Can you use hard candy in a cotton maker?

It's not recommended to use hard candy in a cotton candy maker. Here's why:

* Melting point: Hard candy has a much higher melting point than sugar. Cotton candy makers are designed for sugar, which melts at a lower temperature, allowing it to be spun into fine strands. Hard candy will likely burn or harden in the machine before it can be spun.

* Consistency: Hard candy is designed to be firm and brittle. It lacks the flowy, viscous quality that's necessary for cotton candy making.

* Safety: Hard candy can become extremely hot when melted. Using it in a cotton candy maker could pose a safety risk.

Instead of hard candy, you can use:

* Granulated sugar: This is the most common and recommended ingredient for cotton candy.

* Sugar crystals: These can create a slightly coarser texture for your cotton candy.

* Sugar-based candy melts: Some candy melts are specifically designed for cotton candy machines.

Remember: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific cotton candy maker.