Imagine it’s a sunny weekend afternoon, the kind that calls for a backyard gathering or an impromptu celebration with friends. You’ve got your favorite cake cooling on the counter, and now comes the fun part—making it unforgettable. Enter: M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting, a creamy, dreamy, and colorful topping that transforms any dessert into a playful masterpiece.
This recipe was inspired by those nostalgic childhood moments—think birthday parties filled with laughter, plastic cups of punch, and the unmistakable crunch of M&Ms. It brings back memories of scooping Cool Whip straight from the tub when Mom wasn’t looking or licking the spoon after stirring pudding for a weeknight dessert. Combining those beloved textures and flavors, this frosting is both a tribute to the past and a modern-day crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re preparing for a bake sale, a birthday bash, or just want to treat yourself, this frosting is your ticket to something special. Plus, it’s easy enough for beginner bakers and fun enough to make with kids. Ready to get started?
Why You’ll Love This M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting
This isn’t your average frosting. It’s lighter than buttercream, more flavorful than whipped cream alone, and a guaranteed conversation starter. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes with just a few ingredients.
- Kid-Friendly: Both in preparation and presentation—those colorful M&Ms do wonders!
- No Butter, No Fuss: No beating butter or sifting powdered sugar—just mix, fold, and frost.
- Versatile: Perfect for cupcakes, sheet cakes, layer cakes, or even as a dip.
- Customizable: Use seasonal M&Ms for different holidays or mix in your own favorite candies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this vibrant and delicious frosting, you’ll need just a handful of pantry staples and a bit of creativity.
- 1 package of instant vanilla pudding mix
(3.4 oz size is perfect. Make sure it’s the instant kind, not cook-and-serve.) - 2 cups milk
(Whole milk is best for creaminess, but 2% works too.) - 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
(Let it thaw in the fridge—not on the counter—for best results.) - 1 cup M&Ms (plus extra for topping)
(Use original or experiment with peanut, mini, or themed varieties.) - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Adds a warm, comforting undertone.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Pudding
In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and 2 cups of cold milk. Use a whisk to blend until smooth and lump-free. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes, giving it time to thicken.
Pro Tip: Chilling the bowl before mixing helps the pudding set faster, especially on warm days.
2. Fold in the Cool Whip
Once the pudding is thickened, gently fold in the Cool Whip using a spatula. This step is key—folding instead of stirring keeps the texture light and airy.
Why fold and not stir? Stirring can deflate the whipped topping, making the frosting too dense. Folding maintains that luscious fluffiness.
3. Add Vanilla for Depth
Stir in the teaspoon of vanilla extract. It’s a small touch that brings balance to the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
4. Mix in M&Ms
Next, fold in one cup of M&Ms. This is where the magic happens! The M&Ms provide a delightful crunch and bursts of chocolatey color in every bite.
Variation Tip: Swap M&Ms for chopped Oreos, sprinkles, or crushed peppermint candies depending on the season.
5. Frost Your Cake or Cupcakes
Spread the frosting over your cooled cake or cupcakes using a spatula or butter knife. Don’t worry about perfection—this frosting is all about fun and flair!
6. Decorate with Extra M&Ms
Top your frosted dessert with additional M&Ms for that iconic rainbow look. Press them in gently so they don’t roll off.
Make it special: Use themed M&Ms for holidays—red and pink for Valentine’s Day, pastels for Easter, or orange and black for Halloween.
Optional: Chill for Firmer Texture
If you prefer a firmer frosting or plan to transport your dessert, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes slicing easier.
Fun Ways to Use This Frosting
This frosting is more than just a cake-topper—it’s a dessert game-changer. Here are a few creative ideas:
- Cupcake Bar: Set up a DIY frosting station with bowls of toppings and let guests decorate their own cupcakes.
- Layered Dessert Cups: Alternate layers of crushed cookies, pudding frosting, and fruit in a clear cup for a no-bake parfait.
- Dip It: Serve it as a sweet dip with graham crackers, pretzels, or fresh strawberries.
- Frosted Brownies: Spread it over a pan of cooled brownies and top with M&Ms for the ultimate chocolate treat.
Tips for the Perfect M&Ms Pudding Frosting
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can break down the Cool Whip, making the frosting runny.
- Use Cold Milk: Helps the pudding set faster and better.
- Thaw Cool Whip in the Fridge: Thawing at room temperature can cause it to become watery.
- Apply to Cooled Cakes Only: If your cake or cupcakes are still warm, the frosting will melt and slide off.
- Serve Chilled for Best Texture: Especially helpful if you’re making it ahead for a party.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Don’t Freeze: Due to the M&Ms and whipped topping, freezing isn’t recommended—it can affect the texture and color.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the frosting up to a day in advance. Just give it a gentle stir before using.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, you can substitute 3 cups of homemade stabilized whipped cream. However, Cool Whip offers more stability, especially for warm events or outdoor parties.
Can I use sugar-free pudding?
Absolutely! If you’re cutting back on sugar, use a sugar-free pudding mix and opt for reduced-sugar M&Ms if available.
Will the M&Ms bleed into the frosting?
Over time, especially if stored too long, the candy shell can start to melt and bleed color. To avoid this, fold in M&Ms just before serving and always store chilled.
Can I pipe this frosting?
This frosting is soft and best suited for spreading. If you want to pipe it, chill it first and use a large round tip for simple designs.
The Final Verdict: A Must-Make Dessert Favorite
There’s something undeniably joyful about this M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting. It’s cheerful, tasty, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned baker looking to try something new, this recipe adds whimsy and wow to any occasion.
It’s a hit with kids, adored by adults, and looks as good as it tastes. So next time you’re frosting a cake or dressing up cupcakes, skip the store-bought tub and whip up this playful, party-ready treat instead.