Wendy’s Frosty (Copycat Recipe) – Creamy, Cool, and Totally Craveable!

There’s something truly nostalgic about a Wendy’s Frosty. Maybe it’s the way it straddles the line between a milkshake and soft-serve ice cream… or maybe it’s just that first chilly spoonful on a hot day that hits just right. Whatever the magic is, I’m here to help you recreate that iconic creamy treat at home—and trust me, this homemade Wendy’s Frosty copycat recipe nails it!

Before we dive into the silky swirl of chocolatey goodness, don’t forget to subscribe to get this Frosty recipe (and many more comfort-food favorites!) sent straight to your inbox. I share new recipes weekly, and I’d love to cook along with you!

What Is a Wendy’s Frosty?

If you’ve never had one (and oh, are you in for a treat!), a Wendy’s Frosty is a signature dessert from the fast food chain Wendy’s. It’s not quite a milkshake and not quite ice cream—it’s a thick, creamy, chocolatey dessert served with a spoon and sometimes a straw. The texture is dreamy and slightly airy, thanks to a secret combo of whipped topping and chocolate flavor that makes it unlike any other frozen treat.

Wendy’s Frosty

Author: iyma hernandes
Total Time: 4 hours
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This copycat Wendy’s Frosty recipe brings the nostalgic, creamy chocolate dessert home with just four ingredients and no ice cream machine required. Perfectly thick, lightly chocolatey, and irresistibly cool!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 gallon chocolate milk (use whole for creamier texture)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for deeper chocolate flavor)

Instructions

In a blender or large mixing bowl, combine chocolate milk, sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for 3–4 hours, stirring once every hour to maintain a semi-frozen texture.
Once thickened to your liking, scoop into bowls or cups and serve with a spoon or straw.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat ingredients and stir the mixture hourly while freezing to maintain the Frosty’s signature fluffy texture.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Freezer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 210
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 85mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: wendy’s frosty, chocolate frosty, copycat dessert, summer treats, frozen drinks

Reasons to Love This Wendy’s Frosty Copycat Recipe

✅ Only 4 ingredients!
✅ No ice cream machine needed!
✅ Ready in minutes—just blend and freeze.
✅ Perfect for kids, nostalgic adults, or anytime chocolate cravings hit.
✅ Make-ahead friendly and freezer-stable!

What Does a Wendy’s Frosty Taste Like?

In a word: classic. This Frosty has a smooth, milky chocolate flavor—not too rich, not too sweet—with a super creamy, almost fluffy texture. It’s light on the tongue and incredibly satisfying. The secret to mimicking that texture lies in the balance of cocoa and whipped topping. Every spoonful is a blast of cool comfort!

Benefits of Making Your Own Frosty at Home

💰 Budget-friendly: A few pantry staples turn into multiple servings.
🕒 Quick and easy: You’ll be sipping in under 10 minutes.
🎉 Customizable: You control the sweetness, flavor, and even the thickness.
🚫 No preservatives or artificial flavoring needed!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your own Wendy’s Frosty:

1/2 gallon chocolate milk (use whole for a creamier texture)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional: a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate note.

Tools You’ll Need

Blender or large mixing bowl with hand mixer
Large airtight container (for freezing)
Ice cream scoop or spoon
Freezer-safe cups or bowls for serving

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

Milk: Swap with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version (use dairy-free whipped topping too).
Whipped Topping: You can make your own with whipped cream, but it won’t freeze quite the same.
Add-ins: Blend in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a chocolate PB Frosty, or a few crushed Oreos for cookies-and-cream vibes!

How to Make a Wendy’s Frosty at Home (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Blend it Up

In a large blender or mixing bowl, combine the chocolate milk, sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, and vanilla extract. Blend on high speed until smooth and fully combined. The mixture should be thick but pourable.

Step 2: Freeze Until Slushy

Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for about 3-4 hours, stirring once every hour to achieve that iconic semi-frozen texture. You’re aiming for a consistency that’s thicker than a milkshake but softer than ice cream.

Step 3: Scoop and Serve

Once it’s set to your desired thickness, scoop into cups or bowls and serve immediately with a spoon—or a straw if you’re feeling adventurous!

What to Serve with a Wendy’s Frosty

French fries – Yep, it’s a thing. Salty fries dipped into a sweet Frosty? Trust me.
Chocolate chip cookies – Classic duo alert!
Fresh strawberries – The tart-sweet contrast is heavenly.
Waffle cones or wafer cookies – For a handheld dessert moment.

Tips for the Creamiest Homemade Frosty

Don’t over-freeze! If it freezes too hard, let it sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Stir while freezing: This helps keep the airy texture.
Use full-fat ingredients for that rich, creamy finish that mimics the real deal.
Double the batch – it keeps beautifully, and you’ll want more!

How to Store Homemade Frosty

Keep your homemade Frosty in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Just let it soften slightly before scooping. If you love meal prepping desserts (a.k.a. future-you planning), this one’s a freezer MVP.

General Info About the Wendy’s Frosty

Did you know? The original Wendy’s Frosty was created by founder Dave Thomas in 1969 as part of the first Wendy’s menu. It was intended to be a cross between a milkshake and soft-serve—a dessert that complemented burgers and fries without being overpowering. The original flavor was a chocolate-vanilla combo, which is why today’s chocolate Frosty has such a light cocoa taste!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different milk?

Yes! Almond, oat, and even coconut milk all work. Just choose a chocolate version for best results.

Can I make this without whipped topping?

You can substitute homemade whipped cream, but note that the texture may be less stable when frozen.

How long can I keep it in the freezer?

It’s best enjoyed within a month. After that, the texture might become icy.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients in this Frosty recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this with an ice cream maker?

Absolutely. Churn according to your machine’s instructions for an even creamier finish.

Conclusion: Why This Copycat Wendy’s Frosty Is a Must-Try

There’s a reason this Frosty has been beloved for decades—and now, you can bring it home in all its creamy, chocolatey glory. Whether you’re reliving a childhood memory or making a new treat with your own kids, this simple, four-ingredient recipe is anything but boring! It’s quick, fun, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Looking for more ways to beat the heat? You’ll also love:

Peach Yogurt Popsicles
Grilled Peach Sundaes
Peach Iced Tea with Mint and Honey

Share the Frosty Love!

If you give this copycat Wendy’s Frosty a try, leave a review below and tag your creations on Pinterest so we can see your sweet success! 🍫✨

Nutritional Info (Per 1 Cup Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 210
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 4g