If you’re chasing a sweet treat that tastes just like a nostalgic candy bar, is endlessly shareable, and only takes three simple ingredients, then Cool Whip Candy Delight is about to shoot straight to the top of your dessert list. This is that magical kind of recipe you want to keep in your back pocket: it delivers all the creamy-chocolaty joy of a candy shop favorite, but with just a quick prep, a little chill time, and no fancy equipment required. The result? Bite-sized squares with a cloud-soft center and a snappy chocolate shell—pure candy bliss ready to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cool Whip Candy Delight is how attainable, familiar ingredients transform into something show-stopping. Each component plays a special role: rich chocolate forms the backbone, Cool Whip gives the candy its signature pillowy texture, and chocolate almond bark adds that irresistible glossy coating.
- Semi-sweet baking bars (12 ounces): These guarantee deep, fudge-like chocolate flavor and a perfectly smooth, meltable base for your candy filling.
- Frozen whipped topping, thawed (8 ounces): Cool Whip is the key to a cloudlike, creamy center—it makes every bite light yet decadent.
- Chocolate almond bark or candy coating (24 ounces): This melts into a velvety chocolate shell that sets beautifully and stays glossy even out of the fridge.
How to Make Cool Whip Candy Delight
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch straight-sided baking pan with parchment paper, leaving plenty draping over the sides. This not only helps the candy filling chill evenly, but also makes removing the set filling a breeze later. A little prep here goes a long way toward those perfectly squared, Instagram-worthy treats.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
Add the broken pieces of semi-sweet baking bars into a large mixing bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir to kickstart the melting. Continue heating in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely smooth and glossy. If you’re not a microwave fan, the double boiler works great too—just don’t let any water sneak into your chocolate!
Step 3: Whip up the Candy Center
Fold the thawed Cool Whip gently into your melted chocolate. This is where things get dreamy: the two combine into the signature mousse-like center of Cool Whip Candy Delight. Use a hand mixer for quickest results, blending for about 1–2 minutes until everything is beautifully silky and airy. Scrape down the bowl to make sure not a bit of chocolate is missed.
Step 4: Chill the Filling
Scoop the chocolate-Cool Whip mixture into your lined pan and use a small offset spatula to smooth it into an even, luscious layer. Then, fold the parchment over the top and pop it into the freezer for an hour. This step helps the candy firm up so you can slice perfect squares later without sticking or squishing.
Step 5: Slice Like a Pro
Once chilled and set, lift the slab of filling out using the parchment overhang. With a sharp knife, cut it into 6 long strips, then halve each strip, and finally cut each half into three pieces—you’ll end up with 36 neat squares. Tip: run your knife under hot water, wipe clean, and repeat as needed to keep your slices tidy. The candy softens quickly, so work fast if your kitchen is warm!
Step 6: Keep Candy Chilled
After cutting, slip those squares back into the freezer so they stay firm while you prep the chocolate coating. This trick helps the candy keep its shape when dipping, resulting in a smooth, even finish.
Step 7: Melt and Dip in Almond Bark
Chop or break your chocolate almond bark into pieces and melt in a microwave-safe bowl. Start with a minute on high, stir, then continue in 30-second spurts until glossy and pourable. Now for the fun: dip each cold square of Cool Whip Candy Delight into the melted bark using a fork, letting excess drip away. Slide the chocolate-coated piece onto a parchment-lined baking sheet with a second fork or toothpick, and repeat until all are coated.
Step 8: Chill and Enjoy
Give the finished candies a final chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes so the chocolate sets with a crisp snap. Now, savor your patience. You’ve crafted a candy shop-worthy treat, ready for sharing or sneaking from the fridge late at night!
How to Serve Cool Whip Candy Delight
Garnishes
For a fancy flair, sprinkle your freshly-dipped candies with a dusting of flaky sea salt, crushed nuts, or rainbow sprinkles before the chocolate fully sets. Even just a zigzag of white chocolate or edible gold dust will wow your guests and add extra texture, making your Cool Whip Candy Delight look absolutely show-stopping on any dessert plate.
Side Dishes
Pair these candies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a bowl of fresh strawberries for a truly indulgent dessert platter. They’re delicious with a hot cup of coffee or served alongside a creamy liqueur for a grown-up treat. Their sweet, chocolatey richness is versatile enough to complement anything from fresh fruit to meringues or biscotti.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the candy dish! Stack the squares on a cake stand for a party centerpiece, pack them in colorful boxes or cellophane bags for the perfect edible gift, or arrange in snack-sized paper cups as party favors. For the holidays, use colored sprinkles to match the season and brighten up your Cool Whip Candy Delight spread. They also look adorable nested in mini cupcake liners for an elegant, fuss-free presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cool Whip Candy Delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delightful for up to a week, so you can treat yourself to a bit of candy heaven any time the mood strikes. Stack with a sheet of parchment between layers to keep the chocolate from sticking.
Freezing
These candies freeze beautifully! Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. When properly stored, they keep their texture and flavor for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge for best results and enjoy chilled for maximum creaminess.
Reheating
There’s really no need to reheat Cool Whip Candy Delight—the creamy filling is meant to be enjoyed cold for that classic candy bar bite. If you prefer a softer center, simply let the candies sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. The chocolate will stay set while the inside becomes irresistibly fudgy.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the filling?
Absolutely! Using milk chocolate will make your Cool Whip Candy Delight sweeter and a bit milder. Dark chocolate also works if you prefer a slightly richer, less sweet bite—just make sure to adjust to your taste.
Do I have to use almond bark?
No, if you can’t find almond bark, you can use any kind of chocolate candy coating or even good-quality chocolate chips, though the finish may be a bit softer. Almond bark is great for its quick-setting, glossy finish and durability at room temperature.
My filling seems sticky or gooey—what happened?
If your kitchen was warm or the mixture didn’t chill quite long enough, the squares might get sticky while slicing. Make sure to freeze for the full hour, use a clean, hot knife between cuts, and work quickly. Popping the pan back in the freezer can easily remedy sticky slices!
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the candy center?
Yes, you can absolutely get creative! Try folding in a little peppermint extract, orange zest, or finely chopped nuts for a unique twist on your Cool Whip Candy Delight. Just be careful that any mix-ins are finely chopped so your squares hold together well.
How do I make clean, even cuts every time?
Warm your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut—this helps slice cleanly through the chilled filling and avoids dragging chocolate or making jagged edges. For perfectly neat squares, don’t rush and let your knife do the work!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing, ultra-satisfying, and downright fun dessert, Cool Whip Candy Delight delivers each and every time. With its rich chocolate shell and dreamy, whipped center, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making on repeat for potlucks, parties, and spontaneous late-night cravings. Gather your friends, roll up your sleeves, and let this simple homemade candy bring a little extra joy—and a lot of chocolatey goodness—into your day!
PrintCool Whip Candy Delight Recipe
This Cool Whip candy delight recipe is a simple and delicious treat that tastes just like a sweet candy bar. With only three ingredients, you can easily whip up a batch of these delightful candies for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 36 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Semi-Sweet Baking Bars:
- 12 ounces, broken into small pieces
Frozen Whipped Topping:
- 8 ounces tub, thawed
Chocolate Almond Bark:
- 24 ounces, also known as candy coating
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt Chocolate: Microwave baking bars until smooth. Mix in whipped topping.
- Chill Mixture: Spread mixture in pan and freeze for 1 hour.
- Cut Candy: Slice chilled mixture into squares.
- Coat Candy: Dip candy in melted almond bark and chill until set.
Notes
- If you prefer, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler instead of the microwave.
- Ensure thorough mixing of chocolate and whipped topping for a smooth consistency.
- Clean your knife with hot water between cuts to maintain clean edges on the candy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 179 kcal
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 12mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.1g
- Trans Fat: 0.003g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0.4mg
