Name: Homemade Bubblegum Cloud Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: White chocolate chips; Sweetened condensed milk; Butter; Bubblegum extract; Pink food coloring; Powdered sugar (optional for dusting)

Are you ready to try something delightfully fun and delicious? Our Homemade Bubblegum Cloud Fudge recipe is a unique twist on the classic fudge that will take your taste buds on a nostalgic journey to your childhood! The sweet, airy texture combined with a bold bubblegum flavor is sure to make this dessert the star of any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself. Follow this guide to make the perfect cloud-like fudge that’s easy to prepare, and stick around till the end for tips on serving, presentation ideas, and how to avoid common mistakes. Ready to make some sweet magic? Let’s dive in!

What is Bubblegum Cloud Fudge?

Bubblegum Cloud Fudge is a creamy, light, and melt-in-your-mouth treat infused with the whimsical flavor of bubblegum. What sets it apart from regular fudge is its airy texture, created by incorporating fluffy ingredients like marshmallow cream or whipped toppings. This fudge is not only fun to eat but also a playful treat that both kids and adults will love. The bright colors and cloud-like texture give it an extra special, almost dream-like quality, making it as fun to look at as it is to eat.

Ingredients List for Bubblegum Cloud Fudge:

To create this dreamy treat, you’ll need the following ingredients. Most of them are easy to find at your local grocery store, and some are even pantry staples. Here’s what you need:

2 cups of granulated sugar
½ cup of heavy cream
½ cup of unsalted butter
¼ teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon of bubblegum extract (you can adjust to taste)
1 ½ cups of white chocolate chips
1 jar (about 7 oz) of marshmallow cream (or use 2 cups of mini marshmallows)
Pink food coloring (or any color of your choice to match the bubblegum theme)
Optional: Sprinkles, for decoration

Ingredients List for a Decorative Bubblegum Topping:

If you want to go the extra mile with presentation and add a fun bubblegum topping, here’s what you’ll need:

Bubblegum balls or bubblegum-flavored candy
Edible glitter or pearl dust (for an extra dreamy effect)
White chocolate drizzle (for added texture and visual appeal)

These toppings aren’t required but they add a fun, whimsical touch that makes your fudge look as amazing as it tastes.

Substitutions and Variations:

No recipe is complete without a few options to tweak it according to your preferences! Here are some substitutions and variations you can try for this Bubblegum Cloud Fudge:

Chocolate Variations: If white chocolate isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with milk or dark chocolate chips. Keep in mind, the fudge will be richer and less sweet, which may alter the bubblegum flavor slightly.
Different Extracts: Don’t have bubblegum extract on hand? You can use vanilla, cotton candy, or even strawberry extract for a similar sweet, nostalgic taste.
Vegan Option: You can make this fudge dairy-free by using plant-based butter, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and dairy-free white chocolate chips. Make sure your marshmallows or marshmallow cream are also vegan-friendly.
Food Coloring: While pink is the classic bubblegum color, you can use blue, purple, or any color you like to match a party theme or personal preference.
Add-Ins: For extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or even crushed candy for a crunchy twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s go over the process of making your homemade bubblegum cloud fudge. Follow these steps to ensure you get the fluffiest, cloud-like fudge with a perfect bubblegum flavor.

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides to lift the fudge out later. This will make removing the fudge much easier once it has set.

Step 2: Heat the Sugar Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved. Once the mixture starts to boil, stop stirring and let it boil for 4-5 minutes until it reaches the soft-ball stage, around 234°F (112°C) on a candy thermometer.

Step 3: Add the Flavors

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the white chocolate chips until fully melted. Then, mix in the marshmallow cream, vanilla extract, and bubblegum extract. Stir the mixture until smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Add Color

Stir in a few drops of pink food coloring (or the color of your choice) until the fudge reaches your desired shade. If you want a swirl effect, don’t mix the color completely—just swirl it in gently with a spatula.

Step 5: Pour and Set

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. If you’re using sprinkles or other decorative toppings, now is the time to add them on top. Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, then transfer it to the refrigerator to set completely for an additional 2 hours.

How to Cook Bubblegum Cloud Fudge: A Step-by-Step Guide

This section provides an easy-to-follow guide that covers everything from prepping to cooking the fudge perfectly.

Prepare Your Ingredients: Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are measured and ready to go. This will help make the cooking process smoother and prevent any mistakes.
Use a Candy Thermometer: While not strictly necessary, a candy thermometer ensures you reach the right temperature (234°F) for your fudge. It’s the key to achieving that perfect creamy texture.
Boil Without Stirring: Once the sugar mixture starts to boil, resist the urge to stir. Stirring can cause sugar crystals to form, which will make your fudge grainy instead of smooth.
Cool Properly: Let the fudge cool completely before cutting. If you rush this step, the fudge may not hold its shape and could turn out too soft.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Sugar Mixture: Cooking the sugar mixture past the soft-ball stage can result in hard, crumbly fudge. Keep an eye on your thermometer!
Not Mixing Thoroughly: Make sure to mix the marshmallow cream and white chocolate thoroughly to avoid lumps in your fudge.
Using the Wrong Pan Size: Stick with the recommended 8x8 inch pan size. Using a larger or smaller pan can affect the thickness and texture of your fudge.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your fudge has set, it’s time to serve! Here are some tips to make your fudge stand out:

Cut with Precision: For clean, sharp edges, use a sharp knife that you warm up in hot water. Dry the knife before each cut.
Uniform Pieces: For a professional look, cut your fudge into uniform squares or rectangles. A ruler can help with this!
Top with Candy: Add bubblegum balls or candy pieces on top for a fun and playful presentation that enhances the bubblegum theme.

How to Serve Bubblegum Cloud Fudge

Bubblegum Cloud Fudge can be served in several fun and creative ways:

Party Platters: Arrange the fudge pieces on a colorful platter with sprinkles or edible glitter scattered around for a festive touch.
Individually Wrapped: For party favors or gifts, wrap individual pieces in wax paper or clear plastic wrap with a ribbon.
Paired with Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Presentation Ideas for Bubblegum Cloud Fudge

Take your presentation to the next level with these fun ideas:

Rainbow Layers: Create multiple layers of different colored fudge to mimic a rainbow cloud.
Fun Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut the fudge into stars, hearts, or other playful shapes.
Fudge Pops: Insert lollipop sticks into each square to make "fudge pops" that are easy to grab and eat!

Bubblegum Cloud Fudge Recipe Tips

Make Ahead: This fudge can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Keep it Soft: To maintain the soft, cloud-like texture, don’t overcook the sugar mixture. Watch your thermometer closely.
Experiment with Colors: Don’t be afraid to get creative with different food colorings to match your event theme!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Bubblegum Cloud Fudge?
A: Yes! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container.

Q: How long does it take to make this fudge?
A: The cooking process takes about 15-20 minutes, but the fudge will need at least 4 hours to cool and set properly.

Q: Can I make this without bubblegum extract?
A: Yes, you can use other extracts like vanilla or strawberry, though the flavor won’t be the same as classic bubblegum.

Conclusion

Making Homemade Bubblegum Cloud Fudge is an easy, fun, and creative way to bring a touch of nostalgia to your dessert table. With its light, fluffy texture and playful bubblegum flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, the flexibility to customize the recipe with different colors, toppings, and flavors makes it a versatile treat for any occasion. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and start whipping up a batch of this dreamy, cloud-like fudge today!