We all have had it happen: you are making a dessert, and you forgot to thaw the Cool Whip container. I created this guide for how to thaw frozen cool whip fast because it has happened to me several times, and I want to share with you what I have learned.

Learn how to quickly and easily thaw Cool Whip for dessert recipes. I’ll share some expert tips, methods, and FAQs about Cool Whip that will make your dessert preparation a breeze.

An opened tub of Cool Whip Zero Sugar frozen topping is alongside a piping bag filled with whipped topping, resting on a white plate. A pink and white-striped dish towel and a pink spatula are also arranged on a light-colored surface.
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How To Thaw A Cool Whip Container Fast

So many times, I’m ready to make this Cool Whip Frosting, my No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Jello Pie, or my No-Bake Strawberry Angel Food Cake, and I realize I forgot to thaw my Cool Whip container overnight in the fridge. I have learned that quickly thawing a Cool Whip container can be tricky. That’s why I’m here to help with several ways to thaw a Cool Whip container quickly.

How To Thaw A Frozen Cool Whip Container

Overnight Thawing in the Refrigerator

  • One of the best ways to thaw Cool Whip is to plan ahead and use the refrigerator method. Place the Cool Whip in the Fridge: Keep the container sealed and place it in the refrigerator.1 Container Cool Whip
  • Allow it to thaw overnight or for about 4-5 hours. Before using, give it a gentle stir to ensure it’s fully thawed.
A 12-pack carton of large eggs, a tub of Cool Whip Zero Sugar whipped topping, and a box of guacamole mini cups are stored on a refrigerator shelf. The Cool Whip container displays blueberries and whipped topping on the label.

How To Thaw Cool Whip In Microwave

For a quick thaw, the microwave can be used, but it requires careful attention:

  • Place the Cool Whip in a microwave-safe bowl. Using the defrost setting, defrost in short bursts for 20-second intervals. Stir between each interval to prevent overheating.
Tub of Cool Whip Zero Sugar sitting on a microwave tray. The microwave door is open, revealing the control panel with various settings and options visible. The Cool Whip container features a blue and purple design with a scoop of whipped topping on the lid.

Thawing in Cold Water

Thawing Cool Whip in cold water is an effective method when you need it quickly but want to avoid using the microwave.

  • Place the Cool Whip container in a resealable plastic bag to prevent water from entering.
  • Fill a large bowl or sink with cold water (not warm water) and submerge the bagged Cool Whip.
  • Change the water every 15 minutes to keep it cold. It should take about 30-60 minutes to thaw completely.
A container of Cool Whip Zero Sugar whipped topping sits in a white mixing bowl. The bowl is lined with a red and white striped kitchen towel and a plastic bag's blue zipper is visible next to the Cool Whip. The background is light gray.

Thawing on the Countertop

  • If you’re short on time, thawing Cool Whip on the countertop is a fast method. Set the sealed container on the counter. It should take about 1-2 hours to thaw completely.
  • Once thawed, stir it gently to achieve the desired consistency.
A tub of Cool Whip Zero Sugar is partially opened next to a piping bag filled with whipped topping, a light blue plate with a dollop of whipped cream and a strawberry, and a red-striped cloth. Nearby is a white dish containing several strawberries.

Expert Tips for Thawing Cool Whip

  • Avoid Refreezing: Once thawed, do not refreeze Cool Whip as it can affect texture and quality.
  • Store Properly: Keep Cool Whip refrigerated after thawing and use it within 1-2 weeks for best results.
  • Gentle Stirring: Always stir gently to maintain the fluffy texture.
  • Use a Clean Spoon: Prevent contamination by using a clean spoon each time you scoop.
Are there any alternatives to Cool Whip?

Yes! If you don’t have Cool Whip or prefer a homemade option, you can easily make your own whipped cream. Try this 3-step homemade whipped cream recipe for a fresh and delicious substitute.

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An open tub of Cool Whip Zero Sugar has a small amount of whipped cream scooped out and placed in a piping bag on a white oval dish. A wooden spoon with a pink spatula end rests on a pink and white towel nearby. The background is a light, textured surface.
by Gina Dickson

How to Quickly Thaw A Frozen Cool Whip Container

Servings: 1 container
Learn the fastest and safest ways to thaw frozen Cool Whip for your favorite desserts. Get tips, quick methods, and FAQs to make dessert prep stress-free.

Note: Be sure to read through the recipe’s post for tips and details about this recipe.

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Ingredients
 

  • 1 Container Cool Whip

Instructions
 

Overnight Thawing in the Refrigerator

  • Place the Cool Whip in the Fridge: Keep the container sealed and place it in the refrigerator.
    1 Container Cool Whip
  • Allow it to thaw overnight or for about 4-5 hours. Before using, give it a gentle stir to ensure it's fully thawed.

How To Thaw Cool Whip In Microwave

  • Microwave in Short Bursts: Place the Cool Whip in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on the defrost setting for 20-second intervals. Stir between each interval to prevent overheating.
    1 Container Cool Whip
  • Continue until the Cool Whip is soft but not melted.

Thawing in Cold Water

  • Place the Cool Whip container in a resealable plastic bag to prevent water from entering.
    1 Container Cool Whip
  • Fill a large bowl or sink with cold water (not warm water) and submerge the bagged Cool Whip.
  • Change the water every 15 minutes to keep it cold. It should take about 30-60 minutes to thaw completely.

Thawing on the Countertop

  • If you’re short on time, thawing Cool Whip on the countertop is a fast method. Set the sealed container on the counter. It should take about 1-2 hours to thaw completely.
    1 Container Cool Whip
  • Once thawed, stir it gently to achieve the desired consistency.

Equipment

Author: Gina Dickson
Intentionalhospitality.com content and photographs are copyright-protected. Sharing this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited. Please view my photo use policy here.
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FAQs about Thawed Cool Whip

How long does Cool Whip last once thawed? Once thawed, Cool Whip should be stored in the refrigerator and used within 1-2 weeks.

Can you refreeze Cool Whip after opening? Refreezing Cool Whip after opening is not recommended as it can lose its texture and consistency.

What can I use as a substitute for Cool Whip? Homemade whipped cream, whipped topping mixes, or stabilized whipped cream can be used as substitutes.

Recipes Using Thawed Cool Whip

I encourage you to keep Cool Whip stocked in your freezer for usiing in quick and easy desserts. Here are some of my favorites.

Decadent Lemon Jello Poke Cake

Dreamy No-Bake Strawberry Angel Food Cake

No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Jello Pie
A container of Cool Whip Zero Sugar is shown, resting on a white surface next to a pink spatula and a towel with red stripes. A whipped cream dispenser with a nozzle and some whipped cream is on a plate beside the container. The text reads, "How to Thaw Cool Whip In a Hurry!.