Easy Cool Whip Candy (3-Ingredient No-Bake Treat)

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Introduction

When you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven, this Easy Cool Whip Candy is the perfect answer. Light, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth soft, these little candy bites taste like fluffy frosting turned into a frozen confection. With just three simple ingredients and only a few minutes of prep, this recipe is ideal for holidays, last-minute desserts, kids’ parties, or whenever a sweet tooth strikes. Best of all, it’s endlessly customizable with different flavors and toppings.

Ingredients

(Reordered by typical use in mixing)

  • 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed
  • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant pudding mix (any flavor: vanilla, chocolate, cheesecake, pistachio, lemon, etc.)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted

Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Rubber spatula or spoon
  • Baking sheet or tray
  • Parchment paper or wax paper
  • Small spoon or cookie scoop

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tray
    Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper and set aside.
  2. Mix the base
    In a large bowl, add the thawed Cool Whip. Sprinkle in the instant pudding mix.
  3. Add sweetness
    Gradually fold in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated.
  4. Blend until fluffy
    Stir gently but thoroughly until the mixture is smooth, thick, and holds its shape. It should resemble a soft frosting or mousse.
  5. Form the candies
    Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Freeze
    Place the tray in the freezer for 1–2 hours, or until the candies are firm.
  7. Serve or store
    Once set, transfer the candies to an airtight container and keep frozen until ready to serve.

Methods & Variations

Flavor Variations

  • Chocolate lovers: Use chocolate or fudge pudding mix
  • Fruity twist: Try strawberry, banana cream, or lemon pudding
  • Holiday flavors: Pistachio (green for Christmas), cheesecake, or white chocolate

Coating Ideas

Before freezing, you can roll or sprinkle candies with:

  • Cocoa powder
  • Shredded coconut
  • Crushed cookies or graham crackers
  • Mini chocolate chips
  • Colored sprinkles

Shape Options

  • Roll into small balls for a truffle look
  • Spread into a pan, freeze, then cut into squares

History & Inspiration

This recipe comes from classic no-bake dessert traditions, popular in American home kitchens since the rise of instant pudding and whipped topping in the mid-20th century. Designed for speed, convenience, and affordability, Cool Whip desserts became a staple for busy families and festive gatherings—simple recipes that deliver big comfort and nostalgic flavor.

Benefits of This Recipe

  • No baking required
  • Budget-friendly ingredients
  • Kid-friendly and beginner-friendly
  • Quick prep (under 10 minutes)
  • Easily customizable for any occasion

Formation & Texture

Once frozen, these candies develop a light yet firm texture, similar to a frozen mousse or whipped fudge. They soften quickly at room temperature, making each bite creamy and smooth without being heavy.

Nutrition (Approximate per piece, depends on size & flavor)

  • Calories: 60–80
  • Fat: 3–4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8–10 g
  • Sugar: 6–8 g
  • Protein: 0–1 g

(Values vary by pudding flavor and portion size.)

Who Will Love This Recipe

  • Busy home cooks
  • Dessert lovers who enjoy creamy treats
  • Kids and families
  • Anyone looking for a fast, festive sweet
  • No-bake recipe fans

Conclusion

If you love easy, no-fail desserts like this, keep coming back for more of my recipes. Thank you and happy cooking!

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