Cool Whip Frosting

This is the best way to make Cool Whip frosting. It keeps the frosting sturdy while spreading it on cakes or piping on cupcakes that results in a sweet sugary topping.

Cool Whip frosting is light and fluffy, but keeps its shape. Most people don’t use a chilled bowl when mixing the frosting resulting in a super soft frosting that is hard to work with.

I use a chilled bowl with a special ingredient to keep the frosting in tact and the perfect consistency for your favorite sweets.

If you’re looking for inspiration, I love topping this icing on my Raspberry and White Chocolate Loaf Cake, Red Velvet Oreo Cheesecake, and even my Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake.

How to Make Frosting from Cool Whip

A full printable version of this recipe with ingredient measurements is available at the bottom of this post.

STEP ONE: In a big bowl, mix the vanilla pudding mix, milk, and powdered sugar until it’s all blended well. Let it sit for a few minutes so the pudding can thicken.

STEP TWO: Gently mix the Cool Whip with pudding mix until it’s all one smooth combo. 

STEP THREE: Pop your Cool Whip icing in the fridge for half an hour, then it’s all set to spread on cupcakes, cakes, or any other delicious dessert.

Tips for this Cool Whip Frosting Recipe

• Fresh, chilled ingredients: Always use fresh ingredients straight from the fridge, especially the milk and Cool Whip to help the frosting stay sturdy.
• Sift the sugar: Before adding it to the bowl, sift the powdered sugar to prevent lumps.
• Whisk gently: Don’t over-whisk the mixture. Doing so might make the Cool Whip frosting lose its fluffiness.
• Chill the bowl: Using a chilled mixing bowl can help keep the Cool Whip from softening too quickly during the mixing process.
• Use real vanilla: Opt for genuine vanilla extract rather than imitation for a richer flavor.
• Keep an eye on thickness: If the mixture isn’t thickening as desired, a few extra minutes can make a difference. It’s best to be patient!

More Cool Whip Recipes 

• Cool Whip Fruit Dip
• Cool Whip Cream Cheese Frosting
• Fruit Salad with Cool Whip
• Orange Dreamsicle Salad
• 3 Ingredient Banana Pudding

Variations to this Cool Whip Frosting Recipe

• Pineapple pudding: Use pineapple-flavored pudding instead of vanilla for a tropical flavor.
• Mixed berry fun: Mix in some berry compote (like raspberry or blueberry) for a fruity twist.
• Strawberry puree: Incorporate a few tablespoons of strawberry puree into the mixture for natural strawberry flavor and color.
• Coffee lover’s frosting: Mix in a teaspoon of dissolved instant coffee for an espresso-inspired caffeine kick.
• Chocolate delight: Replace the vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding for a rich cocoa twist.

Can I Use This Frosting On Warm Cakes?

It’s best to wait until cakes are completely cooled before applying this frosting, as warmth can make it melt or become too soft.

Can I Use Cool Whip Pudding Frosting For Piping?

You can certainly use Cool Whip frosting for piping, but given its softer nature, it might not hold up to very intricate designs as efficiently as stiffer frostings.

How Long Does This Frosting Last On A Cake or Cupcake?

Once you’ve frosted your dessert, it should remain fresh and tasty for about 2-3 days in the fridge, maintaining both its flavor and consistency. 

If you’re making your dessert more than 2-3 days ahead, just wait to top it off with frosting until the serving day gets closer!

How Can I Add Color To The Frosting?

Always use gel food coloring for delicate frostings, though it’s often the best choice when coloring anything! 

It offers a vibrant hue with just a few drops, meaning it won’t alter the frosting’s consistency like liquid food colorings will.

More Homemade Frosting Recipes

• Cream Cheese Frosting
• Peanut Butter Icing
• Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting
• Raspberry Cream Cheese Frosting