Quick Answer
Yes, there are several brands of cool whip that offer sugar free versions, including the Original Cool Whip brand by Kraft, as well as store brand versions sold at major grocery chains. The sugar free cool whip options use artificial sweeteners as a replacement for sugar to reduce the calorie and carbohydrate content.
What is Cool Whip?
Cool Whip is a brand name for a light, fluffy, frozen whipped topping made by Kraft Foods. It is a non-dairy whipped cream substitute that is used for topping desserts, fruit, pies, cakes and more. The original Cool Whip contains cream, skim milk, high fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated vegetable oil as the main ingredients. It is offered in a variety of flavors including original, sugar free, extra creamy and lite.
Background on Cool Whip
Cool Whip was first introduced in 1966 by the Birds Eye division of General Foods. It was designed to be an inexpensive, convenient alternative to real whipped cream that could be stored in the freezer and did not require whipping. It quickly became popular among consumers for its versatility, convenience and shelf stability.
Kraft Foods acquired General Foods and the Cool Whip brand in 1990. They reformulated the product over the years and introduced additional flavors and varieties. Today Cool Whip remains the top selling whipped topping brand in the United States.
Sugar Free Cool Whip Options
For consumers watching their sugar intake, there are several sugar free cool whip products available:
Cool Whip Sugar Free
The Cool Whip brand sells their own sugar free version of their original whipped topping. It contains water, hydrogenated vegetable oil, high fructose corn syrup, light cream and less than 1g of sugar per serving. The sugar free Cool Whip uses aspartame and acesulfame potassium as sweeteners instead of sugar. It has about 15 calories per 2 tablespoon serving.
Cool Whip Extra Creamy Sugar Free
Cool Whip Extra Creamy Sugar Free is another option within the brand’s product line. As the name implies, it has a thicker, richer texture. It is sweetened with sucralose and contains 5 calories per 2 tablespoon serving.
Cool Whip Lite Sugar Free
For an even lighter option, Cool Whip offers their sugar free Lite whipped topping. It is sweetened with sucralose and acesulfame potassium. Each serving has just 5 calories and less than 1g sugar.
Grocery Store Brand Sugar Free Whipped Topping
Many grocery store chains also offer their own generic version of sugar free whipped topping. These are typically near the Cool Whip in the freezer aisle. Some examples of store brands with sugar free whipped topping include:
- Great Value (Walmart)
- Food Club (Food Lion)
- Essential Everyday (ShopRite)
- Kroger
- Market Pantry (Target)
- Signature Select (Albertsons)
These products provide a budget friendly alternative to brand name Cool Whip. They are essentially identical products with very similar nutrition facts and ingredients. The store brand versions typically use sucralose as the sugar substitute.
Nutrition Comparison of Regular vs. Sugar Free Cool Whip
To see the impact of the sugar free formulations, here is a nutrition comparison of regular Cool Whip versus Cool Whip Sugar Free:
Cool Whip Original
- 25 calories per 2 tbsp serving
- 3g fat
- 4g carbs
- 4g sugar
Cool Whip Sugar Free
- 15 calories per 2 tbsp serving
- 2.5g fat
- 3g carbs
- 0g sugar
As you can see, the sugar free version contains 10 fewer calories and 4g less sugar per serving compared to regular Cool Whip.
Ingredients in Sugar Free Cool Whip
Sugar free cool whip products are able to eliminate most sugar by swapping in artificial sweeteners like aspartame, acesulfame potassium, sucralose or blends of these. Here are some of the common ingredients found in sugar free Cool Whip:
- Water – Provides moisture and volume.
- Hydrogenated vegetable oil – Used to stabilize and thicken the product. Also contributes to the creamy texture.
- High fructose corn syrup – Some brands use a small amount as part of the sweetener blend.
- Milk or light cream – Dairy products like milk or cream contribute to flavor and richness.
- Artificial sweeteners – Aspartame, acesulfame potassium or sucralose used to provide sweetness without sugar and calories.
- Natural and artificial flavors – Help create the signature sweet, creamy taste.
- Preservatives – Potassium sorbate, sodium citrate help extend shelf life and stability.
- Colorings – Added colors like Yellow #5 and Blue #1.
Consumers who wish to avoid ingredients like artificial sweeteners, colors or preservatives may want to opt for regular Cool Whip or make homemade sugar free whipped cream instead. Those with dietary restrictions should also check labels for potential allergens like milk, soy or gluten from thickeners used.
How to Use Sugar Free Cool Whip
Sugar free cool whip can be used in the same ways as regular cool whip. It provides a lighter, fluffier topping or accompaniment to desserts without boosting the sugar content. Here are some ideas for using sugar free cool whip:
- Top pies, cakes or cupcakes
- Fill or frost a layer cake
- Make parfaits with layers of sugar free pudding and fruit
- Use as a topping for fruit salads
- Fill cream puffs or eclairs
- Fold into mousse recipes
- Dollop on oatmeal or ice cream
- Use in place of whipped cream for hot chocolate or cocoa
- Spoon on keto desserts like chia pudding
- Blend with cream cheese and fruits for dips
- Mix into smoothies for added thickness and sweetness
The convenience, versatility and stability of sugar free cool whip makes it easy to add to all kinds of desserts, drinks, snacks and recipes for a light, fluffy touch without extra sugar.
