food history:
Cotton candy was first invented in the late 19th century and quickly became a popular carnival treat. It is made by heating and spinning sugar, creating thin strands that are then collected and formed into fluffy clouds of candy.
Flavor profiles:
These cookies have a sweet and buttery flavor with a hint of cotton candy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these cookies at a birthday party or other festive occasion for a fun and colorful treat.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A