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Easy 3-Ingredient No-Bake Cool Whip Candy

Whip up this incredibly simple, vibrant, and fluffy candy using only 3 main ingredients—perfect for quick desserts, holidays, or party treats that require no baking. This recipe requires minimal active time and sets up firm in the refrigerator.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 30 pieces
Calories 85 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Rubber spatula
  • 9x5 Inch Loaf Pan (or 8x8 square pan)
  • Parchment paper

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 8 ounce container frozen whipped topping (such as Cool Whip) Thawed slightly but still very cold and firm.
  • 1 3 ounce box flavored gelatin mix Any flavor (e.g., Cherry, Strawberry, Lime).
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar) For mixing into the candy base.
  • 1/2 cup extra confectioners’ sugar For coating the finished candies.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture Base

  • In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the slightly thawed whipped topping and the entire box of flavored gelatin mix.
  • Use a rubber spatula to fold the ingredients together until the gelatin powder is fully incorporated and the mixture is evenly colored throughout. Do not overmix, as this will deflate the whipped topping.
  • Slowly add the 1 cup of measured confectioners’ sugar to the mixture. Continue to gently fold the mixture until the powdered sugar is completely blended in and the mixture begins to thicken considerably. The resulting candy batter should be thick, sticky, and vibrant in color.

Step 2: Chill and Set

  • Line a 9x5 inch loaf pan or an 8x8 inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring there is a generous overhang on the sides to use as handles.
  • Transfer the candy mixture into the prepared pan and use the rubber spatula to spread it into an even layer. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Chill the mixture for a minimum of 6 to 8 hours, or preferably overnight, until fully firm and set.

Step 3: Cut and Coat the Candy

  • Once fully set, use the parchment paper overhang to carefully lift the block of candy out of the pan and place it on a clean cutting board.
  • Using a sharp knife dipped in hot water (and wiped dry) between cuts, slice the block into small, bite-sized squares or rectangles (approximately 1-inch pieces).
  • Pour the extra 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar onto a shallow plate. Take each piece of cut candy and gently roll it in the powdered sugar until it is completely coated on all sides. Place the finished candies on a platter or plate lined with fresh parchment paper.

Step 4: Storage

  • Store these candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to one week when properly refrigerated. For longer storage, the candies can be frozen for up to 2 months; allow them to thaw slightly before serving if frozen.

Notes

For the best texture and clean cuts, ensure the candy mixture is chilled for the full 8 hours or overnight. Experiment with different gelatin flavors like orange or grape for holiday-themed colors. If using an 8x8 pan, the candies will be slightly thinner than if using a loaf pan.
Keyword 3-ingredient, candy, cool whip, easy, fluffy, gelatin, no-bake