Crispy Cotton Candy Bombs (Printer-Friendly)

Light, golden bites feature creamy centers with cotton candy notes and a crispy sugar-coated shell.

# What You'll Need:

→ Filling

01 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
03 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
04 - 1/2 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
05 - 1/2 cup whipped cream
06 - 2 tablespoons heavy cream

→ Dough and Coating

07 - 12 biscuit dough rounds
08 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, for dusting
09 - 4 cups vegetable oil, for frying
10 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
11 - Pastel powdered sugar, for dusting
12 - Cotton candy, for garnish

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Beat cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually beat in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cotton candy flavoring until fully combined. Gently fold in whipped cream and heavy cream to retain airiness. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to firm the mixture.
02 - Lightly dust a clean surface with flour. Flatten each biscuit dough round to about 1/8 inch thickness, turning and patting gently to create even circles. Rest dough briefly if it resists stretching.
03 - Scoop 1 to 2 tablespoons of chilled filling and roll into balls. Center each ball on a dough round. Gather dough edges and pinch firmly to seal completely, then smooth seams by rolling between palms.
04 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep, heavy pot and heat over medium until it reaches 350°F. Test readiness by dropping a piece of dough: it should sizzle and float within 2 to 3 seconds.
05 - Carefully lower 3 to 4 filled dough balls into hot oil using a slotted spoon, spacing them apart. Fry 1 to 2 minutes per side until deep golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.
06 - While still warm, toss fried bombs in granulated sugar, optionally mixing in a dash of cotton candy flavoring for enhanced taste. Ensure a thick, glittery coating on each.
07 - Place coated bombs on a plate, dust with pastel powdered sugar, and crown with tufts of fresh cotton candy. Serve immediately for warm, gooey centers or allow to cool slightly for firmer texture.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Chilling the filling prevents leakage during frying and enhances handling. Use a thermometer to maintain precise oil temperature for perfect crispiness.
02 - Fried treats are best served fresh; leftovers can be refrigerated up to two days and reheated in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Add cotton candy garnish just before serving.