Fluffy Vanilla Cool Whip Pie is a dreamy, no-bake dessert that’s cool, creamy, and irresistibly light. With a vanilla pudding base blended with marshmallow creme and whipped topping, this pie delivers a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for any occasion—from potlucks to holidays or casual weeknight desserts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-bake and quick to prepare with minimal effort
- Ultra-creamy and fluffy texture that’s light and satisfying
- Sweet, mellow vanilla flavor that pairs well with any topping
- Great for making ahead of time
- Kid-friendly and a crowd-pleaser for all ages
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Instant vanilla pudding mix
- Cold milk
- Marshmallow creme (or fluff)
- Cool Whip (thawed)
- Cream cheese, softened
- Vanilla extract
- Graham cracker pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: fresh berries, whipped cream, or shaved white chocolate for garnish
Directions

- Make the Pudding Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2–3 minutes until it begins to thicken. - Blend the Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. - Combine Mixtures
Fold the pudding into the cream cheese mixture until well blended. Gently fold in the Cool Whip to keep the mixture light and fluffy. - Fill the Crust
Spoon the fluffy mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula. - Chill
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until set and fully chilled. - Serve
Garnish with your choice of toppings like berries, additional whipped topping, or white chocolate shavings before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Twist: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a different flavor
- Fruit-Infused: Add sliced strawberries or bananas between layers for added freshness
- Crust Options: Try an Oreo or shortbread crust for variety
- Mini Pies: Divide the filling among mini graham cracker crusts for individual servings
- Holiday Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for seasonal flair
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze the whole pie or slices in an airtight container for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before serving
- Do Not Reheat: This pie is served chilled and is not suitable for heating
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly less stable. Use stabilized whipped cream if possible.
What if I only have cook-and-serve pudding?
Cook-and-serve pudding won’t set the same way for this recipe—instant pudding is best.
Can I use a homemade graham cracker crust?
Absolutely. A homemade crust adds a delicious, buttery flavor.
Is it necessary to use marshmallow creme?
Marshmallow creme gives the pie its signature fluffiness, but you can omit it for a simpler texture.
How long does this pie last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for about 4–5 days when stored properly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for making a day in advance and chilling until ready to serve.
Can I add fruit directly into the filling?
Yes, but use firm fruits like berries or sliced bananas and fold them in gently.
Will the pie firm up enough to slice cleanly?
Yes, after chilling, the pie will slice easily with a clean knife.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to divide evenly between two crusts or use a larger pie dish.
Is this pie overly sweet?
No, it’s lightly sweet with a mellow vanilla flavor that isn’t overpowering.
Conclusion
Fluffy Vanilla Cool Whip Pie is a refreshingly simple dessert that combines creamy texture with a light, vanilla sweetness. This no-bake pie is incredibly easy to prepare and always a hit at gatherings or as a treat at home. With its airy consistency and make-ahead convenience, it’s the perfect go-to dessert for any occasion.
PrintFluffy Vanilla Cool Whip Pie
Fluffy Vanilla Cool Whip Pie is a light and creamy no-bake dessert made with vanilla pudding and whipped topping in a buttery graham cracker crust — perfect for a quick, crowd-pleasing treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
- Optional: whipped cream and sprinkles for topping
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until well combined and fluffy.
- Spoon the mixture into the graham cracker crust and smooth the top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Top with additional whipped cream and sprinkles before serving, if desired.
Notes
- For a firmer pie, freeze for 1–2 hours before serving.
- Use sugar-free pudding and light Cool Whip for a lighter version.
- Try different pudding flavors like chocolate or banana for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg