Let’s dive into the world of effortlessly delicious cookies that are sure to become your new favorite. These Cool Whip cookies are not only incredibly easy to make but also unbelievably soft and fluffy, thanks to the secret ingredient: Cool Whip!
Why This Recipe Works
- The addition of Cool Whip creates an unbelievably light and airy texture that’s hard to achieve with traditional cookie recipes.
- With only a handful of ingredients, this recipe is perfect for last-minute baking sessions or when you’re short on time.
- These cookies are incredibly versatile, allowing for endless variations to suit any taste or occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) container of Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 large egg
- 1 box (15.25 oz) of cake mix, any flavor
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for rolling
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the parchment paper, but your cookies might spread a bit more.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed Cool Whip, egg, and cake mix. Stir until just combined; the dough will be sticky. This is normal! The stickiness is what gives these cookies their signature fluffy texture. Tip: Don’t overmix the dough, or your cookies could turn out tough.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Place the powdered sugar in a small bowl. Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop balls of dough into the powdered sugar, rolling to coat completely. This not only adds a sweet finish but also makes the dough easier to handle. Tip: For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to measure the dough.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They’ll firm up as they cool. Tip: For chewier cookies, bake for the shorter time; for crispier edges, go for the full 12 minutes.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking apart. Then, dig in and enjoy the fluffiest cookies you’ve ever tasted!
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, try adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, sprinkles, or nuts to the dough before baking. If you’re using a dark-colored baking sheet, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F to prevent overbrowning. To keep the cookies soft, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread; the cookies will absorb the moisture from the bread. For a festive touch, roll the dough balls in colored sugar instead of powdered sugar before baking.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Use chocolate cake mix and stir in chocolate chips for double the chocolate goodness.
- Funfetti Fun: Use funfetti cake mix and roll the dough in rainbow sprinkles for a party-ready treat.
- Peanut Butter Delight: Use yellow cake mix and add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the dough for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Use lemon cake mix and add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a refreshing twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
While homemade whipped cream is delicious, it doesn’t have the same stabilizers as Cool Whip, which means your cookies might not hold their shape as well during baking. For best results, stick with Cool Whip.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Why do my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies are spreading too much, it could be because your dough was too warm when you baked it. Try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before shaping and baking. Also, make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
Summary
These Cool Whip cookies are the perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness, offering a fluffy texture and endless flavor possibilities. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress.