Cool Whip, the popular whipped topping, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of desserts. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy treat or something more elaborate, Cool Whip can be the star ingredient in your dessert creations. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of desserts that you can make with Cool Whip, ranging from no-bake pies to layered trifles and beyond.
Classic No-Bake Desserts
No-Bake Cheesecake
A no-bake cheesecake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Using Cool Whip as part of the filling makes the cheesecake light, fluffy, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 graham cracker crust
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fruit topping or pie filling (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Pour the filling into the graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Top with fruit topping or pie filling before serving, if desired.
No-Bake Lemon Pie
This tangy and refreshing no-bake lemon pie is a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 graham cracker crust
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- Lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice, stirring until thickened.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is well combined.
- Pour the filling into the graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Garnish with lemon zest before serving, if desired.
Layered Desserts
Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
A strawberry shortcake trifle is a beautiful and delicious dessert that layers cake, strawberries, and Cool Whip for a stunning presentation.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cake or angel food cake, cut into cubes
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
- In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, layer half of the cake cubes.
- Spoon half of the strawberries over the cake cubes, followed by half of the Cool Whip.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake cubes, strawberries, and Cool Whip.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Chocolate Mint Trifle
For chocolate lovers, this chocolate mint trifle is a decadent dessert that combines layers of chocolate cake, mint pudding, and Cool Whip.
Ingredients:
- 1 chocolate cake, baked and cut into cubes
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant mint chocolate pudding mix
- 4 cups milk
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- Chocolate shavings or mint candies (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the instant mint chocolate pudding mixes with the milk according to package instructions. Let set in the refrigerator.
- In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, layer half of the chocolate cake cubes.
- Spoon half of the mint pudding over the cake cubes, followed by half of the Cool Whip.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining chocolate cake cubes, mint pudding, and Cool Whip.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or mint candies before serving, if desired.
Pies and Tarts
Chocolate Silk Pie
This rich and creamy chocolate silk pie is a chocolate lover’s dream come true, with a smooth chocolate filling topped with Cool Whip.
Ingredients:
- 1 chocolate cookie crust
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted and cooled
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- Chocolate curls or shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and melted chocolate, mixing until well combined.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Pour the filling into the chocolate cookie crust and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Garnish with chocolate curls or shavings before serving, if desired.
Key Lime Pie
A key lime pie with Cool Whip is a tangy and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 graham cracker crust
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- Lime zest (optional, for garnish)
SEE ALSO: What Desserts Can I Make with Hot Cocoa Mix
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and key lime juice, stirring until thickened.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is well combined.
- Pour the filling into the graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Garnish with lime zest before serving, if desired.
Frozen Desserts
Cool Whip Ice Cream Sandwiches
Cool Whip ice cream sandwiches are a fun and easy treat that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 oz) chocolate graham crackers
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- Mini chocolate chips or sprinkles (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Break the chocolate graham crackers in half to form squares.
- Spread a generous amount of Cool Whip on one graham cracker square and top with another square to form a sandwich.
- Roll the edges of the sandwich in mini chocolate chips or sprinkles, if desired.
- Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Cool Whip Frozen Fruit Pops
Frozen fruit pops made with Cool Whip are a refreshing and healthy treat that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- Popsicle molds and sticks
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the mixed berries, pineapple chunks, and honey or agave syrup (if using). Blend until smooth.
- Gently fold the fruit puree into the Cool Whip until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into popsicle molds and insert sticks.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or until fully frozen.
- To release the popsicles, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds.
Cakes and Cupcakes
Cool Whip Frosted Cake
Using Cool Whip as frosting makes for a light and airy cake that’s not too sweet and perfect for any celebration.
Ingredients:
- 1 box cake mix (flavor of your choice), plus ingredients needed to prepare the cake
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- Fresh fruit or sprinkles (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions and bake in two round cake pans. Let cool completely.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of Cool Whip on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining Cool Whip.
- Garnish with fresh fruit or sprinkles before serving, if desired.
Cool Whip Filled Cupcakes
Cool Whip filled cupcakes are a delightful surprise and a fun twist on traditional cupcakes.
Ingredients:
- 1 box cake mix (flavor of your choice), plus ingredients needed to prepare the cake
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- Sprinkles or chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions and bake in a muffin tin. Let cool completely.
- Using a small knife or cupcake corer, remove the center of each cupcake.
- Fill a piping bag with Cool Whip and pipe the Cool Whip into the center of each cupcake.
- Garnish with sprinkles or chocolate chips before serving, if desired.
Parfaits and Mousse
Berry Parfaits
Berry parfaits are a simple yet elegant dessert that layers Cool Whip with fresh berries and granola for a delicious treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 cup granola
Instructions:
- In a parfait glass or small bowl, layer a spoonful of Cool Whip.
- Add a layer of mixed berries, followed by a layer of granola.
- Repeat the layers until the glass is full, ending with a layer of Cool Whip.
- Garnish with a few berries or a sprinkle of granola before serving.
Chocolate Mousse
A quick and easy chocolate mousse made with Cool Whip is a decadent dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- Chocolate shavings or whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the instant chocolate pudding mix with the milk according to package instructions. Let set in the refrigerator.
- Gently fold the Cool Whip into the pudding until well combined and fluffy.
- Spoon the mousse into serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or whipped cream before serving, if desired.
Conclusion
Cool Whip is a versatile and convenient ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of desserts. From no-bake cheesecakes and pies to layered trifles and parfaits, there are countless ways to incorporate Cool Whip into your sweet treats. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert or something more elaborate, these recipes provide a starting point for creating delicious and delightful dishes with Cool Whip. Enjoy experimenting and finding new ways to use this beloved whipped topping in your dessert repertoire.
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