Tips for Storing and Using Sugar Free Cool Whip
To get the best results from sugar free cool whip, follow these storage and usage tips:
- Keep refrigerated until ready to use.
- Use by the “Best by” date printed on the container.
- Freeze for longer term storage. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
- Always re-seal container tightly after each use.
- Avoid temperature fluctuations – don’t leave out on the counter for extended periods.
- Let sit at room temperature briefly to soften before piping or decorating.
- Gently fold in fruits, nuts, pudding mixes vs. vigorous mixing to avoid thinning the texture.
- Add a bit at a time when folding into heavier foods like cake batters.
- Refrigerate any leftovers in a covered bowl instead of the original container.
Following proper storage and handling procedures will help maintain the light, creamy texture of the sugar free cool whip. Take care not to over-mix when incorporating into recipes.
How Sugar Free Cool Whip is Made
Sugar free cool whip goes through a similar manufacturing process as regular cool whip, with a few modifications. Here is an overview of how it is made commercially:
- Blend water, hydrogenated oil, corn syrup, milk products, and artificial sweeteners in large vats.
- Inject nitrogen gas while mixing to help aerate the mixture.
- Extrude the whipped mixture into temporary holding containers.
- Add natural and artificial flavors and colors as needed to achieve the desired taste and appearance.
- Homogenize the mixture for consistent texture and smoothness.
- Pasteurize the product using heat treatment to eliminate harmful bacteria.
- Inject into final retail packaging and seal.
- Freeze rapidly to solidify the whipped structure.
- Store and distribute frozen until consumption.
Manufacturers whip inert nitrogen gas into the liquid ingredients while freezing to create the light, airy texture of cool whip. The sugar free versions may require additional stabilization with hydrocolloids like gums to prevent wheying off or collapse after thawing. Proper homogenization, pasteurization and sanitation practices also help ensure quality, safety and optimal shelf life.
Alternatives to Sugar Free Cool Whip
In addition to commercial sugar free cool whip products, consumers can also make homemade whipped cream or try other dairy-free whipped topping options.
Homemade Whipped Cream
Whipping heavy whipping cream with a mixer or whisk creates fluffy whipped cream with minimal effort. Sweeteners like vanilla extract or stevia can be added to make a sugar free version. Homemade lasts around 2 days refrigerated.
Coconut Whipped Cream
Chilled coconut milk or coconut cream can be whipped into plant-based whipped topping. Full fat coconut milk works best. Sweeten if desired with maple syrup, honey, stevia or powdered sugar.
Dairy-Free Toppings
For those avoiding dairy, there are products like Truwhip made with soy, nut milks or oils. Read labels since some contain small amounts of sugars. Can be used just like regular whipped cream.
Sweetened Whipped Toppings
Other brands like Reddi Wip offer sweetened whipped cream in a can. These contain more sugar than Cool Whip but can be useful for topping and decorating. Check labels for sugar content.
Cost Comparison
Here is a pricing comparison of Cool Whip versus alternative whipped topping options:
| Product | Typical Price |
|---|---|
| Cool Whip Sugar Free | $3.49 for 8 oz tub |
| Store Brand Sugar Free Whipped Topping | $2.99 for 8 oz tub |
| Heavy Whipping Cream (to make homemade) | $3.99 per pint |
| Coconut Whipped Cream | $3.99 per can (14-15 oz) unsweetened coconut milk |
| Truwhip Dairy Free Whipped Topping | $4.99 for 8 oz tub |
| Reddi Wip Sweetened Whipped Cream | $3.79 for 6.5 oz can |
Cool Whip and grocery store brands offer the most budget friendly options for sugar free whipped topping. Homemade can also be very economical if whipping small batches from cream on hand. Specialty coconut or dairy-free products tend to cost a bit more.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about sugar free cool whip:
Is sugar free cool whip Keto friendly?
Most sugar free cool whips are keto friendly and can fit into a ketogenic diet when used in moderation. They typically contain 1-2g net carbs per serving. Always check labels for the latest nutrition info.
Can you freeze sugar free cool whip?
Yes, it freezes well for longer term storage. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Does sugar free cool whip need to be refrigerated?
It must be stored in the refrigerator or freezer at all times to maintain best texture and food safety.
Is sugar free cool whip gluten free?
Regular Cool Whip is gluten free, though some store brands may have gluten from added stabilizers. Check labels to be sure.
Does sugar free cool whip have aspartame?
Some sugar free cool whip products use aspartame. Others may use sucralose or a blend of sweeteners. Check ingredient labels for which artificial sweeteners are used.
The Bottom Line
There are several great options for sugar free cool whip that provide the same fluffy topping ability without all the added sugar. The Cool Whip brand along with various store labels offer convenient, budget friendly whipped topping choices for those monitoring their sugar intake. Compare nutrition labels and ingredients to find your best sugar free cool whip fit.
