Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy: The Ultimate Simple Dessert

If you are searching for a dessert that requires minimal effort, zero oven time, and delivers maximum satisfaction, you’ve hit the jackpot. This recipe for Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy creates decadent, melt-in-your-mouth confections that rival expensive bonbons or traditional fudge. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; with just three staple ingredients Cool Whip, instant pudding mix, and powdered sugar you can whip up a batch of these soft, chewy treats in mere minutes.

This simple recipe is not just easy; it’s an opportunity for pure culinary creativity. The base is simple, allowing the flavor of the instant pudding mix to shine through, transforming these little dough balls into anything from creamy cheesecake bites to rich chocolate truffles. Perfect for busy weeknights, holiday platters, or impromptu gatherings, the Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy recipe is about to become your new go-to for effortless entertaining. All that’s required is mixing, rolling, and a few hours of essential chilling time.

Whether you’re a novice baker (or perhaps, a novice non-baker!) or a seasoned dessert enthusiast, you will appreciate the simplicity and flexibility of this winning formula. Get ready to roll up your sleeves but leave your oven mitts packed away as we dive into the simplest candy recipe you will ever encounter. These chewy, fudge-like balls are truly the definition of sweet simplicity.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy

The dessert landscape is vast, but very few recipes strike the perfect balance between taste, simplicity, and versatility. The Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy recipe achieves this delicate balance effortlessly, making it a beloved treat for families, event planners, and anyone craving a sweet fix without the fuss. The reason people instantly fall in love with these little treasures is multifaceted, combining ease of preparation with a uniquely appealing texture.

The Magical Fudge-Like Texture

Unlike standard cookies or brittle, these candies offer a luxurious, soft chewiness akin to homemade fudge or classic bonbons. The combination of Cool Whip, which provides lightness and creamy fat content, and the binding power of confectioners’ sugar, results in a dough that is unbelievably smooth. Once chilled, the powdered sugar stabilizes the whipped topping, creating a dense, yet still yielding, interior. This satisfying texture is a huge draw they aren’t hard, brittle, or sticky; they are perfectly pliable and rich. For those who enjoy treats like cake batter fudge or soft truffles, this is the ideal substitute that requires even less cooking knowledge.

Unmatched Flavor Versatility

The true genius of the Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy lies in its simple flavor customization. The instant pudding mix isn’t just a thickener; it’s the core flavor agent. This means one base recipe can generate dozens of distinct flavor profiles. Imagine a classic vanilla candy one day, a bright lemon poppyseed the next, or a rich dark chocolate the following week. You are limited only by the varieties of instant pudding mix available. This makes the recipe exciting to repeat, as you can constantly experiment without ever changing the fundamental technique. Children especially love choosing their favorite pudding flavor for their batch, turning the preparation into a fun, collaborative activity.

Speed and Simplicity Redefined

In today’s fast-paced world, time is a precious commodity. Traditional candy-making often involves complex steps, temperature regulation, and high heat. This recipe bypasses all that. With only 15 minutes of hands-on time, you can have the entire batch ready for chilling. The simplicity of needing just a bowl and a mixer (or even just a sturdy spoon) makes cleanup a breeze. When you need a quick dessert for a potluck or an easy treat to satisfy a craving, this recipe delivers immediate results, leaving the hard work (the setting) to the refrigerator.

Ideal for All Seasons and Events

Because there is no baking involved, these no-bake candies are absolutely perfect for summer. You won’t heat up your kitchen, making them a fantastic alternative to cookies or cakes during warm weather. Conversely, they are also wonderfully festive for holiday platters. Roll them in red and green sprinkles for Christmas, or use pistachio pudding for a bright green St. Patrick’s Day treat. Their sturdy, small size makes them excellent for gifting, packing into lunch boxes, or serving alongside coffee after dinner.

Truly, the combination of creamy texture, endless flavor options, and the effortless preparation makes the Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy a recipe that moves immediately from the cookbook to the regular rotation.

The Undeniable Reasons to Try This Simple Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy

Beyond the delightful taste and texture, there are practical reasons why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your collection. It addresses common dessert dilemmas, offering solutions for time constraints, budget limitations, and varying skill levels.

Perfect for Beginner Cooks and Kids

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by complex baking recipes, this no-fail candy recipe is the ideal starting point. There are no finicky measurements (beyond the core three ingredients), no yeast to worry about, and no chance of burning anything. The process involves simple mixing and rolling tasks that are perfect for involving children in the kitchen. Kids love the sensory experience of kneading the dough and rolling the final balls in powdered sugar or colorful sprinkles. This recipe is a confidence booster, guaranteeing delicious results even for those who claim they “can’t cook.”

Budget-Friendly Indulgence

Candy store treats and gourmet fudge can be expensive, especially when entertaining a crowd. This recipe uses extremely affordable, readily available grocery items. Cool Whip, instant pudding mix, and powdered sugar are staples found in every supermarket, often available in bulk or on sale. Making a large batch of approximately 40 candies costs significantly less than buying comparable gourmet sweets. This makes the Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy an excellent choice for large parties, bake sales, or simply keeping your sweet tooth satisfied without breaking the bank.

A Fantastic Make-Ahead Dessert

One of the biggest struggles of hosting is managing time on the day of an event. These Cool Whip candies are designed to be made ahead. In fact, they require it! Since they need a minimum of four hours to chill, they can easily be prepared a day or two in advance. This frees up your oven and valuable counter space for other dishes, allowing you to focus on savory items or main courses while your dessert patiently sets in the refrigerator. Their excellent shelf life (up to 5 days in the fridge) means zero last-minute stress.

Naturally Free of Gluten with Easy Adaptations

For those managing dietary restrictions, this recipe is a lifesaver. Most major brands of instant pudding mix (especially the standard flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and butterscotch) are inherently gluten-free, and Cool Whip is also typically gluten-free. Always check the labels to be certain, but generally, this recipe offers a delicious, indulgent dessert that is safe for individuals avoiding gluten. Furthermore, the simple base allows for incredibly easy experimentation with other popular no-bake ingredients, such as crushed Oreo fudge or graham crackers if you want to change the coating, offering flexibility for multiple dietary needs.

Portion Control Built-In

Since the Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy is rolled into small, bite-sized balls (usually 1/2 to 1 teaspoon in size), they offer excellent built-in portion control. This is ideal for those who want a small taste of something sweet without committing to a large slice of cake or an entire candy bar. These little treats satisfy the craving perfectly, providing a rich burst of flavor in a manageable serving size.

The combination of convenience, cost-effectiveness, and the sheer joy of creating a delicious, customizable confection makes trying this Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy an absolute necessity for any dessert lover.

Mastering the Ingredients and Essential Equipment for Success

The simplicity of the Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy relies entirely on the quality and preparation of its three key components. While the list is short, understanding the function of each ingredient is essential for achieving the perfect dough consistency the only hurdle in this otherwise foolproof recipe.

Deep Dive into the 3 Core Ingredients

1. Frozen Whipped Topping (Cool Whip), Thawed

• Quantity: 1 (8-ounce) container.
• Function: The whipped topping serves as the creamy, fatty base that holds the entire candy together. Unlike traditional heavy cream which might separate or weep when mixed with dry ingredients, pre-stabilized whipped toppings like Cool Whip provide necessary structure and airiness.
• Preparation is Key: It is absolutely crucial that the whipped topping is completely thawed before use. Thawing should be done slowly in the refrigerator (not on the counter or in the microwave). If the whipped topping is still partially frozen, the final dough will be lumpy, uneven, and potentially too wet once the ice crystals melt.
• Substitutions: While Cool Whip or similar frozen whipped toppings are recommended for their stability, you may substitute with high-quality, non-dairy coconut whipped topping for a vegan variation. However, you may need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar slightly, as coconut-based whips often hold less moisture than the standard dairy-based product.

2. Instant Pudding Mix (Dry)

• Quantity: 1 (3.4-ounce) package.
• Function: The instant pudding mix provides two essential roles: flavor and thickening/binding. The cornstarch and other stabilizers in the dry mix quickly absorb moisture from the thawed whipped topping, initiating the transformation into a moldable dough.
• The Flavor Profile: Remember, the flavor of the candy is entirely dependent on the pudding mix you select.
• Recommended Flavors for Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy:
  • Classic: Vanilla, Chocolate, Butterscotch.
  • Fruity/Bright: Lemon, Cheesecake, Strawberry (if using a dry mix).
  • Gourmet: Pistachio (creates a beautiful green color), White Chocolate, Coconut.
• Important Note: Ensure you use instant pudding mix, not the cook-and-serve variety. Cook-and-serve mixes do not contain the fast-acting thickeners necessary for this no-bake application and will result in a wet, unusable batter. Do not add the milk or water called for on the pudding box; use the dry mix only!

3. Confectioners’ Sugar (Powdered Sugar)

• Quantity: 3 to 4 cups, plus extra for rolling.
• Function: This is the structure builder. Powdered sugar (which contains a small amount of cornstarch) absorbs residual moisture and ensures the dough becomes firm and workable. It is what transforms the fluffy whipped topping into a candy dough that holds its shape.
• The Critical Addition: The 3 to 4 cup range is provided because the exact amount needed can vary based on the humidity in your kitchen, the brand of whipped topping used, and how thoroughly the topping was thawed. Always add the sugar gradually. You must continue mixing until the dough is stiff enough to handle without excessive stickiness.
• Why not Granulated Sugar? Granulated sugar will not dissolve properly into the cold mixture and will create a grainy texture. Confectioners’ sugar is essential for both binding the dough and providing the smooth coating.

Recommended Kitchen Tools for Optimal Results

While this recipe is simple, having the right equipment ensures a seamless process, especially when tackling the mixing phase. You don’t need highly specialized tools, but a few basics will improve your results significantly.

• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for incorporating the powdered sugar without making a massive mess. Start with a bowl larger than you think you need!
• Electric Hand Mixer (Highly Recommended): While a strong wooden spoon or sturdy whisk can work for the initial ingredients (Cool Whip and pudding mix), incorporating the powdered sugar into the thick dough is hard work. An electric hand mixer (or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment) makes the process fast, effortless, and ensures the sugar is evenly distributed, leading to a perfectly consistent dough.
• Parchment Paper-Lined Baking Sheet: Crucial for the chilling step. The parchment paper prevents the fresh, sticky candies from adhering to the pan, ensuring easy removal once they are set. Wax paper is also an acceptable alternative.
• Small Cookie Scoop or Measuring Spoon (1/2 to 1 teaspoon): Using a small, consistent scoop ensures that all your Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy are uniform in size. This not only looks professional but guarantees they all set up at the same rate. For achieving that classic, small bonbon size, aim for about a 1/2 teaspoon measure.
• Small Bowl or Plate: Used specifically for holding the extra confectioners’ sugar coating, allowing for quick, clean rolling.

By preparing these simple ingredients and having your equipment ready, you set the stage for success and are just moments away from creating your delicious, customized no-bake treats.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy

The instructions for this Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy are deceptively straightforward. The key to perfection lies in paying close attention to the consistency in Step 2. Follow these detailed steps to guarantee a batch of firm, delicious, and perfectly set candies.

Step 1: Combine the Creamy Base

1. Thaw the Whipped Topping: Before you even open the package, ensure the entire container of frozen whipped topping is completely thawed. This usually takes 4 to 6 hours in the refrigerator. Do not rush this step, as frozen crystals will compromise the final dough consistency.
2. Start Mixing: In your large mixing bowl, scoop out the entire 8-ounce container of thawed whipped topping.
3. Add the Flavor: Sprinkle the entire dry instant pudding mix (3.4 ounces) over the whipped topping.
4. Mix Thoroughly: Using your electric hand mixer set to medium speed, or a sturdy spoon/whisk, mix these two ingredients until they are fully incorporated. The mixture should become a uniform color (e.g., pale yellow for vanilla, brown for chocolate, etc.) and be completely smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure all the dry powder is mixed in.

