Here’s a detailed, step-by-step recipe for a delicious Pudding Cool Whip Frosting that’s fluffy, creamy, and perfect for cakes or cupcakes. I’ll include full measurements, descriptions, and tips to ensure it turns out perfectly.
Pudding Cool Whip Frosting
Ingredients
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1 (3.4 oz) package instant pudding mix – any flavor you like (vanilla, chocolate, or chocolate fudge are popular).
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1 cup cold milk – cold milk helps the pudding thicken quickly and keeps the frosting light.
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8 oz Cool Whip (thawed) – provides the fluffy, airy texture that makes this frosting so light.
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Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for extra flavor if using vanilla pudding.
Equipment Needed
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Mixing bowl (medium to large)
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Electric mixer or whisk
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Rubber spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the pudding
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In a medium bowl, pour 1 cup of cold milk.
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Sprinkle the pudding mix evenly over the milk.
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Using a whisk or electric mixer on low, beat for about 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.
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✅ Tip: The pudding should be thick but still pourable. If it’s too thick, you can add 1–2 tablespoons of milk.
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Step 2: Let the pudding set
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
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Place it in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes to allow the pudding to firm slightly.
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✅ Tip: You don’t want it to be rock hard, just thickened so it holds the Cool Whip better.
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Step 3: Fold in the Cool Whip
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Take 8 oz of thawed Cool Whip and add it to the pudding.
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Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the Cool Whip into the pudding.
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Start by adding a third of the Cool Whip.
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Fold gently from the bottom of the bowl over the top to avoid deflating the fluffiness.
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Repeat with the remaining Cool Whip.
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✅ Tip: Folding, not stirring vigorously, keeps the frosting light and airy.
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Step 4: Add flavoring (optional)
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If you want extra flavor, fold in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract at this stage.
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For chocolate pudding, you can also fold in a tablespoon of cocoa powder for extra richness.
Step 5: Chill the frosting
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate the frosting for at least 30 minutes before using.
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This helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to spread on cakes or cupcakes.
Step 6: Frost your cake
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Use a spatula or piping bag to frost your cake or cupcakes.
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For a smooth finish, dip the spatula in warm water and gently smooth the frosting.
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Garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fruit if desired.
Tips for Best Results
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Always use thawed Cool Whip, never frozen, to ensure smooth folding.
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Don’t overmix when folding; you want to keep the light texture.
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This frosting is best stored in the refrigerator and should be used within 2–3 days.
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You can double the recipe for a two-layer cake or a dozen cupcakes.
Description of the Frosting
This Pudding Cool Whip Frosting is:
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Light and fluffy – thanks to the whipped topping.
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Creamy and smooth – the pudding gives it a rich texture without heaviness.
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Sweet but balanced – perfect for complementing cakes without overpowering them.
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Versatile – works with any flavor of cake or cupcake.
It’s basically like a cloud of flavored cream that melts in your mouth—soft, creamy, and perfect for parties or everyday treats.