Cool Whip and Reddi Wip are two popular brands of whipped topping that are used as a dairy-free alternative to whipped cream. Both products are loved for their light, fluffy texture and sweet vanilla flavor that can instantly elevate desserts, milkshakes, pies and more. But when it comes down to taste, texture, ingredients and nutrition, which whipped topping is the better choice?
What is Cool Whip?
Cool Whip is a shelf-stable whipped topping product made by Kraft. It was first introduced in 1966 and quickly became popular due to its convenience, affordability and versatility in the kitchen and at the table. Here are some key facts about Cool Whip:
- Made from water, hydrogenated vegetable oil, high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, skim milk, light cream and less than 2% of sodium caseinate, natural and artificial flavor, xanthan and guar gums, polysorbate 60, sorbitan monostearate and beta carotene for color.
- Comes in a tub or aerosol can.
- Does not need to be refrigerated until after opening.
- Has a light, airy and creamy texture.
- Tastes sweet with a mild vanilla flavor.
- Works as a topping, ingredient or dessert by itself.
- Can be frozen for longer storage.
- Is lower in calories and fat than regular whipped cream.
- Lasts longer than whipped cream since it’s shelf-stable.
- Is lactose-free and vegan (some varieties).
- Comes in original, extra creamy and sugar-free versions.
The ease of use, convenience and versatility of Cool Whip has made it a refrigerator staple for generations of home cooks and bakers.
What is Reddi Wip?
Reddi Wip is a whipped cream product made by ConAgra that comes in an aerosol spray can. It was first released in 1948 and popularized the idea of spray-on whipped cream. Here are some key facts about Reddi Wip:
- Made from cream, milk, corn syrup, sugar and less than 2% of natural flavor, mono and diglycerides, carrageenan, artificial color and propellant.
- Comes in a pressurized aerosol can only.
- Needs to be refrigerated.
- Has a lighter, airier texture than typical whipped cream.
- Tastes rich, indulgent and sweet.
- Works as a topping, ingredient or dessert on its own.
- Can be customized with mix-ins and spices.
- Contains more calories and fat than Cool Whip.
- Does not last as long as regular whipped cream.
- Contains dairy so it’s not suitable for vegans.
- Comes in original, real dairy, extra creamy, sugar free and fat free versions.
The convenience of being able to spray Reddi Wip directly onto desserts, drinks and more has made it popular for quick and easy topping.
Nutrition Comparison
When comparing the nutrition facts of Cool Whip vs Reddi Wip, there are some clear differences:
| Nutrition Facts | Cool Whip | Reddi Wip |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 25 per 2 tbsp | 45 per 2 tbsp |
| Total Fat | 2g | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 3.5g |
| Sodium | 25mg | 15mg |
| Sugar | 1g | 2g |
| Protein | 0g | 0g |
As you can see, Cool Whip is lower in calories, fat, saturated fat and sugar compared to Reddi Wip. Reddi Wip contains nearly double the calories and fat since it’s made with cream. Cool Whip has slightly more sodium due to added thickeners and emulsifiers.
Ingredients
When looking at the ingredients lists, Cool Whip and Reddi Wip both contain additions like corn syrup, mono/diglycerides and guar/xanthan gums to help stabilize, emulsify and thicken the products. However, there are some key differences:
- Dairy – Reddi Wip contains real cream and milk while Cool Whip contains small amounts of milk and cream for flavor only.
- Sweeteners – Cool Whip relies more on high fructose corn syrup for sweetness while Reddi Wip uses regular sugar.
- Fats – The main fats in Cool Whip are hydrogenated vegetable oils while Reddi Wip gets its fats from cream.
- Propellants – Reddi Wip requires nitrous oxide as a propellant for the spray can while Cool Whip does not.
Overall, Reddi Wip has a more natural, simpler ingredients list compared to Cool Whip’s longer list of emulsifiers, thickeners and artificial flavors. However, Cool Whip’s lack of dairy makes it suitable for vegans.
Flavor and Texture
When it comes to flavor and texture, Cool Whip and Reddi Wip have some similarities but also clear differences:
- Sweetness – Reddi Wip has a richer, sweeter flavor profile thanks to the sugar and dairy cream. Cool Whip is mildly sweetened with corn syrup.
- Flavor – Reddi Wip tastes indulgently like fresh whipped cream. Cool Whip has a lighter, less creamy vanilla flavor.
- Mouthfeel – Reddi Wip is smooth, rich and coats the mouth while Cool Whip feels lighter and foamy.
- Appearance – Reddi Wip looks denser while Cool Whip has a lighter, airier texture.
- Melting – Reddi Wip tends to melt faster while Cool Whip is more stable at room temperature.
