Cool Whip substitutes
Cool Whip substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Homemade whipped cream
Same amount as the Cool Whip
Fresh whipped cream made from heavy cream and sugar.
The best substitutes for Cool Whip are homemade whipped cream, coconut whipped cream, or store-bought whipped topping.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- desserts
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Cool Whip | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Homemade whipped creamdesserts | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Coconut whipped creamvegan desserts | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Store-bought whipped toppingdesserts | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Mascarpone + heavy creamdesserts | Same amountWith equal parts mascarpone and heavy creamTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Greek yogurt + heavy creamdesserts | Same amountWith equal parts Greek yogurt and heavy creamTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Aquafaba whipped creamvegan desserts | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Homemade whipped cream
similar taste and texture
Fresh whipped cream made from heavy cream and sugar.
- Best for
- desserts, toppings, frosting, baking
Much better flavor and texture than Cool Whip. Whip heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.
Coconut whipped cream
different taste, similar texture
Dairy-free whipped cream made from coconut milk.
- Best for
- vegan desserts, dairy-free baking, toppings, frosting
Refrigerate coconut milk overnight, then whip the thick cream that separates to the top.
Store-bought whipped topping
similar taste and texture
Commercial whipped topping similar to Cool Whip.
- Best for
- desserts, toppings, frosting, quick substitution
Look for brands with better ingredients than Cool Whip. May be dairy-free or contain dairy.
Mascarpone + heavy cream
different taste, similar texture
Rich, creamy mixture with better flavor than Cool Whip.
- Best for
- desserts, toppings, frosting, baking
Mix mascarpone with whipped heavy cream for rich, creamy texture.
Greek yogurt + heavy cream
different taste, similar texture
Tangy, creamy mixture with better nutrition than Cool Whip.
- Best for
- desserts, toppings, frosting, healthy alternatives
Whip heavy cream, then fold in Greek yogurt. Adds protein and tanginess.
Aquafaba whipped cream
different taste, similar texture
Vegan whipped cream made from chickpea liquid.
- Best for
- vegan desserts, dairy-free baking, toppings, frosting
Whip aquafaba (chickpea liquid) with sugar until stiff peaks form. Very stable.
Questions
4 questionsWhat's the difference between Cool Whip and whipped cream?
Cool Whip is made from hydrogenated oils and is non-dairy, while whipped cream is made from heavy cream. Whipped cream has better flavor and texture.
Can I use Cool Whip in baking?
Yes, Cool Whip can be used in baking, but it may not hold up as well as whipped cream in high-heat applications. It's better for no-bake desserts.
Is Cool Whip dairy-free?
Yes, Cool Whip is dairy-free and made from hydrogenated oils. However, it's not a healthy alternative due to its processed ingredients.
Can I make Cool Whip at home?
You can make a similar product by whipping hydrogenated shortening with sugar and vanilla, but it's better to use real whipped cream or coconut whipped cream instead.
Tips for substituting Cool Whip
8 tips- Cool Whip is good for quick desserts and toppings
- Great for making no-bake pies and cheesecakes
- Use in trifles and layered desserts
- Cool Whip holds its shape well and doesn't deflate
- Store in the freezer and thaw in the refrigerator before using
- Cool Whip pairs well with fruit and chocolate
- Good for making frozen desserts and ice cream cakes
- Great for decorating cakes and cupcakes