Description

Light, fluffy, and lusciously creamy—Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting is the easiest way to top your cakes, cupcakes, and cookies with something that tastes like a cloud. Made with just three simple ingredients, it’s sweet but not overly rich, making it a favorite for those who want a lighter frosting alternative. Perfect for layering on cakes, piping onto cupcakes, or serving as a sweet dip!

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Ingredients

Scale

Basic Cool Whip Frosting:

1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip, thawed
1 (3.4 oz) box instant pudding mix (any flavor – vanilla, chocolate, cheesecake, etc.)
1 cup cold milk

Optional Add-Ins:

½ tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp powdered sugar (for added sweetness or thickness)
Gel food coloring (for color)
Pinch of salt (to balance sweetness)

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pudding Base
In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk.
Whisk for 2 minutes until it begins to thicken.

Step 2: Fold in Cool Whip
Gently fold in the Cool Whip using a rubber spatula until fully combined and smooth.
Be gentle—this keeps the frosting fluffy and airy.

Step 3: Chill Before Using
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the frosting firm up.
This makes it easier to spread or pipe.

Step 4: Frost and Serve
Use a knife or piping bag to frost cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or even brownies.
Leftovers can be used as a fruit dip or layered in a trifle.

Flavor Variations

Chocolate: Use chocolate pudding and top with shaved chocolate.
Lemon: Try lemon pudding and add lemon zest for brightness.
Strawberry: Use cheesecake pudding and mix in diced strawberries.
Cookies & Cream: Use vanilla pudding and fold in crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.
Peanut Butter: Use chocolate pudding and fold in 2 tbsp peanut butter for a twist.

Notes

Use Cold Milk – Helps the pudding thicken faster.
Don’t Use Cook & Serve Pudding – Only instant pudding works.
Let It Chill – Firms up and holds its shape better.
Fold Gently – Over-mixing can deflate the Cool Whip.
Add Powdered Sugar – For extra structure or sweetness if needed.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cuisine: American / No-Bake Desserts