Overall, Reddi Wip most closely mimics the flavor and texture of homemade whipped cream, while Cool Whip has a lighter, less rich mouthfeel.
Cost Comparison
When comparing the prices of Cool Whip vs Reddi Wip, Cool Whip tends to be a little more budget-friendly:
| Product | Typical Price |
|---|---|
| Cool Whip Tub (8 oz) | $1.50-$3.00 |
| Cool Whip Aerosol Can (6 oz) | $2.50-$4.50 |
| Reddi Wip Aerosol Can (6.5 oz) | $3.00-$5.00 |
The bulk tubs of Cool Whip tend to offer more ounces per dollar compared to the aerosol cans of both products. But overall, Cool Whip has a slight price advantage over Reddi Wip. Of course, prices can vary depending on promotions, store brands and location.
Convenience
Both Cool Whip and Reddi Wip offer convenience, but in slightly different ways:
- Shelf Life – Cool Whip can sit in the pantry unopened for months, while Reddi Wip must be refrigerated at all times.
- Portion Control – The aerosol cans of both products make it easy to control serving size.
- Speed – Reddi Wip’s aerosol delivery allows you to top dishes in seconds without preparation.
- Mix-Ins – Cool Whip’s tub format makes it easier to blend in custom flavors and mix-ins.
- Travel – The self-contained cans of Reddi Wip make it portable for picnics and parties.
For maximum convenience, the aerosol cans are great for quick, ready-to-use topping while the tubs offer versatility in the kitchen.
Uses
Here are some of the most popular uses for Cool Whip and Reddi Wip:
Cool Whip
- Topping for pies, cakes, cupcakes, fruit
- Mixing into desserts like trifles, parfaits and banana pudding
- Frosting and filling for cakes
- Lightening up heavier desserts
- Whipped cream replacement for drinks like hot chocolate and milkshakes
- Dipped fruit
- Edible play dough for kids
Reddi Wip
- Spray topping for pies, cakes, brownies, cupcakes
- Coffee drinks like lattes and mochas
- Milkshakes and ice cream sundaes
- Fruit like strawberries and bananas
- Creative plating and dessert presentations
- Whipped cream fights for fun
- Frosting decorator using piping tips
Both products can be used in similar ways for all types of desserts, but Reddi Wip’s spray delivery lends itself to more whimsical and decorative uses.
Which is Better?
So when it comes down to it, which whipped topping is better – Cool Whip or Reddi Wip?
Here’s a quick recap of the pros and cons of each:
Cool Whip Pros:
- Lower in calories, fat and sugar
- Extended unopened shelf life
- Slightly more affordable
- Lactose-free and vegan
- Mixes and blends easily
Cool Whip Cons:
- Not as natural or rich-tasting as whipped cream
- Artificial flavors and colors
- Can have chemical or artificial aftertaste
- Not as decorative as Reddi Wip
Reddi Wip Pros:
- All natural ingredients
- Closely mimics texture of real whipped cream
- Richer, sweeter flavor
- Fun, decorative spray-on delivery
- Portable and travel-friendly
Reddi Wip Cons:
- Higher in calories, fat and sugar
- Not as stable at room temperature
- More expensive
- Contains dairy so not vegan
- Aerosol use has environmental impact
Ultimately, it depends on your priorities and needs. If you want an indulgent whipped cream taste and decorative presentation, Reddi Wip is likely the better choice. But if you need something dairy-free or are limiting calories and sugar, Cool Whip may be a better option. Both can add a nice topping or finish to desserts in different ways.
Some other factors to consider:
- Dietary needs – Those avoiding dairy would need to choose Cool Whip or Reddi Wip’s dairy-free options.
- Baking/cooking needs – Cool Whip holds up better in baked goods compared to Reddi Wip.
- Convenience – Reddi Wip’s aerosol can makes spontaneous topping easier.
- Kids – Many kids prefer the sweeter, creamier taste of Reddi Wip.
- Price – Cool Whip tubs give you more ounces per dollar.
Test out both products to decide which you like better based on taste, texture, nutrition needs, baking properties and price. There’s a time and place for both Cool Whip and Reddi Wip depending on the application.
The Verdict
Cool Whip and Reddi Wip both have their pros, cons and best uses. Cool Whip offers great convenience, affordability and flexibility as a dairy-free whipped topping substitute in desserts and drinks. Reddi Wip provides that sweet indulgent taste and decorative finish of real whipped cream. While personal preference rules, some key deciding factors include dietary needs, nutrition priorities, baking utility, environmental impact and price. The bottom line – don’t overlook the simple joy both of these popular products can add to your desserts and drinks!