These Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups are a fun, festive, and creamy treat inspired by the classic Shamrock Shake! Made with smooth vanilla pudding, mint flavoring, and a touch of green food coloring, these no-bake pudding cups are perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in minutes with simple ingredients.
- No-Bake Dessert – A hassle-free treat for any occasion.
- Kid-Friendly & Fun – Perfect for little hands to help decorate.
- Customizable – Add crushed cookies, chocolate chips, or whipped cream.
- Festive & Delicious – A creamy mint pudding in a vibrant green color!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Instant vanilla pudding mix
- Cold milk
- Peppermint extract
- Green food coloring
- Whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
Optional Toppings:
- Crushed Oreo cookies or graham crackers
- Whipped cream
- Green sprinkles
- Chocolate chips
- Maraschino cherries
Directions
Make the Pudding:
- Whisk Pudding & Milk – In a large bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened.
- Add Flavor & Color – Stir in peppermint extract and a few drops of green food coloring. Mix until evenly colored.
Assemble the Pudding Cups:
- Layer the Pudding – Spoon pudding into small cups or dessert glasses.
- Add Toppings – Garnish with whipped cream, crushed Oreos, sprinkles, or a cherry on top.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Chill Before Serving – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6 pudding cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Mint Pudding – Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla.
- Oreo Mint Cups – Layer with crushed Oreos for a cookies-and-cream effect.
- Healthier Version – Use sugar-free pudding and almond milk.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use plant-based milk and dairy-free whipped topping.
- Boozy Adult Version – Add a splash of Irish cream or crème de menthe.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as pudding may change texture.
- Serving Tip: Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the pudding cups a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Do I have to use peppermint extract?
No, but it gives the classic minty Shamrock Shake flavor.
Can I use pre-made pudding cups?
Yes! Just stir in food coloring and peppermint extract for a shortcut.
What’s the best way to get smooth pudding?
Whisk continuously while adding the milk, and let it set fully before serving.
Can I make this pudding thicker?
Use less milk for a thicker consistency.
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Yes! Cooked vanilla pudding works just as well.
How do I make layered pudding cups?
Alternate layers of pudding and crushed cookies for extra texture.
Can I add chocolate chips or white chocolate shavings?
Yes! They add great texture and flavor.
What’s the best way to serve these?
Use clear cups or glasses to showcase the green pudding and toppings.
Can I use whipped cream inside the pudding instead of on top?
Yes! Fold whipped cream into the pudding for a lighter texture.
Conclusion
These Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups are a quick, easy, and festive treat for St. Patrick’s Day! With creamy mint pudding, fun toppings, and a vibrant green color, they’re sure to be a hit at any celebration. Try them today for a simple yet delicious holiday dessert!
Print
Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 pudding cups 1x
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups are creamy, minty, and vibrantly green, making them a perfect no-bake dessert for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. They’re made with vanilla pudding, a hint of mint, and topped with whipped cream and festive decorations!
Ingredients
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- 4 drops green food coloring (or more for a vibrant color)
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1/2 cup crushed Oreo cookies or graham crackers (for the base, optional)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Green sprinkles, crushed mint candies, or maraschino cherries (for garnish)
- Mini clear cups or dessert glasses (for serving)
Instructions
-
Make the Pudding:
- In a bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until it thickens.
-
Add Flavor & Color:
- Stir in peppermint extract and green food coloring until well combined.
-
Fold in Whipped Topping:
- Gently fold in whipped topping (Cool Whip) for an extra creamy texture.
-
Assemble the Pudding Cups:
- If using, sprinkle crushed Oreos or graham crackers into the bottom of each cup.
- Spoon or pipe the green pudding mixture over the cookie layer.
-
Chill & Serve:
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
- Before serving, top with whipped cream, green sprinkles, and a maraschino cherry for a festive touch!
Notes
- For a boozy version, add 2 tablespoons of Baileys Irish Cream or crème de menthe to the pudding mix.
- Want a crunch? Mix chopped Andes mints or crushed Thin Mints into the pudding.
- Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving.