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Gold Medal's Guide to Cotton Candy

It’s the delightful, sweet treat that brings joy to everyone, young and old… cotton candy! More than just a snack, it is a nostalgic memory that brings a smile to your face. It’s a flavorful sweetness that pleases the tastebuds. Cotton candy isn’t just for carnivals, stadiums, and amusement parks. It can make any event feel extraordinary. Discover why venues can’t resist adding cotton candy to their menu.

Gold Medal Cotton Candy Machine
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The Benefits of Selling Cotton Candy

  1. Affordable Cost: Cotton candy delivers value by being a low-cost treat to produce. The cost per serving can be as low as 20¢ (depending on packaging). This gives room to build in high potential profit margins while still delivering value to customers.
  2. Wide Appeal: All ages enjoy cotton candy! There’s an emotional connection of happiness, fun, and delight. With such popularity, cotton candy can be a hit in nearly any location.
  3. Pure Simplicity: Using the right equipment and supplies, cotton candy is easy to make. Just add Flossugar to the machine and in moments the sugar swirls into a fluffy cloud of cotton candy. Gather the wisps with a cone, then you’re ready to enjoy or package it for later. It’s quick and effortless!
  4. Versatile Treat: Cotton candy can be enjoyed year-round! You may think of cotton candy at fairs and amusement park concession stands, yet it can fit into many other venues as well. Movie theaters sell it alongside popcorn. Restaurants enhance desserts or decorate cocktails. Even schools, churches, and fundraisers can add cotton candy to their events.
  5. Minimal Overhead: Getting started with cotton candy requires little equipment and space, making it accessible for many businesses. With just a cotton candy machine, some Flossugar, cones, and bags, you have everything you need to start selling.
  6. Flavorful Selection: While pink and blue cotton candy are the most popular, there’s a wide selection of flavors to choose from. Create fruity flavors like cherry, indulge in decadent chocolate, try sweet bubble gum, and even enjoy birthday cake. There’s something for every occasion!

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A Brief History of Cotton Candy and Fun Facts

The history of cotton candy might surprise you! The roots go back to Renaissance Italy. At that time, chefs would melt and manually spin sugar into strands using forks, carefully draping them over broom handles. As you may imagine, the process was time-consuming and expensive.

The person who would take credit for inventing the cotton candy machine was surprisingly a dentist. Dr. William Morrison teamed up with candy maker, John C. Wharton to revolutionize the sugary treat. In 1897, they invented a machine that heated sugar in a spinning bowl, equipped with tiny holes. As the sugar melted, it was forced through the holes creating light, airy strands, which they named “Fairy Floss.”

The debut of cotton candy occurred at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. It was a hit! Within six months, Morrison and Wharton sold 68,000 boxes of Fairy Floss for 25 cents each. (The equivalent of $6.75 today.) Within a year, a candy store purchased the first electric machine to keep up with the demand.

Cotton candy continued to be a best-selling treat. In 1949, Gold Medal Products Co. created its first factory-made cotton candy machine, which paved the way for mass production. Then, in 1951, the first machine-made cotton candy paper cone was patented, establishing Gold Medal as the go-to supplier for those in the cotton candy business.

Cotton Candy Around the Globe

Did you know cotton candy is known by many names across different cultures?

Candy Floss

In England, it is called “Candy Floss.”

Dragon's Beard

In China, it is known as “Dragon’s Beard.”

Papa’s Beard

In France, people refer to it as “Papa’s Beard."

Old Ladies’ Hair

In Greece, it is referred to as “Old Ladies’ Hair.”

Cotton Candy Fun Facts

  • The longest batch of Cotton Candy ever made, stretched to 1,400 meters – about the length of 13 football fields.
  • A single thread of cotton candy is thinner than a human hair.
  • Comparing cotton candy to soda, cotton candy contains less sugar and fewer calories.
  • Celebrate National Cotton Candy Day on December 7th
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Cotton Candy Machines 101

Cotton Candy is one of the most popular and profitable snacking opportunities. With so many options, choosing the right machine is key. The Gold Medal experts can help you; whether you are looking to expand your menu options or starting up a gourmet cotton candy business, we can guide you to the machine that suits your needs.

pink cotton candy spinning inside metal cotton candy machine.

How to Make Cotton Candy: Making cotton candy is so simple, it’s like magic. Once your cotton candy machine is turned on and warmed up, you add a scoop of Flossugar to the center of the machine. The sugar will quickly melt, and it is then spun into fine, sugary threads. The threads are pushed outward by the machine’s spinning head, forming the wisps that will become cotton candy. As the sugary strands gather, use a paper cone to gently twirl them into a fluffy cloud-like treat.

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single serve machine on that is blue with lid on dark background.

Single-Serve Cotton Candy Machines: Some venues want the ability to make single servings of cotton candy. This allows you to easily customize flavors for each customer and makes it possible to create cotton candy art. The QuickSpin® is designed to be both flexible and efficient. The unique and innovative QuickStart and QuickCool technologies work together to limit downtime and protect the life of the machine. The floss streams from the center of the floss head, allowing operators to shape the cotton candy into flowers or sculptures. The QuickSpin is a fit for carnival and fairs, stadiums and arenas, tourist attractions, party rental stores, and catered events.

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cotton candy machine on blue background with texture on it.

Small to Medium Volume Cotton Candy Machines: Our standard cotton candy machines perform well in small or medium-sized venues. The Auto Breeze® EZ Kleen Head is one of the best-selling machines in this category. Packed with valuable features, this machine includes a snap-in-place floss head that requires no tools. The molded rubber floaters give a thicker grip area. Plus, for peace of mind, it also carries a UL Sanitation Listing. It is a fit for locations that may have various people operating the machine, such as party rental stores, schools, grocery stores, fundraisers, and family fun centers.

Gold Medal manufactures a variety of cotton candy machines in this category. See our complete line of small / medium cotton candy machines.

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cotton candy machine super imposed over stadium field

Large Volume Cotton Candy Machines: When cotton candy production is your primary business, you need a commercial-grade machine able to deliver maximum performance. We recommend the Stainless Steel Deluxe Whirlwind®. With a 1/3 horsepower, heavy duty motor, it is able to create 5-6 servings per minute. The voltage boost transformer and volt-meter allow for steady power in the midst of power differentials. And the stainless-steel cabinet makes this a highly durable machine. For busy settings like stadiums, amusement parks, colleges/universities, movie theaters, carnival and fair concession stands, this cotton candy machine is a powerhouse.

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heat element from cotton candy machine with abstract background design and highlights.

Understanding Cotton Candy Machine Heating Elements: When comparing cotton candy machines, a key factor is knowing the type of heating element. Some are ribbon and others are tubular. Each offers different features and benefits, so it is important to understand how it impacts machine operation.

Ribbon Style Heat Element

  • Responsive Temperature Controls
  • Faster Heat Up and Cool Down Times
  • Lower Durability
  • More Energy Efficient
  • Great fit for owner/operator or experienced professional staff
 

Tubular Style Heat Element

  • Slower to React to Heat Adjustments
  • Slightly Longer Heat Up Time and Gradual Cool Down
  • Higher Durability
  • Higher Energy Consumption
  • Best for party rental stores, multiple operators, or inexperienced staff or volunteers
 
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Merchandisers and Accessories: Sell more cotton candy when you use a cart or merchandiser. We offer a variety of displays, floss bubbles, and accessories designed to make you stand out.

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Which Cotton Candy Machine is Right for Me?

When choosing cotton candy equipment from Gold Medal Products Co., it's important to consider a variety of factors to ensure that you get the right machine for your needs. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

  1. What type of venue are you operating in? Needs can vary based on venue type. A small nonprofit fundraiser is very different from a bustling amusement park. Will you be at a permanent location or is portability necessary? Take time to define your requirements.
  2. Will you be making cotton candy in front of customers? Some cotton candy is made in front of customers while others are behind the scenes. Producing in front of people is entertaining and engaging. While backroom production is best suited for high-volume operations. Consider if you will need a cart or merchandisers.
  3. How many servings per hour do you anticipate selling? Take into consideration factors such as average attendance and past sales. Can you prepare in advance? If you’re unsure about your numbers, consult with a Gold Medal concession specialist who can provide guidance based on your venue type.
  4. What is your ideal serving size? The standard serving size is about 3 oz, which is a large bag. In some cases, you may opt for eye-catching jumbo sizes. Or for certain events, such as those with younger children, you may offer smaller portions.
  5. Who will be operating the cotton candy machine? If you are an owner/operator or have trained staff, you can choose from a wider range of machines. Those that rely on volunteers or inexperienced staff, it is best to select an entry level cotton candy machine.
  6. How many colors or flavors do you want to offer? Many vendors stick with just the traditional pink and blue cotton candy. However, for those who want the option to offer more flavors and switch colors easily, you’ll need a more versatile cotton candy machine like the QuickSpin®.
  7. Will you be making cotton candy in advance? For high-demand venues, you may need to make cotton candy in advance. Consider investing in accessories like bag blowers to streamline the process and reduce prep time.
  8. Is creating a theatrical experience important to your customers? Making cotton candy fresh, on-site offers a sensory experience that captivates both kids and adults. Use the interaction as a way to draw in customers at fairs, school events, or even grocery stores. Plus, with certain machines, you have the option to offer cotton candy art, which is an added premium.
  9. What are the electrical requirements for your machine? Be aware of what the electrical requirements are at your venue. Many machines can accommodate a 15-amp or 20-amp setup. However, larger machines may require more power than a standard plug.
  10. What is your budget? Don’t just focus on the upfront cost. You need to take into account overall return on investment. A reputable supplier can help you map out the financial considerations and operational goals to find the best machine for you.
 
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Key Features of a Gold Medal Cotton Candy Machine

 

Why do professionals around the world trust Gold Medal’s cotton candy machines? The level of craftmanship that goes into each machine is unequaled. Here are the key features that operators appreciate:

  • High-Performance Heating Elements: The heating element is the foundation of any cotton candy machine. Gold Medal’s high-performance heating elements provide quick heat-up times and consistent temperature control.
  • Heavy-Duty Motors: For high-volume production, you need a motor that can keep up with even the busiest production demands. Heavy-duty motors mean your customers don’t have to wait to enjoy delicious cotton candy.
  • Durable Construction: Stainless steel and aluminum make Gold Medal machines built to last. This construction not only benefits longevity of the machine, but also makes it resistant to corrosion and easy to clean.
  • Advanced Floss Head Design: Gold Medal’s optimized floss head design ensures maximum sugar-to-floss conversion. This gives you better yields and less waste. Plus, our patented EZ Kleen Head makes assembly simple – no tools required.
  • Adjustable Settings: Many of Gold Medal’s cotton candy machines offer adjustable heat and voltage settings. This versatility ensures consistent quality regardless of the environment.
  • Ease of Use: Built to be user-friendly, the straightforward operation is an advantage. It can be used by beginners or experienced operators. Some models offer single switch control for the ultimate in convenience.
  • Safety Features: Safety is always top of mind. You can find machines equipped with features like automatic shut-off mechanisms, heat shields, and stable bases.
  • Portability and Mobility: Designed for businesses that are on the move, Gold Medal has lightweight models, along with optional rolling carts that make it easy to transport between locations.
  • Wide Range of Models: If you want the best selection of cotton candy machines, check out Gold Medal. We have models to suit different needs and budgets from compact models to high-capacity powerhouse machines.
  • Maintenance and Support: Gold Medal’s reputable customer support is here to assist with your cotton candy machine needs. From replacement parts to accessories and comprehensive user manuals, you’ll be equipped for success.

Popular Models:

 

QuickSpin®

Gold Medal’s QuickSpin®: Known for its affordability and ability to make single servings.

The Breeze®

Gold Medal’s The Breeze®: Lightweight and portable, perfect for small to medium-sized events.

