Sugar Free Cool Whip Cookies

Hi, I’m Anna. Cooking has always been my way of connecting with people I care about—it’s where love and food come together. My sister and I made these Sugar Free Cool Whip Cookies, and it was pure chaos—me focused, her covered in powdered sugar and laughter. The cookies turned out perfectly imperfect. Cook it and tell me — who’s the better chef in your family?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Sugar Free Cool Whip Cookies are irresistible for so many reasons. They come together fast, use minimal ingredients, and are forgiving enough for even beginner bakers. Because you’re using a sugar-free cake mix, you can easily customize them for any seasonthink lemon for spring, chocolate for cozy winter days, or strawberry for Valentine’s treats. They’re soft, chewy, and melt-in-your-mouth good, with just the right amount of sweetness. If you’re watching your sugar intake or following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, these cookies let you enjoy dessert without compromise.

Ingredients

Sugar Free Cake Mix – This is your base and your flavor! Lemon, chocolate, or vanilla all work beautifully.
Whipped Topping (Sugar Free or Low Sugar Cool Whip) – Adds that light, fluffy texture and gentle sweetness. Make sure it’s the tubbed, frozen kind that’s been softened slightly.
Sugar Free Powdered Sugar – For rolling the dough balls to get that signature “crinkle” look and a touch of extra sweetness.
Optional: Egg – Helps make the cookies more dense and chewy if you like a firmer texture.

How to Make Sugar Free Cool Whip Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the sugar-free cake mix to break up any lumps. Add in the whipped topping and stir until the ingredients are just combined. The dough will be sticky—that’s totally normal! If it feels too sticky to handle, pop it in the fridge for about 15 minutes to firm up a little.

Step 3: Form the Cookie Dough Balls

Scoop small portions of dough using a cookie scoop or spoon. Roll each portion between your hands to form a ball, then gently roll it in sugar-free powdered sugar until it’s evenly coated. This step gives the cookies their signature crinkled appearance once baked.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Place each dough ball about two inches apart on your prepared baking sheet to allow for spreading. Bake for 10 minutes if you prefer a soft, chewy cookie or up to 12 minutes for a slightly crisp edge. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges start to turn golden and the tops crack beautifully.

Step 5: Cool and Set

Once baked, let the cookies rest on the sheet for about 10 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma of freshly baked cookies will fill your kitchen—it’s hard to resist sneaking one warm from the tray!

Expert Tip

Rolling the dough in powdered sugar isn’t required, but it gives that classic crinkle effect and adds a subtle sweetness. You can skip it if you prefer a plainer look or less sweetness.

Cultural or Technique Note

These cookies are a fun twist on classic crinkle cookies, a style that’s been loved for generations for its soft center and cracked, sugar-dusted exterior. The use of Cool Whip and cake mix makes this version a modern shortcut, keeping that nostalgic homemade charm but with less effort and no added sugar. It’s a perfect example of how simple baking can still taste like home.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy with a Warm Beverage

Serve these Sugar Free Cool Whip Cookies with a cozy cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. Their light texture and gentle sweetness make them the perfect afternoon pick-me-up or after-dinner treat.

Add to a Holiday Dessert Platter

These cookies look stunning alongside festive desserts. Their crinkled tops and powdered sugar coating make them sparkle on any Christmas or party table, adding both flavor and charm.

Make Ice Cream Sandwiches

Take two cookies and place a small scoop of sugar-free ice cream in between. Press gently and freeze for a few minutes for a cool, creamy mini dessert that feels indulgent without the sugar.

Sprinkle Over Yogurt or Pudding

Crumble a few cookies over sugar-free pudding, mousse, or Greek yogurt. It adds crunch, sweetness, and a playful twist to your regular snack or breakfast.

Gift Them with Love

Wrap a few cookies in parchment paper or place them in a decorative tin for a thoughtful homemade gift. They keep beautifully and make a sweet gesture for neighbors, teachers, or friends.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use the Right Whipped Topping

Always go for softened, tubbed whipped topping (like Cool Whip) — not canned. The canned type won’t hold structure and can cause the cookies to flatten.

2. Don’t Overmix

Once the ingredients come together, stop mixing. Overmixing can make the dough dense and tough instead of light and airy.

3. Chill Sticky Dough

If the dough feels sticky, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes. Chilling makes it easier to roll and helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

4. Space Out the Cookies

These cookies naturally spread in the oven. Leave at least two inches between each dough ball on your baking sheet to avoid them merging together.

5. Experiment with Flavors

This recipe works with nearly any sugar-free cake mix. Try lemon for brightness, chocolate for richness, or strawberry for something playful and colorful.

6. Cool Completely Before Storing

Let cookies cool fully on a rack before stacking them in a container. This prevents moisture buildup and keeps the texture soft, not sticky.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Whipped Cream

Canned whipped cream breaks down quickly under heat. Always stick to tubbed frozen whipped topping for reliable results.

Overbaking

Check your cookies around the 10-minute mark. They should be soft in the center and lightly golden at the edges — that’s what keeps them chewy.

Skipping the Chill Step

Sticky dough is harder to roll and can spread too much while baking. A short chill time makes all the difference.

Crowding the Baking Sheet

Give your cookies room to breathe! Space them well to help them bake evenly and develop that signature crinkle pattern.

Using Too Much Powdered Sugar

While tempting, overcoating can overpower the delicate flavor. Roll each dough ball lightly a dusting is all you need.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

Place cookies in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezer Storage

For longer keeping, freeze the cookies in an airtight bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating Tips

If you prefer your cookies warm, microwave them for 8–10 seconds or let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. This brings back their soft, chewy texture perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply choose a gluten-free sugar-free cake mix. You’ll get the same great texture and flavor without gluten.

Q2: Can I make them keto-friendly?

: Absolutely. Use a keto-friendly cake mix and low-carb whipped topping — most sugar-free versions already fit keto macros nicely.

Q3: Do I have to use powdered sugar on the outside?

: Not necessarily. It gives the cookies that signature “crinkle” look, but if you prefer a plain surface or less sweetness, skip it.

Q4: Can I use different cake mix flavors?

: Definitely! Lemon, chocolate, vanilla, red velvet, and strawberry are all delicious options. You can even mix in a bit of extract or food coloring for fun.

Q5: Why are my cookies spreading too much?

: That usually means your dough was too warm. Chill it for about 20 minutes before baking to help the cookies keep their shape.

Closing Paragraph

These Sugar Free Cool Whip Cookies are proof that easy can still be delicious. With their soft texture, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness, and endless flavor possibilities, they’re a perfect addition to your sugar-free baking rotation. Whether for a quick weeknight treat or a festive holiday platter, these cookies will bring joy without the sugar crash. Try different cake mix flavors, share them with friends, and enjoy the sweet simplicity of homemade baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about turning just three simple ingredients into something that feels special and comforting. I love how these cookies fill the kitchen with warmth and the kind of sweetness that doesn’t need sugar to shine. If you’re short on time but craving something cozy, this is the recipe to keep close.