Cotton Candy, also known as candy fluff or candy floss – that old-time classic treat. Its history in America can be traced back to the historical 1904 World’s Fair, but the history of cotton candy may go back even further throughout the world.

The concept behind making cotton candy isn’t rocket science. In fact, cotton candy floss is nothing more than granulated sugar that’s colored and flavored. It comes in a variety of flavors such as: strawberry, blueberry, banana, cherry, lime, bubble gum, and pina colada, plus many more! Among the most popular is pink vanilla. That’s the one most everyone associates with cotton candy color, taste and smell. If you have the luxury of owning two or more cotton candy makers, you may even mix up different flavors to make a two or three-colored combination.

While it’s possible to make this confectionary delight at home with things you find in the kitchen, this can get a little messy.

Cotton candy machines make the experience much easier by using a heated spinner head that forces melting sugar through tiny holes – a job you would do by the tiresome task of hand whisking otherwise. Cotton candy machines rely on centrifugal force to press the melted sugar through the holes and into a large bowl called a floss pan. In this process, the sugar amazingly transforms into a fluffy sugar that builds up on the inside wall of the bowl. When enough of the fluff accumulates, it’s time to twirl a floss stick around the inside of the bowl. In seconds, you have that classic treat!

Cotton candy makers come in two basic classes: entry-level, suitable for home use, as well as commercial-level. Prices typically start at around $50 for an entry level machine, while commercial-level machines generally start at around $1000.

Entry Level Cotton Candy Makers:

Within the entry-level category you have a rather wide range of machines and prices – some priced up towards $500.

So why such a large price range for an entry-level cotton candy machine?

It really comes down to motor capability and output per minute. Lower priced machines (between $50 and $100), may produce smaller and fewer servings per minute (generally 1 or 2 servings per minute).  This is adequate for the occasional treat for kids and grandkids. Whereas, higher priced entry-level machines might include features like a heavy duty motor and cool-running heat controls. These machines often produce 2 to 4 larger servings per minute. Higher end entry-level machines (between $250 and $500) are fantastic for home use, particularly if you’re having a party or event. *However, these machines generally are not adequate for commercial use.

Professional (Commercial-Level) Cotton Candy Makers:

Do you have a concession business? Looking a machine that will produce 6 to 8 jumbo servings of cotton candy per minute, or, a machine you can run for hours on end? Commercial machines will do the job. These machines typically have a high performance spinning head that will hold more sugar, while the high horsepower/RPM motor is suspension mounted for smooth and quiet operation. In addition, many pro-level machines feature voltage meters and precise controls, ensuring consistent power throughout operation.

*Always consult machine manufacturers or an authorized dealer to determine what machine is the best for you.

No matter what level cotton candy maker you need, always look for the best components possible – a stainless steel control cabinet and steel, or aluminum floss pan.

Another good thing to have is a floss bubble – a dome shaped top for the machine. This important accessory will keep any flying floss at bay. Most high-end machines and some entry-level machines are designed to work with a floss bubble.

Cotton candy is downright fun to make, while spectators love to see it being produced. Those in the concession business, it means substantial profits. For those making it at home, it’s a special feature at any party or event.

Consider cotton candy for your next event!