Super Floss

Gold Medal Super Floss: High-capacity machine designed for large-scale production.
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Cotton Candy – Flossugar, Supplies, Packaging, and More

When making perfect-tasting gourmet cotton candy, choosing the right ingredients is imperative. Here are some things to consider:

A box of Flavacol isolated

Flossugar: A must for all cotton candy makers, Flossugar is our signature recipe of high-quality cane sugar – not too fine, not too coarse, maximum flavor. With no mixing necessary, it’s ready to use right from the carton by pouring directly into the spinner head, and it is easy to change colors each time you add sugar. From over 25 flavors to choose from, you can purchase Flossugar in ½ gallon cartons, bulk, combo cases, and 8-oz Flossugar pouches.

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A jar of Signature Blends - Birthday Cake flavor isolated with many more flavors to choose from

Flossine: For the most tantalizing aroma, best flavor, and classic cotton candy look, the secret ingredient the professionals count on is Flossine. Simply mix up to two tablespoons of Flossine to every 10lbs of your coarse/large granulated sugar. A variety of flavors are available in 1lb cans or 40 lb bulk options.

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A bottle of BBQ Signature Shakes isolated one of many flavors

Cones and Bags: When it comes to serving cotton candy, presentation is key. Gold Medal offers a wide variety of cotton candy cones and bags designed to enhance the customer experience while ensuring convenience and quality. Gold Medal’s paper cones are a staple in the cotton candy industry. Made from sturdy paper, these cones are designed to hold a generous serving of cotton candy without bending or breaking. Gold Medal’s wide variety of cotton candy bags are ideal for take-home treats and protecting the cotton candy. Made with high-quality materials, Gold Medal offers plain and preprinted cotton candy bags to keep your cotton candy fresh and fluffy.

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Business Ideas and Proven Profitability

Enhancing Your Cotton Candy Business

To stand out in the competitive cotton candy market, consider these tips:

Unique Flavors: Experimenting with unique and seasonal flavors can significantly attract more customers. Go beyond the traditional pink vanilla and blue raspberry to offer flavors like pumpkin spice, birthday cake, or even savory options like bacon. By keeping your offerings fresh and exciting, you can create a buzz and keep customers coming back for more.

Custom Branding: Customizing your cones and bags with your brand’s logo, colors, and design can help promote your business and make it memorable. High-quality packaging not only protects your product but also serves as a marketing tool. Branded merchandise can also include reusable containers or themed packaging for special events and holidays, enhancing your brand’s visibility.

Interactive Experiences: Engage your customers by offering live cotton candy-making demonstrations. These interactive experiences can be a hit at events and parties, drawing crowds and creating a memorable experience. Allowing customers to see their cotton candy being made can enhance their enjoyment and increase the perceived value of your product.

Online Presence: Leveraging social media and online marketing can help you reach a broader audience. Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to showcase your unique flavors, custom branding, and interactive experiences. Share photos, videos, and stories of your cotton candy creations, customer testimonials, and behind-the-scenes content to build a loyal online following.

Taste The Opportunity: Expand your cotton candy offerings beyond the traditional cone to create new and exciting products:

  • Cotton Candy Cocktails: Add wisps of cotton candy to cocktails for a sweet twist that dissolves into the drink, adding flavor and flair.
  • Cotton Candy Coffee: Place cotton candy over a cup of hot coffee for a fun and flavorful treat as the candy melts into the beverage.
  • Flossugar on Glass Rims: Use Flossugar to rim glasses for cocktails and mocktails, adding a sweet touch to every sip.
  • Cotton Candy Burritos: Create cotton candy burritos by wrapping cotton candy around ice cream or other sweets for a unique dessert.
  • Decorate or Bake Cakes with Flossugar: Use Flossugar in baking or decorating cakes and other baked goods, adding a whimsical and colorful element to your creations.

Enhancing Your Cotton Candy Business

Cotton candy boasts some of the highest potential profit margins in the food industry, with margins of 80-90% or higher due to its low production costs. The primary ingredients, sugar and flavoring, are inexpensive, typically costing under 20¢ per serving depending on the packaging. This low cost allows for great flexibility in pricing, making cotton candy both highly profitable and affordable for customers. By exploring innovative ways to enhance your cotton candy business, you can maximize profitability and ensure long-term success.

