Have you ever wanted a frosting that’s creamy, fluffy, and ridiculously easy to make? Look no further because this Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting is a total game-changer. Imagine the light, fluffy texture of Cool Whip blended with the rich, velvety flavor of pudding—it’s like frosting heaven. Whether you’re decorating a cake, cupcakes, or cookies, this frosting is guaranteed to make everything you top it with feel extra special.
What I love about this frosting is that it’s simple to whip up, yet tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, and it holds up beautifully, making it ideal for any cake or dessert. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your back pocket!
Why You’ll Love Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting
Quick and Easy: With only a few ingredients, you can make this frosting in no time. No complicated steps or fancy equipment needed—just mix and go!
Fluffy Texture: The Cool Whip gives it that light, airy texture that’s almost cloud-like. It spreads beautifully and gives your desserts that professional finish.
Versatile: You can use this frosting on all kinds of desserts—from cakes and cupcakes to cookies and brownies. Plus, it comes in a variety of flavors depending on the pudding mix you choose.
Creamy and Delicious: The pudding adds a rich, velvety flavor that complements any cake or dessert. It’s not too sweet, but just sweet enough to make your treats irresistible.
Customizable: Want to switch things up? You can mix in different flavors of pudding to match the theme of your dessert—chocolate, vanilla, butterscotch, you name it!
Ingredients for Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dreamy frosting:
For the Frosting:
- 1 box of instant pudding mix (any flavor you like—vanilla, chocolate, butterscotch, or cheesecake are all great options)
- 1 1/2 cups of Cool Whip (make sure it’s thawed)
- 1 cup of milk (any type you prefer—whole milk, almond milk, etc.)
- 1/4 cup of powdered sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s get started and make this frosting in just a few simple steps!
1. Whisk the Pudding Mix and Milk:
- In a large bowl, whisk together your instant pudding mix and milk. Stir for about 2 minutes until the pudding begins to thicken. This will only take a couple of minutes since it’s instant pudding, but it’s important to let it set up a bit.
2. Fold in the Cool Whip:
- Once the pudding mixture has thickened, gently fold in the Cool Whip using a spatula. Stir until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
3. Add Powdered Sugar (Optional):
- If you like your frosting a bit sweeter, you can add about 1/4 cup of powdered sugar and mix until fully combined. This step is totally optional based on your sweetness preference!
4. Frost Your Dessert:
- Once your frosting is ready, spread it generously over your cake, cupcakes, or cookies. It’s light, fluffy, and will beautifully coat your treats without being too heavy.
5. Let It Set:
- Allow the frosting to set for a little while if needed—especially if you’ve added extra layers of frosting or decorating. It will firm up a bit and hold its shape beautifully.
(Note: The full instructions, including times and temperatures, are provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12 (depending on how thickly you frost your desserts)
Calories per serving: 100
Total Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 40mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 12g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin A: 4%
Vitamin C: 0%
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 0%
(Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.)
How to Serve Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting
On Cakes and Cupcakes: This frosting is perfect for topping off cakes and cupcakes. Whether you’re making a simple vanilla cake or something more decadent like chocolate cake, this frosting adds that perfect finishing touch.
For Cookies: Spread a layer of frosting on sugar cookies or chocolate chip cookies for an indulgent treat. You can also use it as a filling between cookies for a sweet sandwich!
As a Dip: If you’re in the mood for something fun and interactive, serve this frosting as a dip for fruit or graham crackers. It’s sweet, fluffy, and a hit at parties.
Layered Desserts: Layer this frosting between layers of cake or even in a trifle for a layered dessert that looks as gorgeous as it tastes!
Additional Tips
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of instant pudding. Chocolate pudding is especially decadent for a rich, creamy frosting, while lemon pudding adds a zesty twist.
- Make It Ahead: You can make this frosting a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using to make sure it’s nice and smooth.
- Stabilize the Frosting: If you need a more stable frosting for decorating cakes or cupcakes (especially in warmer climates), you can add a little cornstarch to the pudding mix to help it firm up.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use sugar-free pudding mix?
A1: Yes! You can use sugar-free pudding mix if you’re looking to cut down on the sweetness or calories.
Q2: Can I use whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
A2: Absolutely! Whipped cream can be used in place of Cool Whip, though it might not have the same stable, fluffy texture.
Q3: Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
A3: Yes! Make the frosting ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just make sure to stir it well before using.
Q4: Can I add food coloring to this frosting?
A4: Yes, you can add food coloring to give it a fun pop of color! Just a few drops of gel food coloring will do the trick.
Q5: Can I use this frosting for piping designs?
A5: It’s a bit too soft for intricate piping designs, but it works wonderfully for spreading on cakes and cupcakes. For more detailed piping, you can refrigerate the frosting to help it firm up a bit first.
Q6: Can I use a different kind of topping?
A6: Sure! You can top your dessert with sprinkles, chocolate chips, or even fresh fruit for added flavor and texture.
Q7: Can I make this frosting dairy-free?
A7: Yes! You can use dairy-free pudding mix and Cool Whip alternatives (like coconut whipped topping) to make a dairy-free version of this frosting.
Q8: How do I store leftover frosting?
A8: Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for about 3 days. If it thickens up in the fridge, just give it a good stir before using it again.
Q9: Can I use this frosting on a layered cake?
A9: Yes! This frosting works beautifully for layered cakes. Just be sure to refrigerate the cake to keep the frosting firm.
Q10: Can I make this frosting without the pudding mix?
A10: The pudding mix adds flavor and texture to the frosting. While you could make a basic whipped cream frosting, it might not have the same richness without the pudding mix.
Conclusion
This Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting is a total lifesaver when you want a frosting that’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. With its light, fluffy texture and smooth, creamy flavor, it’s sure to elevate any dessert you make. Whether you’re frosting a cake, cupcakes, or cookies, this frosting is a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition. Enjoy the sweet, indulgent moments!
PrintCool Whip and Pudding Frosting
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Frosts one 9x13 cake or 12–16 cupcakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This simple and delicious Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or even using as a dip for fresh fruit. With its light, creamy texture, it’s a versatile and easy-to-make frosting that’ll elevate any dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz container Cool Whip (thawed)
Instructions
- Mix the Pudding Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the mixture for about 2 minutes, until smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate the Cool Whip: Once the pudding mixture is well combined, add the thawed Cool Whip. Beat on medium speed until the Cool Whip is fully incorporated into the pudding mixture, creating a light and fluffy frosting.
- Ready to Use: Your Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting is now ready to use! Spread it generously over cakes, cupcakes, or brownies. You can also use it as a dip for fresh fruit for a delicious treat.
- Refrigerate if Needed: If you’re not using the frosting right away, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. Desserts topped with this frosting should also be stored in the refrigerator due to the Cool Whip content.
Notes
- Versatile Use: This frosting can be used to top a variety of desserts such as cakes, cupcakes, and brownies.
- As a Fruit Dip: It also works wonderfully as a dip for fresh fruits like strawberries, bananas, or pineapple chunks.
- Extra Touch: For added flair, sprinkle chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, or colorful sprinkles over the frosting before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (approx.)
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg