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These Cool Whip Cookies are one of the easiest treats you can whip up anytime you want something sweet with almost zero fuss. Just four ingredients all mixed together create soft pillowy cookies dusted in powdered sugar and bursting with strawberry flavor. I leaned on this recipe when pressed for time during a bake sale and ended up getting asked for the recipe by almost everyone who tried them.
The first time I baked these with my niece she could not believe cookies could come together with so little effort. They disappeared from the cooling rack before dinner was on the table.
Ingredients
- Strawberry cake mix: adds all the flavor and color with no need for additional flavorings or dyes I look for a cake mix with real strawberry powder if available
- Cool Whip whipped topping: is the secret to the light fluffy texture Choose Original for the best results and make sure it is fully thawed
- Large egg: helps bind everything together for perfect cookies I use farm fresh eggs for the best color and taste
- Powdered sugar: creates the signature crackle look and adds a delicate sweetness Sift before using if yours looks clumpy
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Dough:
- Combine the strawberry cake mix Cool Whip and egg in a large bowl Use a hand or stand mixer mix until a sticky dough forms and there are no dry spots The dough will look soft and fluffy
- Scoop and Coat:
- Grab a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to shape even balls of dough Drop each ball into a bowl of powdered sugar Roll gently so each is thoroughly coated in powdered sugar They shape easily by hand once coated
- Arrange and Bake:
- Place cookie dough balls on a baking sheet coated with nonstick spray Space them about one and a half inches apart to allow for spreading Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about twelve minutes The edges should be just barely turning golden
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for two or three minutes then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling These cookies are quite soft right out of the oven and will set up as they cool
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My favorite part is watching the pink and white swirl as the cookies puff up in the oven. I remember the first time my family tasted these their surprise at how rich yet light they are was unforgettable and now everyone expects a batch for every family birthday.
Storage Tips
Cool Whip Cookies stay soft for up to four days in a well sealed container at room temperature If it is humid you can layer the cookies between sheets of wax paper to prevent sticking You can freeze baked cookies in a zipper bag for up to one month
Ingredient Substitutions
Use any flavor of cake mix for variety chocolate lemon or vanilla all work beautifully Dairy free whipped topping can be swapped for Cool Whip and gluten free cake mix produces just as delicious results
Serving Suggestions
These cookies look beautiful on a dessert platter for showers brunches or birthday parties For a festive touch dip half a cooled cookie in white chocolate and sprinkle with freeze dried strawberries
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Cultural or Historical Context
Cool Whip Cookies are a classic shortcut bake originating from the time when cake mixes and convenience baking started booming in the United States They have remained popular for their bright color chewy texture and the fun of rolling dough in powdered sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for a few minutes before baking or ensure the oven is fully preheated to help cookies keep their shape.
- → Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, substitute with other cake mix varieties like chocolate or lemon for different cookie flavors and colors.
- → Do I need to thaw the Cool Whip completely?
Yes, use fully thawed Cool Whip to mix smoothly with the other ingredients for the best texture.
- → How should I store the cookies?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain softness.
- → Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, freeze baked cookies in layers separated by parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- → Why coat the dough in powdered sugar?
Rolling in powdered sugar creates a beautiful crackle appearance and adds extra sweetness to each bite.