 
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Choose Your Industry

Looking for more detailed information on popcorn and other fun foods specific for your industry? Select your industry from the list below to learn more. Don't see your industry? Reach out to us today to connect with a dedicated concession specialist who will help you find the perfect solutions for your unique needs.

Stadiums and Arenas
Youth Sports
Amusement Parks
Mobile Concessions & Carnivals

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Top Performing Cotton Candy Blogs

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Sweetness on Demand: Advanced Technology for Making Cotton Candy

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Cotton Candy Recipes

Cotton Candy Burrito

This unique dessert features a cotton candy "tortilla" filled with your favorite ice cream, topped with sprinkles and marshmallows, and rolled up like a burrito. Perfect for parties, it’s both easy to make and visually delightful.

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Sour Watermelon Cotton Candy

Sour Watermelon Cotton Candy is a tangy twist on the classic treat! Using Wacky Watermelon Flossugar, spin cotton candy as usual and then roll it in a sour powder called "Sour Attitude" to give it that extra pucker-worthy flavor. This simple recipe is perfect for adding a sour punch to your cotton candy offerings.

See Recipe

Cotton Candy Art

Cotton Candy Art is a visually striking way to elevate your cotton candy offerings by shaping it into fun sculptures like flowers or animals. Using different flavors of Flossugar, you can create layers and shapes with a cotton candy machine and skewers, providing a delightful experience that captures attention and boosts sales.

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Caramel Apple Cotton Candy

Bring together the sweet, crisp flavor of apples with the rich taste of caramel. This recipe combines Sassy Apple Flossugar with Caramel Glaze Pop® to create a deliciously unique cotton candy treat that puts a twist on this classic fall dessert.

See Recipe
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A - The needs of a school fundraiser are different from an amusement park. To determine the proper cotton candy machine for your business, you need to consider the volume of cotton candy you want to produce, electrical capacity, portability, ease of use, flavor and color variety, and other factors. Gold Medal carries a wide range of cotton candy machines, and your representative can guide you through the process of finding the right machine.

A - It means that you can remove the floss head without tools for easy cleaning.

A - Flossine is a concentrate that is mixed with sugar. Flossugar is premixed and ready to use.

A - A bubble is highly suggested. Bubbles help keep the wind from blowing cotton candy and it also helps to keep hands out of the way of the machine.

A - Yes, humidity will make the cotton candy sticky. Try to make it in a cool, dry area.

A - The freshness of cotton candy depends upon the packaging. A cone lasts about an hour or two. A bag can last a week. And a container can last up to a month. It must be kept out of direct sunlight.

A - Pink (Silly Nilly) and blue (Boo Blue) are the best-selling cotton candy flavors.

A - Some cotton candy machines are made for single servings. It makes it simple to switch between colors and flavors for each individual customer. Other machines are best suited for making batches of cotton candy.

A - Find carts, bubbles, bag blowers, merchandisers, and even an LED light kit for your cotton candy machine. Shop cotton candy accessories here.

A - You have come to the right place. Reach out to Gold Medal and get connected with one of our professionals who can consult with you, provide samples, and offer equipment demonstrations. Call us today at 800-543-0862 or fill out our contact form.

 

Your Cotton Candy Business Deserves the Best

Don’t settle for less when it comes to quality cotton candy equipment and exceptional service. Gold Medal is dedicated to delivering the support you need to be a success. From personal consultations to hands-on demos, product samples, or training, you can rely on Gold Medal. With a network of industry professionals across 17 branches plus a global distribution network, we understand your unique challenges and are ready to help you thrive.

Discover why cotton candy is such a sweet business opportunity. Enjoy putting a smile on customers’ faces with each fluffy cloud of cotton candy. And generate impressive profit margins for your business or organization. For top-quality products, expert resources, comprehensive training, and reliable support, trust Gold Medal.

Ready to take the next step? Connect with a knowledgeable concession specialist by calling Gold Medal at 800-543-0862 or completing our contact form.