Since the 19th century, Candy Floss (also known as cotton candy) has been a popular treat. It's pink, fluffy and sweet...what's not to love?!
This sweet treat also tastes of nostalgia for a lot of us, the memories of going to fairs, carnivals and amusement parks with the smell of freshly spun candy floss filling the air.
Candy floss is typically served on a stick, which makes it easy to eat on the go. You don't need utensils or plates, just grab your stick and enjoy. We even have candy floss tubs in a number of our sweet hampers!
What You Need to Make Your Own Candy Floss
Now, let's talk about how to make candy floss and the ingredients. Sugar is the main ingredient in candy floss, and you can use any type of granulated sugar you like. Some people prefer to use organic or unrefined sugar, while others use regular white sugar.
You can also add a flavour extract and food colouring to give your homemade candy floss a pop of colour. Just be sure to use food colouring that is safe for consumption.
Choosing a Candy Floss Machine
Next, let's talk about the candy floss machine. There are many different types of candy floss machines on the market, ranging from small countertop models to large commercial-grade machines.
If you're just making candy floss for personal use, a small countertop model will suffice. However, if you're planning to make candy floss for events or children's parties, you may want to invest in a larger machine!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Candy Floss
Before using your candy floss machine, be sure to read the instructions carefully. You'll need to preheat the machine before adding the sugar mixture. Once the machine is heated up, you can add the sugar mixture to the spinning head. Be careful not to add too much sugar at once, as this can cause the machine to clog. Instead, add the sugar mixture slowly and evenly.
Candy floss is made by heating up and liquefying sugar, spinning it through tiny holes. The spun sugar turns into thin threads, creating the candy. You can use a cone, stick or container to collect the candy floss as it's being spun - just slowly move the cone or stick around the spinning head to collect it evenly. Be sure to collect the candy floss in a clean, dry container.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Candy Floss
Tip #1: Use high-quality sugar. The quality of your sugar will affect the taste and texture of your candy floss. Be sure to use a high-quality granulated sugar for the best results.
Tip #2: Don't add too much food colouring. While adding food colouring can give your candy floss a fun and unique look, be careful not to add too much. Adding too much food colouring can make your candy floss sticky and difficult to handle.
Tip #3: Use a clean, dry container to collect your candy floss. Any moisture in your container can cause your candy floss to become sticky and clump together.
Tip #4: Experiment with flavours. You can add different flavours to your candy floss by using flavoured sugar or by adding extracts or oils to your sugar mixture. Some popular flavours include vanilla, strawberry, and mint.
Tip #5: Practice makes perfect. Making candy floss takes some practice, so don't be discouraged if your first few attempts don't turn out perfectly. With time and practice, you'll be spinning up perfect candy floss in no time.
Making candy floss at home is a fun and rewarding activity that everyone can enjoy. With these tips and tricks, you'll be able to create the perfect candy floss every time. So get your candy floss machine, sugar, and food colouring and start spinning up some delicious treats today!