As I strolled through the farmers’ market under the bright summer sun, I caught a whiff of strawberries that stopped me in my tracks. It inspired me to whip up a delightful batch of Cool Whip Cookies, perfect for those warm days filled with laughter and sunshine. These cookies, boasting a light lemon flavor topped with airy strawberry frosting, are not only a breeze to make but also offer a sweet escape from those heavy desserts that can weigh you down. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create tender, pillowy treats that are ideal for spontaneous gatherings or a light afternoon snack. Who wouldn’t want to surprise their loved ones with these? So, are you ready to dive into this deliciously fun recipe?
Why are Cool Whip Cookies a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies come together in no time, making it easy for anyone to impress friends and family. Light and Airy: The combination of fluffy Cool Whip and fresh strawberries gives a delightful texture that’s perfect for warm days. Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap out the lemon cake mix or experiment with different toppings; the possibilities are endless! Quick Dessert: In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. You might also enjoy the unique flavors of Ferrero Rocher Cookies or the delectable Neiman Marcus Cookies for another tasty option!
Cool Whip Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Lemon Cake Mix – The foundation of these Cool Whip Cookies, offering sweetness and structure.
• Egg – One large egg binds everything together beautifully for a soft texture.
• Cool Whip (16 ounces, thawed, divided) – Adds creaminess and a lightness to the cookie; any whipped topping can be used as a substitute.
• Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup) – A sweet coating that enhances both flavor and visual appeal.
For the Strawberry Frosting
• Strawberry Gelatin (4 tbsp, dry powder) – Infuses the frosting with a fun fruity flavor and vibrant color; adjust to taste or substitute with fresh strawberry puree for a unique twist.
• Fresh Strawberries (2 cups, diced) – Fresh toppings that provide a burst of flavor and color; swap for your favorite berries if desired.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cool Whip Cookies
Step 1: Prep & Mix
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot. In a large mixing bowl, blend the lemon cake mix, one large egg, and all of the thawed Cool Whip together. Use an electric mixer to whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes, creating a sticky, cohesive cookie dough.
Step 2: Form Cookies
Scoop out generous portions of the sticky dough using a one-inch cookie scoop. Roll each scoop into a ball, coating it thoroughly with powdered sugar for a sweet outer layer. Place the sugar-coated dough balls on a parchment-lined cookie sheet, spacing them about ½ inch apart to allow for spreading as they bake.
Step 3: Bake
Carefully transfer the cookie sheet to your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set but the centers are still soft, creating that perfect pillowy texture. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare Frosting
While the cookies cool, it’s time to whip up the fluffy strawberry frosting. In a medium bowl, combine the remaining Cool Whip with the dry strawberry gelatin. Mix it well using a spatula or whisk until the frosting is light, airy, and fully blended—this should take about 1-2 minutes for the best texture.
Step 5: Frost & Decorate
Once your Cool Whip Cookies are completely cool, it’s time to frost! Spread a generous layer of the strawberry frosting over each cookie, ensuring an even coat. For an extra touch of freshness, top the frosted cookies with diced fresh strawberries, creating delightful bites that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Make Ahead Options
These Cool Whip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats with minimal last-minute fuss. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the lemon cake mix, egg, and Cool Whip. Once mixed, refrigerate the dough in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent the dough from becoming too sticky. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the dough in powdered sugar, then follow the baking instructions. For optimal quality, frost the cookies just before serving to ensure the frosting remains light and fluffy. By prepping these cookies ahead of time, you’ll have a refreshing dessert ready to impress your guests with ease!
How to Store and Freeze Cool Whip Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This way, they stay soft and delicious without drying out.
Fridge: Store any leftover cookies in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain their freshness while preventing them from getting too soft.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies without frosting for up to 2 months. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to avoid sticking.
Reheating: If desired, thaw frozen Cool Whip Cookies overnight in the fridge before serving, or enjoy them straight from the freezer for a surprisingly delightful treat!
What to Serve with Cool Whip Cookies
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance the refreshing flavors of these cookies.
- Iced Tea: The crispness of iced tea provides a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the cookies and refreshes your palate.
- Lemonade: A classic summer beverage, lemonade’s zingy acidity can beautifully balance the sugary bites of these Cool Whip Cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a fresh brightness to the meal while complementing the strawberry and lemon notes.
- Peach Sorbet: This light and fruity dessert keeps the summer vibes going, enhancing the cookie’s flavors without overwhelming sweetness.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream against the fruity frosting creates a delightful texture combination that’s hard to resist.
- Sparkling Water: For a refreshing non-sweet option, sparkling water with a splash of citrus rejuvenates the taste buds between bites of cookies.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecakes offer a rich, creamy contrast that works well against the lightness of the Cool Whip Cookies.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These petite treats add a touch of elegance and deliciousness, harmonizing with the cookies’ flavors.
- Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso provides a comforting finish and enhances the cookie’s citrusy notes.
Expert Tips for Cool Whip Cookies
• Thorough Thawing: Ensure the Cool Whip is fully thawed to achieve a smooth texture in your cookie dough—if it’s too icy, the cookies may not rise properly.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft and slightly underbaked in the centers for that ideal chewy texture.
• Scoop with Care: Use a cookie scoop to manage the sticky dough easily, minimizing mess and ensuring uniformly sized cookies for even baking.
• Creative Frosting Options: Feel free to experiment with different flavored gelatins for the frosting; raspberry or peach can add a fun twist to your Cool Whip Cookies.
• Chill for Flavor: Let the frosted cookies chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving; this helps set the frosting and enhances the flavors.
Cool Whip Cookies Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookies to make them even more special!
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Flavor Swap: Change the lemon cake mix to vanilla or butter for a different base flavor. This subtle alteration can create entirely new cookie experiences.
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Frosting Fun: Instead of strawberry gelatin, use raspberry or cherry for your frosting. It’ll add a unique flavor profile that’ll surprise your taste buds.
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Berry Boost: Swap out diced strawberries for blueberries or diced peaches as toppings. These fruits bring their own vibrant colors and flavors to the mix.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the Cool Whip with a non-dairy whipped topping for a dairy-free version. This ensures everyone can enjoy the cookies without missing out.
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Add Textures: Incorporate crushed nuts or toffee bits into the cookie dough for added crunch. The contrast between the softness of the cookies and a crunchy element is wonderful!
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Cocoa Twist: Add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cookie dough for a chocolate-flavored version. The combo of chocolate and strawberry will be a hit, especially with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
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Heat Things Up: For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the cookies. It creates an unexpected flavor that will delight adventurous eaters.
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Festive Touch: For seasonal treats, add holiday-themed sprinkles to the frosting. They make for a fun and playful twist, perfect for celebrations!
These variations perfectly complement our original recipe for these delightful Cool Whip Cookies. And if you’re looking for more unique treats, check out our loved Neiman Marcus Cookies or give our Malted Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies a try!
Cool Whip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ingredients for my Cool Whip Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose a lemon cake mix that’s fresh and has no dark spots or signs of age. For Cool Whip, make sure it’s fully thawed but isn’t close to expiring. If an egg is included, opt for large eggs for consistency in texture.
How should I store leftover Cool Whip Cookies?
Very easy! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, move them to the fridge for 3-4 days; just seal them well to keep them soft and fresh.
Can I freeze Cool Whip Cookies?
Absolutely! For freezing, do this: freeze the cookies without frosting for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them into a freezer-safe container, layering them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough is too sticky to handle, sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on your hands and the dough to help form into balls more easily. You could also chill the dough for 15-30 minutes to make it easier to scoop and roll.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! If you’re serving these cookies to others, remember that they contain eggs and may not be suitable for vegans or those with egg allergies. For gluten-free options, check for gluten-free cake mixes and other substitutes.
How can I add more flavor to the frosting?
Certainly! To enhance the frosting flavor, try mixing in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or substituting part of the strawberry gelatin with fresh strawberry puree. This adds a dash of freshness and elevates the delightful fruity taste!
Delicious Cool Whip Cookies with Strawberry Bliss Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, blend the lemon cake mix, one large egg, and all of the thawed Cool Whip together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Scoop out generous portions of the sticky dough using a one-inch cookie scoop. Roll each scoop into a ball and coat with powdered sugar. Place on a parchment-lined cookie sheet, spacing them about ½ inch apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and centers are soft. Let cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- In a medium bowl, combine the remaining Cool Whip with the dry strawberry gelatin. Mix until light and airy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Once cooled, frost each cookie with the strawberry frosting and top with diced fresh strawberries.
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