Cool Whip Cookies: Easy Recipe & Delicious Variations

Introduction

Cool Whip cookies are light, fluffy, and melt in your mouth, offering a magical treat that’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that you can whip up in no time. Made with just a handful of ingredients, including the beloved Cool Whip, they are versatile, customizable, and perfect for any occasion.

From their simplicity to their unique texture, Cool Whip cookies have been winning hearts in kitchens everywhere. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about them—from their origins and benefits to step-by-step recipes and creative variations. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of Cool Whip cookies!

What Are Cool Whip Cookies?

Cool Whip cookies are a type of dessert made using Cool Whip, a popular whipped topping, as one of the main ingredients. Combined with cake mix and eggs, this unlikely trio creates a cookie dough that bakes into soft, pillowy cookies. Their unique texture is thanks to the aerated nature of Cool Whip, which adds fluffiness without the need for additional butter or oil.

These cookies are not just about ease; they’re also endlessly versatile. You can adapt the recipe with different flavors of cake mix, sprinkle in some extras like chocolate chips or nuts, and create cookies that suit your taste or the season.

The History of Cool Whip in Baking

Cool Whip has been a staple in American kitchens since its introduction in 1966 by Kraft Foods. Originally created as a convenient whipped topping for desserts, it quickly became a favorite for home bakers looking to add a creamy, fluffy texture to their creations.

As time went on, bakers began experimenting, incorporating Cool Whip into everything from pies to mousses. The idea of using it in cookie recipes emerged as a brilliant shortcut—its whipped texture and sweet flavor made it an ideal ingredient for easy, soft-baked cookies. Today, Cool Whip cookies stand as a testament to culinary creativity, marrying simplicity with delicious results.

Why Choose Cool Whip Cookies?

Cool Whip cookies are loved for many reasons, but their appeal boils down to three key factors:

1. Simplicity

With just three primary ingredients—Cool Whip, cake mix, and eggs—you can whip up these cookies in minutes. No need for extensive measuring or complex techniques, making it an ideal recipe for beginners and busy bakers alike.

2. Versatility

The variety of flavors you can achieve is astounding. Whether you prefer classic vanilla, rich chocolate, or something festive like red velvet or lemon, there’s a version of Cool Whip cookies for everyone. Add-ins like sprinkles, chocolate chips, or nuts can further personalize your treats.

3. Time-Saving

Unlike traditional cookie recipes that may involve creaming butter and sugar or waiting for dough to chill, Cool Whip cookies are straightforward. Mix, scoop, and bake—your cookies are ready in under 30 minutes!

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Essential Ingredients for Cool Whip Cookies

One of the best things about Cool Whip cookies is their short and simple ingredient list. Let’s take a closer look at the key components that bring these cookies to life:

1. Cool Whip

The star of the recipe, Cool Whip, is a light and fluffy whipped topping that adds both texture and sweetness. Its airy consistency helps create cookies that are soft and tender.

2. Cake Mix

Cake mix serves as the dry ingredient, eliminating the need to measure flour, sugar, or leavening agents separately. The flavor of the cake mix determines the base flavor of your cookies, making it a versatile choice. Popular options include:

  • Vanilla
  • Chocolate
  • Lemon
  • Funfetti
  • Red Velvet

3. Eggs

Eggs act as a binder, holding the ingredients together while contributing to the cookies’ structure.

4. Optional Add-Ins

While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, you can elevate your cookies by incorporating extra ingredients, such as:

  • Chocolate Chips: For a classic twist.
  • Sprinkles: Add a fun, colorful touch.
  • Nuts: Almonds or walnuts provide crunch.
  • Zest or Extracts: Lemon zest or vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Cool Whip Cookies

Here’s the ultimate foolproof recipe for making Cool Whip cookies:

Ingredients

  • 1 box of cake mix (any flavor)
  • 1 tub (8 oz) of Cool Whip, thawed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, Cool Whip, and egg. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Prepare for Rolling: Place the powdered sugar in a shallow dish. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls using lightly floured hands. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
  4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  5. Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops have a crinkled appearance.
  6. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

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Variations on Cool Whip Cookies

One of the greatest perks of Cool Whip cookies is their flexibility—you can adapt the recipe to fit any occasion or personal taste. Here are some popular variations to try:

1. Chocolate Chip Cool Whip Cookies

Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough before rolling. These cookies combine the softness of Cool Whip cookies with the classic appeal of chocolate chip treats.

