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Looking for a fun, colorful, and truly irresistible way to top your favorite cakes and cupcakes? Say hello to M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting! This delightful frosting checks every box: it’s impossibly light thanks to Cool Whip, rich and creamy from a quick pudding base, and packed with playful pops of chocolate from mini M&Ms. Whether you’re prepping for a birthday, a bake sale, or just a weekday treat, this is the magic trick that instantly transforms any dessert into a celebration.

M\&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the frosting:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip (thawed)
- ¾ cup mini M&Ms, plus extra for topping
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

How to Make M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting

Step 1: Whisk the Pudding Base

Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and pouring in the instant vanilla pudding mix with one cup of cold milk. Whisk them together for about two minutes, until the mixture thickens up and forms the luscious, pudding-like base that makes M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting so wonderfully rich and smooth.

Step 2: Fold in the Cool Whip

Once your pudding is looking thick and dreamy, it’s time for the fun part: fold in the thawed Cool Whip! Use a spatula and gentle motions, mixing until everything looks silky, pale, and perfectly blended. This step is what gives the frosting its signature light, fluffy texture.

Step 3: Stir in the Mini M&Ms

Pour in those mini M&Ms and, if you love an extra hit of vanilla, add the extract too. Stir gently to avoid breaking up the candies and to keep your frosting as pillowy as possible. Now, you’ve got those pops of chocolate and vibrant color swirled throughout your M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting!

Step 4: Chill for Best Results

Transfer your finished frosting to the fridge and let it chill for at least 30 minutes before using. This quick rest helps everything set and makes spreading or piping the frosting way easier (and tidier!). Plus, it keeps the M&Ms crunchy and vivid.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

When you’re ready, grab your cooled cake, cupcakes, or cookie bars and spread a generous layer of M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting over the top. Don’t forget to shower the surface with a handful of extra mini M&Ms—this final touch adds eye-catching sparkle and gets everyone excited to dig in!

How to Serve M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting

Garnishes

For the brightest, happiest finish, sprinkle extra mini M&Ms right before serving—just enough for every bite to get a candy surprise. If you want to get a bit fancy, mini chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles make a fun addition alongside the M&Ms.

Side Dishes

A light, fresh side is always a good idea with a rich dessert. Try serving your frosted treats next to fresh strawberries, a fruit salad, or even a big glass of cold milk. These simple pairings balance the sweetness and keep dessert time feeling festive and not too heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting doesn’t need much help to steal the show, but think outside the box: pipe swirls onto cupcakes, create a checkerboard of M&Ms on a 9×13 cake, or layer the frosting with brownies and fruit in a trifle dish for a wow-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover frosting should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to three days—just give it a gentle stir before using again, and if you notice any bleeding from the M&Ms, add a fresh sprinkle right before serving for that just-made look.

Freezing

While Cool Whip-based frostings generally freeze well, the M&Ms can lose their signature crunch and color vibrance in the freezer. If you do need to freeze, scoop the frosting into a container and leave off the M&Ms until after thawing. Thaw slowly in the fridge, then stir in fresh candies before serving.

Reheating

No reheating required for M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting (one of the many reasons it’s such a lifesaver!). If your frosting is a bit too firm from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes and stir gently until it’s soft and spreadable again.

FAQs

Can I use a different pudding flavor?

Absolutely! While vanilla is classic, you can try chocolate, white chocolate, or even butterscotch pudding mix for a delicious twist in your M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting. Each flavor brings something fun and new to the party.

Do I have to use Cool Whip?

Cool Whip is key for the signature light, airy texture, but you can swap in stabilized whipped cream if you prefer homemade options. Just make sure whatever you use can hold up in the fridge without deflating.

Will the M&Ms bleed into the frosting?

If mixed in too far ahead, M&Ms may start to release their colors. For the best look, fold them in right before serving, or only sprinkle them on top as a garnish to keep everything bright and cheerful.

Can I use regular M&Ms instead of minis?

Mini M&Ms work best for easy mixing and a perfect candy-to-frosting ratio, but you can certainly chop regular M&Ms or use them whole for extra crunch and color. The choice is yours!

Is this frosting sturdy enough for piping?

Yes, M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting holds up beautifully for piping simple swirls and borders, especially after a good chill. For more intricate designs, chill it well and use a wider piping tip for smooth results.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the magic of M&Ms Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting. It’s fast, fun, and always the first thing to disappear at parties! Next time you need a quick dessert upgrade, give this frosting a try. I promise—friends, family, and kiddos of all ages will beg for the recipe. Enjoy every colorful, creamy bite!