This Cool Whip pudding frosting is a light, creamy, and stable topping that comes together in just minutes. With a mousse-like texture and customizable flavor, it’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or even as a dip for fruit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this frosting because it’s:
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Quick and easy: I can whip it up in about 5 minutes with no cooking required.
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Versatile: I can change the flavor by using different pudding mixes.
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Stable: It holds up well for piping and layering without melting quickly.
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Light and fluffy: It offers a less sweet alternative to traditional buttercream.
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Make-ahead friendly: I can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
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2 tablespoons powdered sugar
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½ cup cold milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, I combine the pudding mix, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. I beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes until it thickens.
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I gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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I use the frosting immediately on my baked goods or store it in the refrigerator until needed.
Servings and Timing
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Yield: Approximately 2 cups of frosting, enough for a 9x13-inch cake or 12 cupcakes.
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
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Flavor: I switch up the pudding mix to create different flavors like chocolate, lemon, or pistachio.
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Color: I add a few drops of food coloring to match the theme of my dessert.
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Sugar-free: I use sugar-free pudding mix and light Cool Whip for a lower-calorie option.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigerator: I store the frosting in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: I freeze it for up to 2 months. Before using, I thaw it in the refrigerator and re-whip if necessary.
FAQs
How can I make the frosting thicker?
If I want a thicker consistency, I add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until I reach the desired thickness.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, I can use homemade whipped cream, but the frosting may not be as stable. I ensure the whipped cream is stiffly whipped before folding it in.
Is this frosting suitable for piping?
Absolutely! This frosting is stable enough for piping and holds its shape well on cupcakes and cakes.
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes, I can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. I give it a quick stir before using to restore its texture.
What desserts pair well with this frosting?
I use this frosting on cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or as a dip for fresh fruit. It's versatile and complements many desserts.
Conclusion
This Cool Whip pudding frosting is a delightful and easy-to-make topping that adds a light and creamy touch to my favorite desserts. With its quick preparation and versatile flavor options, it's a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Print
Cool Whip Pudding Frosting
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups (enough for 1 cake or 12 cupcakes)
- Category: Frosting/Dessert Topping
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This light and fluffy Cool Whip pudding frosting is the perfect no-bake topping for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or fruit. Made with just 4 simple ingredients, it’s stable, easy to customize, and comes together in just 5 minutes—ideal for any dessert lover!
Ingredients
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ cup cold milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pudding mix, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Beat with an electric mixer on medium-high for about 2 minutes until thickened.
- Gently fold in Cool Whip until smooth and creamy.
- Use immediately or refrigerate until ready to frost.
Notes
- To thicken the frosting, add more powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time.
- For flavor variations, substitute the vanilla pudding mix with chocolate, lemon, or pistachio.
- Food coloring can be added to match dessert themes.
- Homemade whipped cream may be used in place of Cool Whip but may reduce stability.
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