This initial mixture will be soft and fluffy it is not yet the candy dough. This is just the flavored, creamy base that will anchor your Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy.

Step 2: Achieving the Ideal Dough Consistency

This step is where the magic happens and requires patience and a good eye for texture. The goal is to transform the fluffy mix into a very stiff, non-sticky dough.

1. Start the Sugar Addition: Measure out 3 cups of confectioners’ sugar. Begin adding the sugar to the whipped topping mixture, about one cup at a time.
2. Mix Gradually: Start your mixer on the lowest speed possible (or mix slowly with a spoon) to prevent the powdered sugar from clouding your kitchen. Once the sugar is slightly absorbed, increase the mixer speed to medium-high.
3. Monitor the Texture: As the sugar is incorporated, the mixture will thicken dramatically. It will move from a loose batter to a soft dough, and eventually, to a thick, firm mass.
4. Test for Readiness: Continue mixing until the dough is so thick that it pulls away from the sides of the bowl and starts to gather around the beaters (or your spoon).
5. Crucial Consistency Check: Stop the mixer and touch the dough lightly. If it is still very sticky and leaves a lot of residue on your fingers, it needs more sugar.
6. Adjusting the Dough: If needed, add the remaining 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, a few tablespoons at a time, mixing well after each addition. You must stop adding sugar immediately once the dough becomes stiff, firm, and easy to handle. It should feel similar to modeling clay or firm peanut butter cookie dough. This firm consistency is non-negotiable for a successful Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy.

Pro Tip: If your hands or spoon still look wet and heavily coated after touching the finished dough, add more powdered sugar. If the dough is too soft, the finished candy will flatten or collapse during chilling. This stage is similar to making simple peanut butter balls, ensuring that the mixture is stiff enough to handle without sticking excessively, much like rolling classic 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls.

Step 3: Shape and Coat the Candies

Now comes the fun, hands-on part! Ensure your parchment-lined baking sheet is ready.

1. Prepare Coating: Pour about ½ cup of extra confectioners’ sugar onto a small plate or shallow bowl.
2. Scoop Portions: Use your small cookie scoop or measuring spoon to scoop out consistent portions of the firm dough. Aim for about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per candy.
3. Roll Firmly: Roll each portion quickly and firmly between your palms to create smooth, round balls. If the dough starts to warm up and become sticky, take a short break or lightly coat your hands in powdered sugar.
4. Coat Immediately: As soon as each ball is shaped, drop it into the reserved powdered sugar coating. Roll it around until the entire surface is generously covered.
5. Place and Repeat: Transfer the finished, coated candies onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave a small amount of space between each piece.

Step 4: The Essential Chill Time and Storage

1. Chill Time: Once all the candies have been shaped, place the baking sheet into the refrigerator.
2. Setting the Texture: Chill the candies for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally, overnight. The chilling process is absolutely critical. It allows the starches in the pudding and the sugar to fully stabilize the fats in the whipped topping, transforming the soft dough into the firm, satisfying candy texture we are aiming for.
3. Storage: Store the finished Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Layer the candies separated by sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
4. Freezing Option: These candies freeze beautifully! Place the chilled candies in a freezer-safe, airtight container (again, separated by parchment). They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them briefly at room temperature or overnight in the fridge before serving. For more great ideas on freezing desserts, check out my Pinterest board: Quick & Easy Dessert Recipes.

Tips, Troubleshooting, and Flavor Variations

While the recipe for Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy is simple, a few common issues can arise. Knowing how to troubleshoot and how to expand your flavor repertoire will make you a candy-making pro.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

Mistake: My dough is too sticky and hard to roll.

• Solution: The dough is too soft and needs more structural support. Gradually incorporate more confectioners’ sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough is firm and pulls cleanly from your hands. This is the most common reason for failure; always err on the side of too much sugar rather than too little.

