Why is candyfloss called “candyfloss” in English?

Candyfloss is that colorful, airy treat we often encounter at fairs and festivals. In English, this snack is known as “cotton candy,” which literally means “cotton candy.” But why that name? And how did this popular treat actually come about? At Crazy Vending, the place for candyfloss machines, we take you through the sweet history of candyfloss.

The origin of the name ‘cotton candy’

The name “cotton candy” refers to the texture of the candyfloss. When sugar is heated and spun into thin threads through the air, it forms a fluffy cloud that resembles soft cotton. These cotton-like treats became popular in America around 1900 and quickly earned the nickname “cotton candy” because of their airy, wool-like structure.

Candyfloss: an invention by dentists!

Surprisingly, the first candyfloss machine was invented by William Morrison, an American dentist, together with candy maker John C. Wharton. In 1897, they designed a machine that heated sugar and spun it through a rotating drum, creating thin threads of sugar. This machine was introduced at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, where it was an immediate success. Morrison and Wharton sold no less than 68,000 boxes of “Fairy Floss,” as it was called at the time.

From “Fairy Floss” to “Cotton Candy”

Although the original name was “Fairy Floss” (literally: elf thread), the name eventually changed to “cotton candy” in the United States. In Australia and the United Kingdom, however, the treat is still known as “fairy floss” – a name that reflects the magical appearance of the spun sugar. In the Netherlands, we simply call it “suikerspin,” a name that refers to the only ingredient needed for this sweet treat: sugar!

Make Your Own ‘Candyfloss’ with a Candyfloss Machine from Crazy Vending

Do you want to create that magical candyfloss yourself, just like at the fair? At Crazy Vending, we offer candyfloss machines that let you easily spin those colourful clouds anytime, anywhere. Whether it’s for a party, market, or event – with a candyfloss machine from Crazy Vending, you bring that nostalgic sweet experience to any occasion!