Description
Crispy Cotton Candy Cheesecake Bombs combine the whimsical sweetness of cotton candy with the creamy richness of cheesecake, encased in a crispy fried dough shell and coated in cotton candy-flavored candy melts. This dessert offers a nostalgic yet innovative flavor and texture contrast that is perfect for parties, celebrations, or a special indulgence at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Filling
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cotton candy, crushed
Dough
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
Coating and Frying
- 2 cups cotton candy-flavored candy melts
- Oil for frying
- Additional crushed cotton candy for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and crushed cotton candy until smooth and well combined.
- Chill the Filling: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
- Make the Dough: In another bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add Eggs: Gradually add the eggs to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough begins to form.
- Divide the Dough: Remove the chilled filling from the refrigerator. Take a small amount of dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a spoonful of the cheesecake filling in the center and wrap the dough around it, sealing it well.
- Shape the Bombs: Roll the filled dough into a ball shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all the filling is used.
- Chill Again: Place the assembled cheesecake bombs in the freezer for about 15 minutes to firm up.
- Heat Oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Bombs: Carefully drop the cheesecake bombs into the hot oil, frying in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Coat with Candy Melts: Melt the cotton candy-flavored candy melts according to package instructions. Dip each cheesecake bomb into the melted candy, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Garnish: Immediately sprinkle additional crushed cotton candy on top before the coating sets.
- Serve: Allow the candy coating to harden for a few minutes before enjoying your crispy creations.
Notes
- Use fresh cotton candy for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with toppings like sprinkles or edible glitter for a festive look.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for a perfect crispy shell; too hot will burn, too cold will make them greasy.
- Serve the bombs warm for the best contrast between crispy exterior and creamy filling.
- These can be baked at 350°F for 15-20 minutes as a healthier alternative but will lack the same crunch.
- Freeze uncoated bombs for up to 2 months; fry directly from frozen adding extra cooking time.
- Seal dough edges well to prevent filling leakage during frying.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cotton Candy, Cheesecake, Fried Dessert, Crispy, Sweet Snack, Party Dessert, Carnival Inspired