Mistake: The candies flattened out while chilling.

• Solution: This means the dough was insufficiently stiff before chilling (see sticky dough solution above). There is no quick fix once they are chilled and flat, but you can try re-rolling them after they have been out of the fridge for about 20 minutes, then re-chill them very quickly. In the future, ensure the dough is stiff enough to easily maintain a round shape before it hits the chilling tray.

Mistake: The texture is grainy.

• Solution: You may have used granulated sugar by mistake, or the instant pudding mix was not thoroughly combined before the powdered sugar was added. Ensure the base mix is perfectly smooth and all dry ingredients are dissolved as much as possible before proceeding.

Creative Coating Options

While the classic powdered sugar coating is beautiful, you can greatly enhance the appeal and flavor of your Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy by switching up the exterior finish:

• Shredded Coconut: Toasted or plain, this adds a chewy texture. Excellent with cheesecake or coconut-flavored pudding.
• Melted Chocolate: Dip the chilled candies completely into melted milk, dark, or white chocolate. Let the chocolate set on parchment paper. This creates a true bonbon experience.
• Finely Chopped Nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or peanuts add a savory crunch.
• Crushed Cookies: Roll the balls in finely crushed graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or chocolate cookies for a crunchy crust.
• Cocoa Powder: For a sophisticated, less sweet finish, roll the chocolate-flavored candies in unsweetened cocoa powder.

Flavor and Dietary Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to incorporate extracts or mix-ins before shaping the dough:

• Mint Chocolate Chip: Use chocolate pudding, and add 1/2 teaspoon of mint extract and 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips to the finished dough. Roll in green sprinkles.
• Birthday Cake: Use vanilla or cheesecake pudding, add a teaspoon of clear vanilla extract (for flavor), and mix in 2 tablespoons of rainbow sprinkles into the dough. Roll the finished candies in more sprinkles.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Use vanilla pudding, and swirl in 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter once the dough is formed (before the last cup of sugar is added). This works best if you enjoy treats like old-fashioned peanut butter fudge.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace the standard Cool Whip with a stable coconut or soy-based frozen whipped topping. Ensure your instant pudding mix is dairy-free (most are, but always check the label). The consistency might require slightly less powdered sugar.

Nutritional Insights and Serving Benefits

As with any sweet confection, the Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy is designed to be an indulgent treat. While we can’t provide laboratory-tested nutritional information, we can break down the components and provide estimated values and context for consumption.

Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Candy)

Given that the recipe yields approximately 40 small candies, the nutritional values below are estimations based on typical ingredients (standard vanilla pudding and regular Cool Whip). Please note that using different flavors of pudding (especially those containing nuts or extra flavoring) or alternative coatings will change these values.

Understanding the Ingredients’ Roles

The primary caloric source in this Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy comes from the combination of high-fructose corn syrup/oils found in the whipped topping and the simple carbohydrates/sugar in the pudding mix and confectioners’ sugar.

The Role of Whipped Topping

Cool Whip is a stabilized emulsion primarily composed of water, vegetable oils (often coconut or palm kernel), corn syrup, and thickeners. It provides the necessary fat content and creamy mouthfeel that makes these candies taste rich and luxurious. Using a light or fat-free version of whipped topping may slightly reduce the fat content, but it may also require you to add slightly more powdered sugar to compensate for the lost stability and firmness, thus keeping the overall calorie count relatively similar.

The Benefit of Instant Pudding

The instant pudding mix, beyond delivering flavor, acts as a powerful binder due to its high starch content. Starches are complex carbohydrates that, when hydrated and then chilled, help create a dense, stable structure. This is what allows the candy to hold its perfect ball shape without collapsing.

Serving Recommendations and Portion Control

The main “benefit” of this Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy is that it offers portion-controlled indulgence. Because the candies are small, one or two pieces satisfy a sweet craving without the large caloric intake associated with bigger desserts. These are ideal treats for moderate enjoyment.

