Mini Cotton Candy Cheesecake Puff Balls (Print Version)

Bite-sized creamy cheesecake centers wrapped in fluffy cotton candy for a whimsical sweet treat.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cheesecake Mixture

01 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
04 - 1/4 cup heavy cream

→ Outer Shell

05 - 3.5 oz cotton candy (any color/flavor)

→ Decoration (optional)

06 - Colored sprinkles or edible glitter

# How to Make It:

01 - Beat cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract in mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
02 - Add heavy cream and beat mixture until light and fluffy consistency achieved.
03 - Scoop 1 tablespoon portions of cheesecake mixture and roll into small balls. Arrange on parchment-lined baking tray.
04 - Freeze cheesecake balls for 15-20 minutes until firm enough to handle.
05 - Working individually, flatten small piece of cotton candy in palm. Place cheesecake ball in center and gently wrap cotton candy around it, pinching to seal. Roll lightly to form smooth puff balls.
06 - Sprinkle with colored sprinkles or edible glitter if desired.
07 - Serve immediately for optimal texture. Refrigerate until serving time if needed (cotton candy dissolves with prolonged moisture exposure).

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They vanish faster than you can say 'carnival dessert' at any gathering
  • The texture contrast between smooth cheesecake and airy cotton candy is pure magic
02 -
  • Cotton candy starts melting the moment it touches moisture, so work quickly and keep these covered until serving
  • The cheesecake centers must be thoroughly frozen or the cotton candy will collapse into a sticky mess
03 -
  • Place the cotton candy on a piece of wax paper while working to prevent it from sticking to your counter
  • A light mist of cooking spray on your hands helps when rolling the cheesecake centers