2. Funfetti Celebration Cookies

Use Funfetti cake mix to create colorful cookies perfect for birthdays or parties. Enhance the fun by mixing extra sprinkles into the dough or sprinkling some on top before baking.

3. Seasonal Favorites

  • Pumpkin Spice: Use a spice cake mix and add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a warm, autumnal flavor.
  • Peppermint Delight: Choose chocolate cake mix, and fold in crushed peppermint candies for a festive holiday twist.
  • Lemon Zing: Use lemon cake mix, and add fresh lemon zest for a tangy, refreshing cookie.

4. Red Velvet Cool Whip Cookies

Swap in red velvet cake mix for a vibrant cookie that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day or other special occasions. Drizzle with cream cheese glaze for an extra indulgent touch.

Easy Fudge Recipe: Rich, Creamy, and Simple to Make – Complement your Cool Whip Cookies with a batch of creamy fudge.

Tips for Perfect Cool Whip Cookies

To ensure your cookies turn out beautifully every time, keep these tips in mind:

1. Prevent Stickiness

Cool Whip dough is notoriously sticky. To handle it more easily, chill the dough for 15–20 minutes before rolling. Lightly coat your hands with flour or non-stick spray when shaping the cookies.

2. Achieve the Perfect Shape

For evenly shaped cookies, use a cookie scoop. This ensures uniform sizes, which helps the cookies bake evenly.

3. Do Not Overbake

Cool Whip cookies are meant to be soft. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are set, even if the centers appear slightly underbaked—they will firm up as they cool.

4. Coat Generously in Powdered Sugar

A thick coating of powdered sugar ensures that the cookies develop their signature crinkled appearance as they bake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like Cool Whip cookies, a few common pitfalls can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Overmixing the Dough

Cool Whip dough is delicate. Overmixing can cause the cookies to become dense instead of light and fluffy. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.

2. Skipping the Powdered Sugar

The powdered sugar isn’t just for aesthetics—it helps to reduce stickiness and contributes to the cookies’ unique texture. Always coat the dough balls generously before baking.

3. Baking at the Wrong Temperature

Cool Whip cookies bake quickly at 350°F (175°C). If your oven runs hot or cold, use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking. Incorrect temperatures can lead to cookies that spread too much or bake unevenly.

4. Not Letting the Cookies Cool Properly

Cool Whip cookies are soft and delicate when they come out of the oven. Allow them to rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to prevent breakage.


Storage and Shelf Lif

Cool Whip cookies taste best fresh but can be stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep them soft and flavorful:

1. Room Temperature Storage

  • Place cookies in an airtight container with layers separated by wax or parchment paper.
  • They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.

2. Refrigeration

For a slightly longer shelf life, refrigerate the cookies in a sealed container. They’ll keep for about a week but may lose some softness.

3. Freezing Cool Whip Cookies

  • Freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
  • To freeze unbaked dough, roll it into balls and freeze them on a tray. Once firm, store the dough balls in a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to enjoy Cool Whip cookies with a lighter twist, there are a few easy swaps and tweaks to make them healthier without sacrificing flavor.

1. Use a Sugar-Free Cake Mix

Opt for a sugar-free cake mix to reduce the sugar content while still enjoying the same great taste. Many brands offer sugar-free options in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and lemon.

2. Swap for Light or Sugar-Free Cool Whip

Light or sugar-free versions of Cool Whip are excellent substitutes for the original. They contain fewer calories and less sugar, making them a guilt-free option.

3. Incorporate Whole Grains

Mix in a small amount of oat flour or whole wheat flour (about 1/4 cup) to the dough to add a boost of fiber. This works best with hearty flavors like chocolate or spice cake.

4. Natural Sweeteners

If you’re avoiding processed sugar, try using a natural powdered sugar substitute like monk fruit or stevia for rolling the cookies.

5. Add Nutrient-Rich Ingredients

Enhance the cookies with nutrient-dense add-ins like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or finely chopped nuts for added texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Cool Whip cookies are versatile and pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here’s how to serve them for maximum enjoyment:

1. Classic Pairings

  • Milk: A tall glass of milk is the quintessential partner to these soft and sweet cookies.
  • Coffee or Tea: Pairing Cool Whip cookies with a warm beverage enhances their delicate texture and flavor.

