I’m excited to share my version of Wendy’s classic Frosty—a rich, creamy, chocolatey frozen treat I can whip up at home using just four simple ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortlessly this Frosty comes together—just whisk and freeze. The texture perfectly mimics Wendy’s signature dessert: thick enough to savor with a spoon yet smooth enough to sip through a straw. It hits that nostalgic chocolate-vanilla balance I always crave in a frozen dessert.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

300 ml sweetened condensed milk
8 oz thawed Cool Whip
8 cups 1% chocolate milk
2 Tbsp vanilla extract

directions

In a large bowl, I whisk the sweetened condensed milk and Cool Whip until smooth.
I add the chocolate milk and vanilla extract, mixing everything together until fully blended.
Then I pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and cover it tightly.
I freeze it for about 3 hours, stirring once every hour to keep the texture creamy.
Once it’s frozen to my liking, I scoop and serve it immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Freeze time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Boozy Frosty: I sometimes add a splash of bourbon or vodka for an adult twist.
No Cool Whip? I whip 1 cup of heavy cream until medium peaks form and use that instead.
Different milks: I’ve used chocolate almond milk before—it gives a slightly nuttier flavor.
Fruity twist: For a strawberry version, I replace chocolate milk with strawberry milk or mix in strawberry syrup.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month.
Before serving again, I let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes so it’s easier to scoop.
I don’t recommend keeping it in the fridge—it melts and loses the Frosty texture.

FAQs

Can I make a smaller batch?

Yes—I often cut the recipe in half when I don’t need a full batch. It still freezes perfectly.

Do I have to stir every hour while freezing?

I like to stir it every hour to keep it smooth, but if I skip a stir, it still comes out tasty with a firmer texture.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Definitely. I just whip my own cream and it works just as well, sometimes even better.

Is vanilla extract really necessary?

I always include it because it adds that signature Frosty flavor. Without it, the dessert tastes a bit flat.

Can I freeze leftovers in individual portions?

Yes—I love storing it in small containers or cups so I can grab one whenever I want a quick treat.

Conclusion

This copycat Wendy’s Frosty has become one of my go-to frozen desserts. It’s simple, nostalgic, and endlessly customizable. Whether I enjoy it plain or with a fun twist, I know I’m getting that same creamy, chocolaty treat I’ve always loved—made right at home.