If you’re looking for a fluffy, foolproof frosting that’s light, creamy, and not too sweet, this Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting is the answer. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a stable, whipped frosting that’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, trifles, and more. It holds up beautifully in the fridge and pipes like a dream—ideal for anyone who wants a frosting that’s easy and delicious.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Light and Airy – Like whipped cream, but thicker and more stable.
Simple Ingredients – Just 3–4 pantry staples.
Customizable Flavors – Choose your favorite pudding mix to switch it up.
Quick to Make – Ready in under 10 minutes.
Holds Its Shape – Great for piping, layering, and chilling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant pudding mix (any flavor—vanilla, chocolate, cheesecake, etc.)
- 1 cup cold milk (whole or 2% recommended)
- 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for extra sweetness)
- Food coloring (for special occasions or themes)
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pudding Base
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk.
- Whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Let sit for 2–3 minutes to set up.
Step 2: Fold in Cool Whip
- Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip using a spatula until completely combined.
- Add vanilla extract if using and mix just until smooth.
- Taste and adjust sweetness with powdered sugar if desired.
Step 3: Chill & Use
- Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes before using to allow the frosting to fully set.
- Spread or pipe onto cooled cakes, cupcakes, or other desserts.
Flavor Combinations to Try
- Vanilla Pudding + Cool Whip – Classic for white or yellow cakes.
- Chocolate Pudding + Cool Whip – Great on brownies or chocolate cake.
- Cheesecake Pudding + Cool Whip – Delicious on fruit-topped desserts.
- Lemon Pudding + Cool Whip – Perfect for spring and citrus cakes.
- Butterscotch Pudding + Cool Whip – Rich and nostalgic.
Tips for Best Results
Use Cold Milk – Ensures the pudding thickens quickly.
Thaw Cool Whip – Cold but not frozen for best mixing.
Don’t Overmix – Gently fold to keep the frosting fluffy.
Chill Before Using – Helps it set for easy spreading or piping.
Store in Fridge – Keeps the texture smooth and safe to eat.
Serving Suggestions
Frosting for Cakes & Cupcakes – Light and creamy for any occasion.
Fruit Dip – Serve with strawberries, apples, or pineapple.
Layered in Trifles – Perfect between cake cubes and fruit.
Topping for Pie – Spread over banana, chocolate, or pudding pies.
Filling for Whoopie Pies – Fluffy, not overly sweet.
How to Store & Reuse
Storing:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as texture may change when thawed.
Reusing:
- Stir gently before reusing if it separates slightly.
- Re-pipe or spread easily after a quick chill.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use sugar-free pudding?
Yes! Just use the same amount and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
2. Can I make it thicker for piping?
Use slightly less milk (¾ cup) for a firmer consistency.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just scale ingredients evenly.
4. Can I add cream cheese?
Yes—blend 4 oz softened cream cheese with the pudding before folding in Cool Whip for a tangy twist.
5. Will it melt at room temperature?
It holds up well for several hours at room temp, but is best stored in the fridge for longer periods.
Final Thoughts
Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting is the ultimate easy frosting hack—smooth, stable, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re topping cupcakes for a birthday party or layering it into a trifle, this creamy frosting is a no-fail favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see what flavor combo you create.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Per 2 Tbsp Serving):
Calories: 80 | Protein: 1g | Carbohydrates: 7g | Fat: 5g | Fiber: 0g | Sodium: 85mg

Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Description
If you’re looking for a fluffy, foolproof frosting that’s light, creamy, and not too sweet, this Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting is the answer. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a stable, whipped frosting that’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, trifles, and more. It holds up beautifully in the fridge and pipes like a dream—ideal for anyone who wants a frosting that’s easy and delicious.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
-
1 box (3.4 oz) instant pudding mix (any flavor—vanilla, chocolate, cheesecake, etc.)
-
1 cup cold milk (whole or 2% recommended)
-
1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
-
½ tsp vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
Optional Add-Ins:
-
2 tbsp powdered sugar (for extra sweetness)
-
Food coloring (for special occasions or themes)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pudding Base
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk.
-
Whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
-
Let sit for 2–3 minutes to set up.
Step 2: Fold in Cool Whip
-
Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip using a spatula until completely combined.
-
Add vanilla extract if using and mix just until smooth.
-
Taste and adjust sweetness with powdered sugar if desired.
Step 3: Chill & Use
-
Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes before using to allow the frosting to fully set.
-
Spread or pipe onto cooled cakes, cupcakes, or other desserts.
Flavor Combinations to Try
-
Vanilla Pudding + Cool Whip – Classic for white or yellow cakes.
-
Chocolate Pudding + Cool Whip – Great on brownies or chocolate cake.
-
Cheesecake Pudding + Cool Whip – Delicious on fruit-topped desserts.
-
Lemon Pudding + Cool Whip – Perfect for spring and citrus cakes.
-
Butterscotch Pudding + Cool Whip – Rich and nostalgic.
Notes
Use Cold Milk – Ensures the pudding thickens quickly.
Thaw Cool Whip – Cold but not frozen for best mixing.
Don’t Overmix – Gently fold to keep the frosting fluffy.
Chill Before Using – Helps it set for easy spreading or piping.
Store in Fridge – Keeps the texture smooth and safe to eat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American