2. As Part of a Dessert Platter

Combine Cool Whip cookies with other small treats like brownies, fruit tarts, or chocolate truffles for a stunning dessert spread.

3. Themed Presentation for Events

  • Holiday Cookies: Decorate with festive sprinkles or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
  • Gift-Wrapped Treats: Place cookies in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for an easy and thoughtful gift.

4. Ice Cream Sandwiches

Use two cookies to sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Roll the edges in sprinkles, nuts, or mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Cool Whip Cookies for Special Occasions

Cool Whip cookies are perfect for celebrations and gatherings. Here’s how you can customize them for various occasions:

1. Birthday Parties

  • Use a Funfetti cake mix to create colorful cookies.
  • Add extra sprinkles to the dough and top with a light glaze for an eye-catching dessert.

2. Holidays

  • Christmas: Use red velvet or chocolate cake mix and decorate with green and red sprinkles. For a wintery touch, drizzle with white chocolate.
  • Easter: Lemon Cool Whip cookies with pastel-colored sprinkles or icing make a cheerful addition to any Easter celebration.
  • Halloween: Use orange and black sprinkles or candies for spooky-themed cookies.

3. Weddings and Showers

For elegant events, use light-colored cake mixes like vanilla or lemon. Dust the cookies with powdered sugar or edible glitter for a sophisticated touch.

4. Gift Giving

Cool Whip cookies are easy to package and make thoughtful gifts. Arrange them in a decorative tin or clear bag tied with a ribbon. Include a small card with the recipe for an extra-special touch.

FAQs cool whip cookies

1. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Cool Whip has a specific texture and stability that homemade whipped cream may not replicate. For best results, stick to Cool Whip or a similar store-bought whipped topping.

2. What’s the best way to prevent dough from sticking?

Chill the dough for 15–20 minutes before handling it. Use powdered sugar or lightly flour your hands to make rolling easier.

3. Can I use oil instead of eggs?

While eggs provide structure, you can substitute them with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water.

4. Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Spreading often occurs if the dough is too warm or sticky. Chilling the dough and ensuring the oven temperature is accurate will help the cookies hold their shape.

5. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are ready when the edges are set, and the tops have a crinkled appearance. Avoid overbaking—they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

6. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, roll the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months.

Learn about Cookie Crumble for creative dessert inspirations, or discover how to make 3-Ingredient Biscuits as an alternative quick recipe.

Conclusion cool whip cookies

Cool Whip cookies are a true gem in the world of quick and easy baking. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create soft, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious treats that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to whip up something for a party, satisfy your sweet tooth, or impress your guests, Cool Whip cookies are the ultimate go-to recipe.

From classic variations to creative twists, these cookies can be tailored to fit your taste and the season. By following the tips and tricks in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of Cool Whip cookies. So, grab your favorite cake mix, a tub of Cool Whip, and get baking—it’s time to enjoy some sweet, crinkly goodness!

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A stack of freshly baked raspberry white chocolate cookies with chunks of white chocolate and raspberries on a dark plate.

Cool Whip Cookies Recipe


  • Author: Admin
  • Total Time: 20-22 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

Description

Soft, fluffy Cool Whip Cookies made with cake mix, eggs, and powdered sugar; a quick, delightful treat for everyone!


Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

  • 1 box of cake mix (any flavor)
  • 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, Cool Whip, and egg. Mix until well blended; the dough will be sticky.
  3. Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Scoop small spoonfuls of dough, roll them into balls, and coat them thoroughly in powdered sugar.
  4. Arrange the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the cookies are slightly golden.
  6. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Notes

  • Flavor Variations:
    Use different cake mix flavors (e.g., chocolate, lemon, or red velvet) to create various cookie flavors.
  • Sticky Dough:
    The dough will be sticky. Using a small cookie scoop can make handling easier.
  • Chill for Easier Handling:
    For less sticky dough, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before rolling.
  • Powdered Sugar Coating:
    Ensure the cookies are well-coated in powdered sugar for the signature crackled appearance.
  • Storage:
    Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer freshness.
  • Customization:
    Add sprinkles, chocolate chips, or nuts to the dough for a fun twist.
  • Baking Tip:
    Don’t overbake! The cookies will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: ~90
  • Sugar: ~10g
  • Sodium: ~90mg
  • Fat: ~3g
  • Saturated Fat: ~2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g