Candy Floss vs Cotton Candy vs Fairy Floss – What’s the Difference?
It’s the fluffy, sugary treat we all know and love—but depending on where you are in the world, you might call it something different! In the UK, it’s Candy Floss, in the US, it’s Cotton Candy, and in Australia, it’s Fairy Floss.
But do these names refer to the same treat, or are there regional differences in how it’s made? Let’s take a deep dive into the sweet world of spun sugar and find out!
The Origins: How It All Began
The origins of candy floss date back to the late 19th century, when the first commercial machine was invented. Interestingly, the first recorded name for this treat was Fairy Floss!
- In 1897, American dentist William Morrison and confectioner John C. Wharton created the first machine-spun sugar treat.
- In 1904, they introduced it at the Louis World’s Fair, calling it Fairy Floss.
- The treat quickly spread across the world, with each country adopting its own unique name.
Candy Floss (UK) – A British Fairground Favourite
In the UK, the fluffy spun sugar treat is known as Candy Floss, a name that has been used for over a century.
- The term “floss” refers to the thread-like structure of the spun sugar.
- It became a staple at British fairgrounds, particularly at seaside resorts like Blackpool.
- Traditionally, British candy floss was white or pale pink, though today, a rainbow of colours and flavours are available.
Cotton Candy (USA) – America’s Sweet Treat
In the United States, the same treat is called Cotton Candy—a name that was officially adopted in 1921.
The name comes from its soft, cotton-like texture, which resembles fluffy cotton wool.- Unlike the UK, American Cotton Candy is often bigger and puffier, thanks to slightly different machine settings.
- It became a staple at state fairs, amusement parks, and baseball games.
Fairy Floss (Australia) – The Original Name Lives On
Down under in Australia, the treat is still known as Fairy Floss—the original name first coined by Morrison and Wharton in 1904!
- The name adds a whimsical touch, making it sound even more magical.
- Fairy Floss is a huge hit at Aussie festivals, including the famous Royal Melbourne Show.
- Like in the UK, it’s commonly found in pink and blue, but with plenty of other colours available.
Are There Any Differences in Taste or Texture?
Despite the different names, Candy Floss, Cotton Candy, and Fairy Floss are all made the same way—by melting sugar and spinning it into thin strands. However, regional preferences and techniques can create subtle differences:
| Name | Country | Typical Colours | Texture | Common Flavours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Candy Floss | UK | Pink, White | Light & airy | Strawberry, Vanilla |
| Cotton Candy | USA | Pink, Blue, Green | Extra fluffy | Bubblegum, Grape, Blue Raspberry |
| Fairy Floss | Australia | Pink, Blue, Rainbow | Similar to UK | Classic & fruity flavours |
Conclusion: Same Sweet Treat, Different Names!
No matter what you call it—Candy Floss, Cotton Candy, or Fairy Floss—this sugary delight remains a global favourite. Whether you’re enjoying it at a British funfair, an American state fair, or an Aussie festival, one thing is certain:
👉 It’s pure, sweet nostalgia in every bite!
So, next time you take a fluffy bite, remember—you’re enjoying a treat with over 100 years of history and a name that changes depending on where you are in the world!