For those seeking to reduce overall sugar, ensure you use sugar-free instant pudding mixes and consider using less powdered sugar in the coating phase, or simply roll them in unsweetened cocoa powder instead.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy

Conclusion: Your New Favorite No-Bake Treat

The journey through making Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy proves that some of the most satisfying desserts are often the simplest to create. This recipe is truly a testament to culinary ease, delivering a delightful, chewy, fudge-like confection using just three affordable ingredients and absolutely no oven time. It’s the perfect solution for urgent dessert needs, kitchen novices, or those hot summer days when turning on the oven is unthinkable.

We’ve covered everything from mastering the crucial dough consistency (remember: when in doubt, add more powdered sugar!) to exploring exciting flavor possibilities using any instant pudding mix imaginable. Whether you opt for a bright, tangy lemon candy or a deep, rich chocolate version, the result is always a decadent, beautifully presented treat that is ready to impress.

Now that you have the complete guide to creating the ultimate Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy, it’s time to get mixing! We encourage you to try a batch today, experiment with a fun new pudding flavor, and share your results. If you loved this quick and easy recipe, please share it with friends and family who appreciate simple, delicious desserts. Don’t forget to leave a comment below letting us know which pudding flavor you chose!

EASY 3-INGREDIENT NO-BAKE COOL WHIP CANDY

This simple recipe creates soft, chewy candies that taste similar to creamy fudge or bonbons, requiring absolutely no baking or oven time. It uses just three core ingredients and sets up perfectly after chilling.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 40 candies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 55

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 container (8-ounce) frozen whipped topping (such as Cool Whip) Must be fully thawed in the refrigerator.
• 1 package (3.4-ounce) instant pudding mix Any flavor: vanilla, chocolate, cheesecake, or pistachio are excellent choices.
• 3 to 4 cups confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar) Plus extra for rolling/coating.

Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Electric Hand Mixer
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie Scoop (small)

Method

 

Step 1: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. Thaw the container of whipped topping completely in the refrigerator before beginning. This ensures the best consistency for mixing.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire container of thawed whipped topping and the dry instant pudding mix.
3. Using an electric hand mixer set to medium speed, or a sturdy spoon, mix the two ingredients together until they are fully combined and the mixture is uniform in color. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 2: Form the Candy Dough

1. Measure out 3 cups of confectioners’ sugar and add it gradually to the whipped topping mixture. Mix slowly at first to prevent the sugar from flying out, then increase the speed or mixing effort.
2. Continue mixing until the mixture transforms from a loose, fluffy consistency into a thick, firm dough. The mixture should be stiff enough that it pulls away from the sides of the bowl and can be handled easily without sticking excessively to your fingers.
3. If the dough is still sticky after adding the initial 3 cups of sugar, add the remaining 1 cup, a little at a time, until the desired firm, workable consistency is achieved. The consistency must be very stiff before chilling.

Step 3: Shape and Coat the Candies

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place about ½ cup of extra confectioners’ sugar onto a small plate or shallow bowl for coating.
2. Use a small cookie scoop or measuring spoon (about ½ teaspoon to 1 teaspoon size) to scoop out uniform portions of the candy dough. Roll each portion firmly between your palms to create smooth, round balls.
3. Immediately roll the finished ball in the reserved confectioners’ sugar until it is fully coated. Place the finished candies onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Once all the candies have been shaped and coated, place the baking sheet into the refrigerator. Chill the candies for a minimum of 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until they are firm and set. This step is essential for developing the characteristic 'candy' texture.
2. Store the finished Cool Whip Candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These candies can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw briefly before serving.

Notes

Pudding Mix Flavor: The flavor of the instant pudding mix is the dominant flavor of the final candy. Experiment with fun flavors like butterscotch, lemon, or banana cream for different results.

Coating Options: Instead of powdered sugar, try coating the candies in shredded coconut, finely crushed graham crackers, or drizzle them with melted chocolate after chilling for a dipped candy look.

Consistency Check: If the dough is sticky or too soft, the finished product will not hold its shape. Always add more powdered sugar if the dough feels too wet.