Cool Whip is a popular whipped topping used to add a light, fluffy texture and sweet flavor to desserts like pies, cakes, and fruit salads. But when it comes to serving sizes, how far does an 8 oz tub of Cool Whip really go?
An 8 oz tub contains approximately 16 servings of 2 tablespoons each. This means a single tub can serve up to 16 people if using 2 tablespoons per serving. However, serving sizes can vary based on how Cool Whip is being used and personal preferences. Ultimately, an 8 oz tub provides a good amount of topping for most purposes and can serve anywhere from 8-16 people depending on serving size.
What is Cool Whip?
Cool Whip is a brand of whipped topping made by Kraft Foods. It is a non-dairy whipped cream substitute made from water, hydrogenated vegetable oil, high fructose corn syrup, and less than 2% of sodium caseinate, natural and artificial flavor, xanthan and guar gums, polysorbate 60, and sorbitan monostearate.
Cool Whip is sold frozen in tubs and as ready-to-use topping in pressurized cans. It has a light, airy texture similar to whipped cream but contains no dairy ingredients. The taste is sweet and creamy, making it a popular topping for desserts in the United States and Canada.
Key Features of Cool Whip:
- Non-dairy whipped topping
- Made from vegetable oil
- Sweet creamy flavor
- Light and fluffy texture
- Used as topping for pies, cakes, fruit, etc.
- Sold in multiple sizes including 8 oz tubs
Cool Whip Serving Sizes
The standard serving size for Cool Whip given on the nutrition facts label is 2 tablespoons or 1/8 cup. This contains approximately:
- 25 calories
- 3g total fat
- 4g total carbohydrates
- 0g protein
However, serving sizes may vary depending on how it is being used:
On Desserts:
- Pie or cake slice: ~2-3 tablespoons
- Fruit salad: ~1 tablespoon
- Pancakes or waffles: ~1 tablespoon
As a Topping:
- Hot chocolate: ~1 tablespoon
- Milkshake: ~2 tablespoons
- Ice cream sundae: ~2-3 tablespoons
In general, a typical serving size ranges from 1-3 tablespoons depending on use. Larger serving sizes may be used for fuller coverage and richer flavor.
How Many Servings in an 8 oz Tub?
An 8 oz tub of Cool Whip contains approximately:
- 16 servings of 2 tablespoons each
- 32 servings of 1 tablespoon each
This is based on the nutrition facts label serving size of 2 tablespoons (1/8 cup). So an 8 oz tub provides about 16 servings if using the standard 2 tablespoon serving size.
Calculation:
1 cup = 16 tablespoons
8 oz tub = 2 cups
2 cups x 16 tablespoons per cup = 32 tablespoons total
32 tablespoons / 2 tbsp per serving = 16 servings
If serving smaller 1 tablespoon portions, an 8 oz tub would provide 32 servings. So the total servings can range from 16-32 depending on the serving size used.
How Many People Will an 8 oz Tub Serve?
Based on the typical serving sizes and number of servings per tub, here is an estimate of how many people an 8 oz tub of Cool Whip can serve:
- 16 people at 2 tablespoons each
- 24 people at 1.5 tablespoons each
- 32 people at 1 tablespoon each
So if using a moderate 2 tablespoon serving size, an 8 oz tub can serve around 16 people. Smaller serving sizes of 1-1.5 tablespoons would allow it to serve 24-32 people. Bigger serving sizes of 2-3 tablespoons would lower the total number of people served.
Variables that affect servings:
- Desired serving size
- Type of dessert it’s used on
- Number of desserts served
- Other toppings or fillings used
- Whether it’s used alone or with other desserts
The number of people served can also depend on if it’s used for multiple desserts, as a standalone topping, or along with other ingredients. In general though, an 8 oz tub can serve 16-32 people depending on serving sizes.
Tips for Serving Cool Whip
Here are some tips to get the most use and servings out of an 8 oz tub of Cool Whip:
- Use a layer on top of pies or cakes rather than piping or mounding it – this spreads it thinner for more servings.
- Combine it with lighter layers like fresh fruit in desserts – this stretches it further.
- Use a spatula to serve even portions rather than scooping by hand.
- Cut pie or cake slices thinner to reduce the amount of topping needed per serving.
- Use it in lighter applications like fruit salads versus heavy desserts.
