These St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups are a fun and festive treat perfect for celebrating the holiday. The bright green color makes them stand out instantly, and they’re creamy and smooth with a little bit of sweetness that everyone loves. They’re made with a simple green shake base, mixed right into rich pudding for a dessert that’s both colorful and delicious.
I love making these pudding cups because they’re so easy to whip up, and kids get really excited about the fun green color. A little tip I have is to add some whipped cream on top and maybe a few sprinkles or mini marshmallows for an extra special touch. It feels like a little party in every cup! Plus, the pudding is thick enough that it feels filling but still light and refreshing on a warm spring day.
When I bring these pudding cups to a St Patrick’s Day get-together, they’re always the first dessert to disappear. They’re great served chilled right out of the fridge, and I find they’re a perfect way to add some green to the celebration without needing complicated ingredients. It’s such a simple way to make the holiday a little more fun and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This is the base of your pudding cups and gives them that creamy texture. If you prefer, you can use sugar-free pudding mix for a lighter option or make homemade pudding from scratch.
Whole Milk & Heavy Cream: Whole milk makes the pudding rich, while heavy cream adds a light, fluffy texture when folded in. You can swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Peppermint or Mint Extract: This adds a fun green shake flavor. It’s optional, so if you want a plain vanilla pudding or don’t like mint, you can skip it or try a drop of almond extract instead.
Green Food Coloring: Just a few drops give the pudding its festive green color. If you prefer natural coloring, try matcha powder or spinach juice, but these will change the flavor slightly.
Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: Crushed Oreos add crunch and chocolate flavor. For gluten-free needs, look for gluten-free sandwich cookies or use crushed chocolate graham crackers.
How Do You Layer the Pudding Cups for the Best Texture?
Layering creates a pleasing mix of creamy pudding and crunchy cookie bits. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with a cookie crumb base for crunch at the bottom.
- Add a thick pudding layer to balance the texture and flavor.
- Add more cookie crumbs on top for another crunchy surprise.
- Finish with pudding to seal it all in smooth creaminess.
- Chilling the cups helps the layers set and flavors blend.
- Before serving, a whipped cream topping and sprinkles add a fun, fresh finish.
Take your time spooning and smoothing each layer for neat cups that look as good as they taste!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowls – I use these to whisk the pudding and whip the cream easily.
- Whisk or hand mixer – makes whipping the heavy cream quick and fluffy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts, especially with liquids and extracts.
- Serving cups or glasses – clear ones are fun to see all the layers in.
- Spoon or spatula – helpful for layering and smoothing the pudding.
- Pastry bag or spoon – for topping with whipped cream neatly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use crushed Oreos with mint flavoring for a chocolate-mint twist.
- Swap peppermint extract with vanilla or almond for different flavor profiles.
- Add chopped fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, between layers for extra freshness.
- Top with colorful sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or shamrock-shaped candies for fun decorations.
St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pudding Mixture:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint or mint extract (optional)
- Green food coloring (a few drops)
Layers and Topping:
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
- Whipped cream for topping
- Colorful rainbow sprinkles for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare plus at least 2 hours of chilling time in the refrigerator. Chilling lets the pudding set and helps the layers meld together for the best flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Green Pudding Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the milk and instant vanilla pudding mix together until it thickens, about 2 minutes. Stir in the peppermint or mint extract if using, then add a few drops of green food coloring. Mix well until the pudding is evenly green.
2. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the green pudding mixture to make it light and creamy.
3. Assemble the Pudding Cups:
Start by spooning a layer of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies into the bottom of each serving cup. Next, add a thick layer of the green pudding mixture on top. Add another layer of crushed cookies, followed by a final layer of green pudding, smoothing the top with a spoon.
4. Chill and Decorate:
Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 2 hours to let the pudding set. Before serving, top each cup with whipped cream and sprinkle colorful rainbow sprinkles on top for a festive touch.
Enjoy your delicious and festive St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups!
Can I Use Skim or Plant-Based Milk for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use skim milk or plant-based milks like almond or oat milk, but keep in mind the pudding may be less creamy. Using full-fat or heavy cream alternatives can help maintain a rich texture.
How Long Can I Store These Pudding Cups?
Store the pudding cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cookie layers will soften over time but remain tasty. Add whipped cream and sprinkles just before serving for best presentation.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Peppermint or Mint Extract?
Absolutely! The mint extract is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a classic vanilla flavor. You could also substitute with a small amount of almond or vanilla extract for a different twist.
What Are Good Alternatives to Chocolate Sandwich Cookies?
If you want to change it up, try crushed graham crackers, chocolate chip cookies, or gluten-free cookie options. Any cookie with a bit of crunch works well layered in the pudding cups.