There’s something ridiculously comforting about a Wendy’s Frosty. Maybe it’s the creamy texture, or that cocoa-rich chill that takes you straight back to childhood fast-food runs. But let’s be honest—most of us don’t want to load up on sugar and calories every time we crave one. The good news? You don’t have to.
This lightened-up Wendy’s Frosty copycat recipe hits all the nostalgic notes—without the sugar crash or guilt. It’s ridiculously easy, takes less than 10 minutes, and only needs a handful of pantry staples. And the best part? You control the flavor, texture, and sweetness.
Let’s break it down. (Spoiler: you’ll probably want to keep your blender on standby for daily use.)
Why You’ll Probably Be Hooked After One Sip
What’s the magic here? In truth—it’s a matter of balance. You want something that tastes like a real treat, but without the sugar bomb, and no post-dessert regret. This Frosty walks that line perfectly; it’s creamy, chocolatey and satisfying without being a load in your belly.
Here’s what makes it a beloved repeat:
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Fast to prepare – From craving to sipping in less than 10- minutes. No stove, no stress.
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Lighter but still indulgent – Skim milk and sugar-free pudding bring the flavor without all the extras.
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Built for your cravings – Want it thicker? Extra chocolatey? A little sweeter? It’s totally up to you.
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Straightforward ingredients – Just simple pantry staples—no weird powders or syrups involved.
Whether you’re cooling off after a long day or need a dessert that doesn’t mess with your goals, this Frosty delivers the goods. One taste, and you’ll see why it’s kind of addictive.
Key Ingredients
Nonfat (Skim) Milk: The Frosty’s base, nonfat milk gives the item some lightness, blended with the ice gives it a creamy smoothness.
Sugar-Free Chocolate Pudding Mix: The secret ingredient! Now, this also adds some body to the Frosty, while providing the classic chocolate flavor, but fewer calories.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds a little depth to the pudding mix, as well as real chocolate flavor to offset the sweetness.
Splenda — This zero calorie sweetener adds a little sweetness to the Frosty while containing no sugar. Adjust it according to your sweetness level preference.
Cool-Whip Free (optional): For a creamy, extra luxurious texture, stir in Cool-Whip Free. We recommend it but also a real cinematic keepsake!
Ice cubes: The key to that iconic Frosty texture. When blended, ice creates a gloppy, milkshake-like consistency.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
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Got 10 Minutes? Let’s Make It
Step 1: Set Up Your Blender
You’ll need a blender that has a lot of power. The kind that doesn’t recoil when you toss in a handful of ice cubes. Be certain that it is clean and ready to roll.
Step 2: Add the Ingredients
Throw everything in: the milk, pudding mix, cocoa powder, vanilla, Splenda, Cool-Whip (if using), and ice. Just dump it all in. It is strangely satisfying that way.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Start on low, then crank it up to high. You’re looking for a creamy, smooth consistency—no chunks of ice, no separation. If it looks too thin, add more ice. Too thick? A splash of milk will fix it.
Step 4: Serve and Smile
Pour it into a big cup (those reusable Starbucks cups are perfect), or split it into two smaller servings. Top with a bit of Cool-Whip or a dusting of cocoa if you’re feeling extra.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Presentation: Serve in a tall cup with a straw or spoon for that true Wendy’s feel.
Top It Off: Use a dollop of whipped cream sprinkled with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for a fun, decorative touch.
Pair It Up: This goes great with a side of air-fried French fries for the classic Frosty-and-fries combination.
Want to Switch It Up? Here’s How
The other great thing about this recipe is how adaptable it is. And once you nail the base, you can riff on it in all sorts of tasty directions:
Vanilla Version: Replace the cocoa powder and chocolate pudding with sugar-free vanilla pudding mix. Classic and clean.
Peanut Butter-Chocolate: Add 1–2 tbsp of peanut butter before blending. Tastes like a melted Reese’s in a cup.
Mint Chocolate Chip: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract and a handful of mini chocolate chips. Hello, holiday Frosty!
Espresso Vibe: Mix in 1–2 tsp of instant espresso powder. Perfect for that 3 p.m. slump.
Wendy’s Frosty Copycat Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup nonfat milk skim milk
- 2 tbsp sugar-free, fat-free chocolate pudding mix
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tbsp Splenda or 2-3 small packets
- 2 tbsp Cool-Whip Free optional, for creaminess
- 7 ice cubes about 1-1½ cups
Instructions
- Ensure your blender is clean and ready to use. Use a high-powered blender capable of crushing ice for the smoothest texture.
- Add milk, pudding mix, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, Splenda, and Cool-Whip (if using) into the blender. Top with ice cubes to achieve a frosty texture.
- Blend on high speed until the ice is crushed and the mixture is smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more ice for thickness or a splash of milk if too thick.
- Pour into cups. Optionally top with a dollop of Cool-Whip Free or dust with cocoa powder for decoration.
- Serve immediately with a straw or spoon. Perfect as a guilt-free dessert or mid-day indulgence!