15-Minute Condensed Milk Cream Cheese Frosting

Prep: 10 minmediumAmerican
Condensed Milk Cream Cheese Frosting with Cool Whip

This rich and creamy frosting combines sweetened condensed milk, butter, cream cheese, and Cool Whip for an incredibly smooth texture that's perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and desserts. The condensed milk adds sweetness and helps create a thick, pipeable consistency, while the cream cheese provides tangy balance. This frosting is ideal for celebrations and special occasions when you want something more indulgent than basic buttercream. The Cool Whip keeps it light and fluffy, making it easy to spread and creating a frosting that holds its shape beautifully for decorating.

Ingredients

  • ¾ can sweetened condensed milk, 10.5 oz from 14 oz can
  • 1 cup butter, room temperature, 2 sticks or 226 grams
    vegan butter1:1vegandairy-free

    plant-based

    Full guide →
  • 6 oz cream cheese, room temperature, 3/4 of 8 oz package
    mascarpone1:1flavor

    richer taste

    Full guide →
  • 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed in refrigerator
    homemade whipped cream1:1textureadds dairy

    lighter texture

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Whisk butter and condensed milk in electric mixer bowl on medium speed until thick cream consistency forms

  2. 2

    Mix in cream cheese one tablespoon at a time on medium-low speed until smooth and lump-free

  3. 3

    Reduce speed to low and mix in Cool Whip just until combined

  4. 4

    Use immediately or refrigerate until ready to use

Tips

Tip 1

Mix the butter and condensed milk for the full 5 minutes to achieve proper thick frosting consistency

Tip 2

Add cream cheese gradually to prevent lumps and ensure smooth texture

Tip 3

Use frosting immediately for best texture or refrigerate if making ahead

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate covered for up to 1 week

Make Ahead

Can be made 2 days ahead, bring to room temperature before using

Serve With

Best at room temperature for easy spreading

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overmix Cool Whip to avoid deflating

Watch

Add cream cheese slowly to prevent lumps

Watch

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

butter
vegan butter1:1vegandairy-free

plant-based

Full guide →

General Alternatives

Cool Whip
homemade whipped cream1:1textureadds dairy

lighter texture

Full guide →
cream cheese
mascarpone1:1flavor

richer taste

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make this frosting without Cool Whip?

Yes, substitute with 1 cup freshly whipped heavy cream, but the texture will be slightly different and less stable.

How long does this frosting keep?

Store covered in refrigerator for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature and re-whip briefly before using if needed.

Can I freeze this frosting?

Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and re-whip to restore texture before using.