- Stick to smaller serving sizes around 1-2 tablespoons per person.
- Save some for later use rather than using the whole tub at once.
Using proper serving techniques can help 8 oz of Cool Whip go further. Sticking to smaller serving sizes close to the recommended 2 tablespoons is also a good guideline for maximizing the number of servings per tub.
Buying Cool Whip
Cool Whip is sold in grocery stores nationwide in the frozen foods aisle. It’s available in several convenient sizes including:
| Size | Number of Servings |
|---|---|
| 8 oz tub | 16-32 |
| 16 oz tub | 32-64 |
| 24 oz tub | 48-96 |
| 8 oz spray can | 32-64 |
The 8 oz size is a good option for topping a standard pie or cake that serves 8-12 people. The larger tubs provide more whipped topping for big gatherings and events. Spray cans allow for quick, easy topping.
Price
On average, an 8 oz tub of Cool Whip costs around $2-3 at most grocery stores. Larger sizes offer more value per ounce but may cost more upfront. Store brands are typically a bit cheaper than the Cool Whip brand. So shop around for the best deals if price is a concern.
Where to Buy
Here are some common places to buy Cool Whip:
- Grocery stores – Found in the frozen foods aisle
- Wholesale clubs – Offer larger bulk sizes for savings
- Convenience stores – For smaller snack-size servings
- Online – Can be purchased online from grocery delivery services
- Dollar stores – Often stock off-brand whipped topping
Look for it in the frozen desserts section near other whipped toppings, ice cream, and novelties. Grocery and wholesale clubs provide the best value for buying multiple tubs at once.
Storing and Thawing Cool Whip
Cool Whip holds up well in the freezer if stored properly. Here are some tips for storing it to maintain best texture and flavor:
- Keep frozen until ready to use
- Do not leave at room temperature or refrigerate after thawing
- Seal the tub tightly after opening
- Use within 2-3 weeks for best quality
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using
- Let sit at room temperature for 30 mins to soften before serving
- Do not refreeze after thawing
With proper freezer storage and careful thawing, Cool Whip can maintain its light, creamy texture. Be sure to keep it frozen until just before using for optimal freshness and performance.
Uses for Cool Whip
Cool Whip is a versatile topping with endless uses. Here are some popular ways to use an 8 oz tub:
On Desserts
- Topping for cakes or cupcakes
- Frosting for layer cakes
- Pie filling or topping
- Pudding topping
- Topping for crisps or cobblers
- Dip for fresh fruit
In Desserts
- Ingredient in trifles or parfaits
- Mix-in for fruit salads
- Filling between layers of a cake
- Lighten up frosting or cheesecake filling
- Blend with cream cheese for dips
As a Topping
- Topping for ice cream sundaes
- Topping for milkshakes or floats
- Whipped cream for hot chocolate
- Topping for breakfast waffles or pancakes
- Garnish for pies, cakes, cupcakes
The possibilities are endless for how to creatively use Cool Whip! Its sweet creamy flavor pairs well with both desserts and breakfast foods.
Cool Whip Recipes
Here are some delicious recipes using 8 oz of Cool Whip:
Easy Berry Trifle
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 (15 oz) can fruit cocktail, drained
- 1 (10 oz) frozen pound cake, thawed and sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
Instructions:
- In a glass bowl, layer half the pound cake slices.
- Top with half the fruit cocktail and half the Cool Whip.
- Repeat layers ending with Cool Whip.
- Garnish with toasted almonds.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
S’mores Trifle
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 (10 oz) pound cake, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- Graham crackers, crushed
Instructions:
- In a glass bowl, layer half the pound cake cubes.
- Sprinkle with 1/2 cup chocolate chips and 1/2 cup marshmallows.
- Spread half the Cool Whip over top.
- Repeat layers ending with Cool Whip.
- Garnish with crushed graham crackers.
Conclusion
An 8 oz tub of Cool Whip can serve anywhere from 8-16 people depending on serving sizes. Standard nutrition label servings estimate 16 servings per tub. However, smaller 1-1.5 tablespoon servings could extend it to serve up to 24-32 people. Proper storage and serving techniques help maximize the number of servings. With its sweet creamy flavor, Cool Whip is a tasty topping for endless desserts and recipes. Use portion control and find creative uses to help this versatile whipped topping spread joy at any gathering.
