Tyler McFarland on September 30, 2023
Updated on December 12, 2023 Reviewed and fact-checked Found a mistake? Let us know!
Wondering if Cool Whip is vegan? You’re not alone. Many want to know if this product can be incorporated into their plant-based diets.
In this article, we will explore whether this popular whipped topping is suitable for those following a vegan lifestyle.
Let’s dive right in and find out if Cool Whip is vegan or not.
Is Cool Whip Vegan?
Short answer: Yes, Cool Whip is vegan. It is a popular dairy-free whipped topping that does not contain any animal-derived ingredients.
Detailed Answer
Cool Whip is considered vegan because it is made without any animal products or by-products. Unlike traditional whipped cream, which is made from heavy cream derived from cow’s milk, Cool Whip is a non-dairy alternative.
Instead of dairy, Cool Whip is made from a combination of plant-based ingredients. These ingredients include water, hydrogenated vegetable oil, corn syrup, and high fructose corn syrup.
On top of that, this creamy topping is made using a process without the use of any animal ingredients. As a result, it is suitable for people following a vegan or dairy-free diet.
Key Takeaways
- Cool Whip is a vegan-friendly whipped topping.
- It is made without any animal products or by-products.
- Instead of dairy, it is made with plant-based ingredients.
- Cool Whip provides a creamy and delicious alternative to traditional whipped cream.
- It can be enjoyed by people following a vegan or dairy-free lifestyle.
What’s Cool Whip?
Cool Whip is a popular brand of non-dairy whipped topping that is commonly used as a dessert topping or ingredient in various recipes.
This product is known for its light and fluffy texture. This factor makes it a versatile choice for adding a creamy element to desserts such as pies, cakes, and fruit salads.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Usage | Is It Vegan? |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Main ingredient and base for the whipped topping | Yes |
| Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil | Provides stability and gives the product its creamy texture | Yes |
| Corn Syrup | Sweetens the whipped topping | Yes |
| High Fructose Corn Syrup | Another sweetening agent | Yes |
| Sodium Caseinate | A milk derivative used as a stabilizer in the original Cool Whip but not in the non-dairy version | Not used in the non-dairy version |
| Natural and Artificial Flavors | Enhances the taste of the whipped topping | Yes |
| Xanthan and Guar Gums | Helps to thicken and stabilize the product | Yes |
| Polysorbate 60 | An emulsifier that helps to mix oil-based and water-based ingredients | Yes |
| Sorbitan Monostearate | Another emulsifier that helps to stabilize the whipped topping | Yes |
| Artificial Color | Adds color to the product | Yes |
| Carrageenan | A thickening and stabilizing agent | Yes |
| Polyglycerol Esters of Fatty Acids | Helps to stabilize the whipped topping | Yes |
| Soy Lecithin | An emulsifier derived from soybeans | Yes |
| Citric Acid | Provides a tart flavor | Yes |
| Potassium Sorbate | A preservative that helps to extend the shelf life of the product | Yes |
Does nutrition ever seem confusing? It doesn’t have to be. Learn how simple (and delicious) healthy eating can be in the FREE Food for Health Masterclass. This 1-hour presentation makes things clear—finally. Click here to reserve your free spot!
Is Cool Whip Healthy?
Cool Whip is a dessert topping that is meant to add a delicious and creamy touch to your favorite treats. While it can enhance the taste of your desserts, it is not considered a healthy food on its own.
Cool Whip is highly processed and contains added sugars, hydrogenated vegetable oil, and artificial ingredients.
If you are looking for a healthier alternative, you may consider using whipped coconut cream, which is made from the solid part of canned coconut milk. This option contains healthy fats from coconuts and can be whipped to achieve a similar texture to Cool Whip.
Alternatives for Cool Whip
If you prefer to avoid store-bought whipped toppings or are looking for alternatives, there are various options available:
- Whipped Coconut Cream: Made from the solid part of canned coconut milk, whipped coconut cream provides a dairy-free and vegan-friendly alternative to Cool Whip.
- Aquafaba: The liquid from canned chickpeas can be whipped to create a fluffy and vegan alternative to traditional whipped cream.
- Cashew Cream: Soaked and blended cashews can be transformed into a creamy and versatile topping for desserts.
- Soy Whipped Cream: Some stores offer dairy-free whipped cream made from soy milk as an alternative to Cool Whip.
Examples of Dishes or Recipes Using Cool Whip
1. Strawberry Shortcake Parfait
This delightful dessert layers fresh strawberries, crumbled shortbread cookies, and Cool Whip in a parfait glass for a sweet and indulgent treat.
2. Chocolate Mousse Pie
A rich and velvety chocolate mousse filling is topped with a generous layer of Cool Whip and served in a flaky pie crust. A chocolate lover’s dream!
3. Fruit Salad with Cool Whip
This refreshing and colorful fruit salad combines a variety of fresh fruits, such as berries, melons, and grapes, with a dollop of Cool Whip for added creaminess.
Looking for a sign that it’s time to take charge of your diet? This is it. Watch the Food or Health Masterclass—completely free—and discover the 10 surprising nutrition breakthroughs everyone should know. Reserve your free spot here!
FAQ
Is Cool Whip gluten-free?
Yes, Cool Whip is gluten-free. It does not contain any gluten ingredients.
Check the label for any potential cross-contamination risks in case of severe gluten intolerance or Celiac disease.
Can I freeze Cool Whip?
Yes, you can freeze Cool Whip. However, it may affect the texture and consistency once thawed.
It is best to use frozen Cool Whip as a topping or mix-in rather than attempting to rewhip it after freezing.
Does Cool Whip expire?
Like any product, Cool Whip has an expiration date. Examine the packaging for the specific expiration date and consume it before that date for optimal flavor and quality.
Once opened, Cool Whip should be stored in the refrigerator and used within a week.
Can I use Cool Whip as a substitute for whipped cream in recipes?
Yes, Cool Whip can be used as a substitute for whipped cream in many recipes. Still, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Experiment and adjust according to your personal preferences.
Is Cool Whip lower in calories than whipped cream?
Cool Whip is typically lower in calories compared to traditional whipped cream.
That said, the exact calorie count may vary depending on the specific brand and type of whipped cream being compared. Check the nutrition labels for accurate information.
Summary
Cool Whip is a vegan-friendly whipped topping made without animal products. It is a non-dairy alternative to traditional whipped cream and is enjoyed by vegans and individuals following a dairy-free diet.
Despite being a processed product, Cool Whip can be a delicious addition to desserts. There are also alternatives available for those seeking healthier options.
Whether you use it in strawberry shortcake parfaits, chocolate mousse pies, or fruit salads, Cool Whip adds a creamy touch to your favorite dishes.
Two More Recommendations for Your Plant-Based Journey
1. This is the best free video training I’ve found on plant-based nutrition. You’ll learn how to reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and obesity—all with plant-based food. Watch the free “Food for Health Masterclass” here.
2. This is the best vegan multivitamin I’ve found in my 14 years of being vegan. It has vitamin B12, vitamin D, omega-3—and nothing else. Translation: It only has the nutrients vegans are actually low in. Read my full review of Future Kind’s multivitamin here (with 10% discount).
I’m Tyler McFarland, the editor and main author here. When I first went vegan 13 years ago, convenience products like veggie burgers and soy milk were a lot harder to find. Now they’re everywhere!