Learn to make cotton candy popcorn with this easy, fun recipe! Perfect for movie nights and parties—sweet, colorful, and totally irresistible.

Ever wondered what happens when your favorite fluffy fair treat collides with the classic movie snack? Well, wonder no more!

Today, we’re diving into a fun and funky recipe that mixes the airy sweetness of cotton candy with the satisfying crunch of popcorn. We’re making cotton candy popcorn, and it’s going to be epic.

Let’s be honest, regular popcorn is great and all, but sometimes, you just need to shake things up a bit—add a little sugar, a splash of color, and a whole lot of fun.

This isn’t just any snack; it’s a statement. Perfect for parties, ideal for Instagram, and just the thing to brighten up a dull evening at home. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up.

(PS – don’t forget to try our cotton candy cookies, dessert shots, and rice krispie treats!)

Not only does it taste like your favorite cotton candy, but it also looks like something straight out of a dream. With a few simple ingredients like popcorn, sugar, butter, corn syrup, and some actual cotton candy, you’re not just serving a snack—you’re creating an experience.

So, why settle for boring when you can have brilliant? Get ready to impress your friends, delight your family, and most importantly, treat yourself. Follow along as we combine the simple pleasure of popcorn with the whimsical joy of cotton candy.

Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to pop not just for the fun of making it, but for the sheer joy of eating it too. Let’s turn your kitchen into the coolest snack bar in town!

And before you get started, don’t forget to check out the following tips for the best popcorn:

Choose the Right Kernels

Opt for high-quality popcorn kernels. There are several types like yellow, white, and even more exotic ones like blue or red. Each has its own unique flavor and texture.

Get the Oil Right

Use a good oil with a high smoke point. Coconut oil, canola oil, and peanut oil are great choices. Coconut oil adds a nice sweetness to the popcorn.

Proper Pot and Lid

Use a heavy-bottom pot to distribute heat evenly and prevent burning. Make sure the lid is slightly ajar to let steam escape, which gives you crisper popcorn.

Heat Control

Start with a couple of test kernels in the oil over medium heat. Once they pop, you know the oil is hot enough to add the rest of your popcorn kernels. Shake the pan gently once the kernels start popping to keep them from burning.

Try Different Methods

Besides the stovetop, you can use an air popper, microwave, or even make it in an instant pot. Each method can affect the texture and flavor of your popcorn.

Are you ready to try this recipe? Here’s what you’re going to need.

Ingredients

1/2 cup popcorn kernels
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cotton candy flavoring or extract (as per taste)
Pink and blue food coloring (optional)
Cotton candy for garnish (optional)

Keep the popcorn in an airtight container and it will last for quite awhile – I would say up to two weeks.

Get the printable recipe card below:

Cotton Candy Popcorn

Discover how to whip up cotton candy popcorn with our simple recipe! A fun, colorful treat that's perfect for any gathering.

No ratings yet

Save Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 10

Total Time: 25

Servings: cups

Ingredients

1/2 cup popcorn kernels
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
cotton candy flavoring as per taste
Food coloring Pink and blue, optional
Cotton candy for garnish, optional

Instructions

Pop the popcorn kernels using your preferred method (air popper, stovetop, or microwave). Ensure there are no unpopped kernels. Place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil.
Once boiling, stop stirring and let the mixture cook for 4-5 minutes. It should reach a temperature of 235°F (soft-ball stage). If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can test a small amount in cold water – it should form a soft ball.
Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the baking soda, vanilla extract, cotton candy flavoring, and food coloring (if using). Mix until well combined.
Pour the candy coating over the popped popcorn. Use a spatula to gently fold and coat the popcorn evenly with the candy mixture.
Allow the coated popcorn to cool for a few minutes, making sure it's cool enough to handle. Break the popcorn into clusters or individual pieces.
If desired, garnish with cotton candy for an extra touch of sweetness and a pop of color.