If you’re looking for a frosting that’s sweet, creamy, and just plain fun, then you’re going to love this M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting! It’s the kind of frosting that makes you want to dive in with a spoon (or your finger, no judgment here!). It’s smooth, fluffy, and packed with a pop of color and crunch from the M&Ms, making it the perfect topping for cakes, cupcakes, or even cookies.
The beauty of this frosting is how easy it is to make, yet it tastes like something you’d get at a fancy bakery. The secret? The magic combo of Cool Whip for that fluffy, cloud-like texture, instant pudding mix for that creamy richness, and a colorful splash of M&Ms to give it a fun, crunchy twist. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to put it on everything!
Why You’ll Love M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting
Here’s why this frosting is going to become your new favorite go-to:
Easy & Quick: No baking skills required! This frosting comes together in minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert idea or a quick way to dress up a store-bought cake.
Fluffy & Creamy: The Cool Whip gives it a light, airy texture, while the pudding mix adds creaminess and that rich flavor we all love in a frosting.
Colorful & Fun: The M&Ms not only make the frosting look vibrant and fun, but they add a satisfying crunch and pop of chocolate that takes the flavor over the top.
Versatile: It works beautifully on cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and even as a dip for fruit. Seriously, this frosting can do it all.
Crowd-Pleasing: Kids and adults alike will go wild for this frosting! It’s a guaranteed hit at birthday parties, family gatherings, or just a fun treat to share.

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Ingredients in M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting
You’ll need just a few simple ingredients to make this frosting:
Cool Whip
The secret ingredient for that light, fluffy texture. It’s the base that makes this frosting so smooth and creamy.
Instant Pudding Mix
We’re using vanilla pudding mix for that rich, creamy flavor that brings everything together. It adds that little touch of decadence to the frosting.
Milk
Just a little milk to help combine the pudding mix with the Cool Whip for a perfect consistency.
M&Ms
The star of the show! These colorful little candies add that perfect crunch and a burst of sweetness to the frosting. You can even use different types of M&Ms (Peanut, Pretzel, etc.) to mix things up.
Instructions
Making this frosting couldn’t be easier! Here’s how you do it:
Mix the Pudding
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk. Stir for about 2 minutes until it thickens. You’ll end up with a smooth, creamy pudding base for your frosting.
Fold in the Cool Whip
Next, gently fold in the Cool Whip until the pudding and Cool Whip are fully combined. Be careful not to overmix—you want to keep that light, airy texture intact.
Add the M&Ms
Once your frosting is nice and fluffy, fold in the M&Ms. You can mix in as many as you like, depending on how crunchy and colorful you want it to be. Just make sure to leave some for sprinkling on top!
Chill & Set
If you’ve got the time, let the frosting chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps it set up a little more and makes it even easier to spread on your cake or cupcakes.
Frost & Serve
Once the frosting is ready, spread it generously on your cake, cupcakes, or cookies. Add a few extra M&Ms on top for a little extra flair. Then sit back and watch everyone dig in!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: About 12-14 (depending on how thick you frost your treats)
Calories per serving: Approx. 150–200 calories (depending on your portion size and how much M&Ms you add)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 30–60 minutes (optional, but recommended for a firmer texture)
Total Time: 5–10 minutes (plus chilling time)
How to Serve M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting
This frosting is perfect for a variety of treats. Here are a few ideas:
- Cupcakes: Top your favorite cupcakes with a generous swirl of this frosting. The crunch of the M&Ms will be the perfect contrast to the soft, fluffy cake.
- Cake: Spread it on top of a simple vanilla or chocolate cake for a fun, colorful twist.
- Cookies: Use it as a decadent frosting for sugar cookies, chocolate chip cookies, or shortbread.
- Fruit Dip: Serve it as a dip for fresh fruit like strawberries, apples, or bananas for a fun snack.
- Brownies: Spread it over brownies for an extra indulgent treat.
Additional Tips
- M&Ms Variations: Mix it up by using different kinds of M&Ms—Peanut, Pretzel, or even the Peanut Butter variety. Each version will add a unique twist to the flavor and texture.
- Make It Ahead: This frosting can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before spreading.
- Get Creative: Add a dash of vanilla extract or almond extract to give your frosting an extra layer of flavor.
- Less Sweet?: If you want a less sweet version, reduce the amount of M&Ms or skip them entirely. The Cool Whip and pudding still make for a lovely, creamy frosting on their own.
FAQ Section
1. Can I make this frosting without Cool Whip?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use Cool Whip, you can substitute it with homemade whipped cream. Just be sure to stabilize it so it holds up well in the frosting.
2. Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?
Yes! While vanilla is the most common choice, you can experiment with other flavors of instant pudding mix, such as chocolate, butterscotch, or even cheesecake for a unique twist.
3. How long will this frosting last in the fridge?
Store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Give it a good stir before using it again.
4. Can I freeze this frosting?
It’s not recommended to freeze this frosting as the texture may change once thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh or after a short time in the fridge.
5. Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the frosting ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Just make sure to give it a quick stir before applying.
6. What can I substitute the M&Ms with?
If you’re not a fan of M&Ms or want to change things up, you can substitute them with other candies like crushed Oreos, chocolate chips, sprinkles, or even chopped-up candy bars!
7. Can I use a different whipped topping instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, you can use a different brand of whipped topping, or even homemade whipped cream, but Cool Whip is preferred for its light and stable texture.
8. How can I make this frosting less sweet?
If you find the frosting too sweet, you can reduce the amount of M&Ms or add a bit more whipped cream to balance it out. You can also experiment with using a sugar-free pudding mix.
9. What’s the best way to apply this frosting?
This frosting works best when spread with an offset spatula for cakes and cupcakes. For cookies, you can pipe it onto the surface or just spread it on with a knife.
10. Can I use this frosting for other desserts?
Definitely! This frosting is versatile. Use it for cupcakes, cakes, cookies, or even as a dip for fruit like strawberries or apple slices. It’s also great as a topping for brownies!
Conclusion
This M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting is a fun, easy, and delicious way to take your desserts to the next level. Whether you’re frosting cupcakes, cakes, or just want a sweet dip for some fruit, this frosting is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its fluffy texture, creamy richness, and fun burst of color from the M&Ms, you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again. Enjoy, and happy frosting!
Print
M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Frosting for 12–15 cupcakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting is a fun, creamy, and colorful topping for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. The perfect combination of smooth pudding, fluffy Cool Whip, and crunchy M&Ms makes for a delightful and easy-to-make frosting that adds both texture and sweetness to your baked goods.
Ingredients
- 1 (3.4 oz) box vanilla pudding mix (instant)
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
- 1/2 cup M&Ms (or more, depending on preference)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with milk according to package directions. Set aside for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Once the pudding has set, gently fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Stir in the M&Ms, reserving a few for garnish if desired.
- Spread the frosting on cooled cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Garnish with extra M&Ms on top for a colorful finish.
- Refrigerate any leftover frosting, and consume within 2-3 days for the best texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can use chocolate or butterscotch pudding mix instead of vanilla.
- If you prefer a thicker frosting, use less milk when making the pudding, or add more Cool Whip to achieve your desired consistency.
- This frosting is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 45 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg