Pudding Cool Whip Frosting – Light, Fluffy, and Irresistibly Creamy!
Looking for a frosting that’s light as air, quick to whip up, and absolutely delicious on cakes, cupcakes, and more? Say hello to Pudding Cool Whip Frosting — a dreamy, no-fuss recipe that blends the creaminess of instant pudding with the airy texture of Cool Whip to create a perfectly spreadable and pipeable topping.
Whether you’re prepping for a birthday party, holiday dessert, or just want to level up your boxed cake mix, this easy frosting recipe is the ultimate shortcut to deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Frosting
- No butter or powdered sugar needed
- Ready in just 5 minutes
- Perfectly fluffy, yet stable enough for piping
- Customizable with different pudding flavors
- Stays light even after chilling
Ingredients
Enough to frost a 9×13-inch cake or 18–24 cupcakes
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant pudding mix (vanilla, chocolate, cheesecake, banana, etc.)
- 1 cup cold milk (whole milk for best texture)
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- Optional toppings: chocolate chips, shredded coconut, sprinkles, or fresh fruit
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Pudding
In a medium bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk vigorously for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture is thick and smooth. It should resemble a mousse-like texture.
Tip: Don’t use more than 1 cup of milk. Using less milk than the box instructions ensures the frosting stays thick and spreadable.
Step 2: Fold in the Cool Whip
Once the pudding is thickened, gently fold in the Cool Whip using a rubber spatula. Avoid overmixing — you want to keep as much of the airiness as possible for that light, whipped texture.
Step 3: Chill (Optional but Recommended)
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the frosting for at least 20–30 minutes. This helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to pipe or spread on cakes.
How to Use It
- Frost cupcakes with a piping bag for a pretty swirl
- Spread it over sheet cakes or layer cakes
- Use as a filling between cake layers or sandwich cookies
- Dollop on waffles or pancakes for a fun breakfast treat
- Use as a light dip for fresh strawberries and fruit
Variations & Flavor Ideas
- Banana Cream Pie Frosting: Use banana pudding mix
- Chocolate Mousse Frosting: Use chocolate pudding + a dash of espresso powder
- Strawberry Delight: Add freeze-dried strawberry powder to vanilla pudding mix
- Coconut Frosting: Use coconut cream pudding and top with toasted coconut flakes
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Not suitable for freezing (Cool Whip texture changes when frozen and thawed)
- Always refrigerate desserts topped with this frosting