These St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups are a fun and festive treat that’s perfect for celebrating the holiday. They have a creamy, smooth pudding base that’s blended with a twist of bright green color and a hint of mint or vanilla flavor, depending on your preference. Topped with whipped cream and maybe a sprinkle of fun green sprinkles or shamrock-shaped candies, they look as cheerful as they taste.
I love making these pudding cups because they’re easy to put together, and kids and adults both enjoy them. I usually prepare the pudding the night before, so it’s perfectly chilled and ready to enjoy when the party starts. Plus, the green color always brings a smile and adds a bit of magic to the day. I find that making the cups in clear glass jars or small cups makes them look extra cute and inviting.
My favorite way to serve these is at a small get-together with friends or family around St Patrick’s Day. It’s a sweet treat that isn’t too heavy, and the green shimmer really brightens the table. These pudding cups bring a little joy to the holiday, and I always look forward to making them each year as a simple but special dessert.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate sandwich cookies: These form the tasty base crust. If Oreos aren’t on hand, any chocolate cookie would work fine. For gluten-free, try a gluten-free chocolate cookie option.
Instant pudding mixes: Chocolate and vanilla pudding bring the creamy layers. You can use sugar-free or dairy-free pudding mixes depending on your diet.
Peppermint or vanilla extract: I love peppermint here for a fresh finish, but vanilla is a smooth alternative if you prefer no mint flavor.
Green food coloring: Gel food coloring gives the best bright green without thinning the pudding. Natural alternatives like spirulina powder can add color if you want avoid artificial dyes.
Heavy cream & powdered sugar: Whipping your own cream makes a light, fresh topping. For easier prep, whipped topping like Cool Whip also works well.
How Do You Get the Pudding Layers Smooth & Even?
Layering pudding evenly helps make your cups look great and taste balanced. Here’s how I do it:
- Press the cookie crust firmly but gently at the bottom for a solid base.
- Use a spoon or piping bag to add the chocolate pudding layer carefully so it stays neat.
- Chill the first pudding layer briefly before adding the green vanilla layer to prevent mixing.
- Again, add the green pudding layer gently, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon.
- Chill the whole cup well before topping with whipped cream to keep layers intact.
Take your time with each step for tidy layers and the prettiest final presentation. It’s worth it and makes this festive dessert even more fun to enjoy!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I use these to combine cookies, pudding, and whipped cream ingredients easily.
- Food processor or resealable bag and rolling pin – makes crushing cookies simple and quick.
- Measuring cups and spoons – ensure your ratios are just right for layers and toppings.
- Whisk or hand mixer – helps whip the cream to perfect soft or firm peaks.
- Serving cups or small jars – clear containers show off the colorful layers and festive look.
- Spatula or spoon – for layering the pudding smoothly into each cup.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap peppermint extract for almond or maple flavor to change the taste; try different extracts for variety.
- Add crushed peppermint candies or green sprinkles on top for extra crunch and festive flair.
- Use mocha or coffee-flavored pudding instead of chocolate for a richer, deeper flavor.
- Mix in chopped mint chocolates or green M&Ms into the pudding layers for added texture and fun.
St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 15 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), finely crushed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk (for chocolate pudding)
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk (for vanilla pudding)
- ½ tsp peppermint extract or vanilla extract
- Green food coloring (about 6-8 drops)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Mini green sandwich cookies or green candy pieces, for garnish
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, for topping
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour of chilling time to let the pudding layers set properly. You can also prepare it a few hours in advance to have it ready for your celebration.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cookie Crust:
Mix the crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter in a bowl until the crumbs are evenly coated. Divide this mixture into your serving cups or jars, pressing down lightly to create a solid crust layer at the bottom.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer:
In another bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk until smooth and thickened (about 2 minutes). Spoon or pipe the pudding evenly over the cookie crust in each cup. Place the cups in the fridge for 5 to 10 minutes to let this layer set slightly.
3. Prepare the Green Vanilla Pudding Layer:
In a separate bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk until thickened. Add the peppermint or vanilla extract, then slowly mix in green food coloring until you reach a bright green color you like. Spoon or pipe this green pudding carefully on top of the chocolate layer, smoothing the surface gently.
4. Chill and Add Toppings:
Refrigerate the cups for at least 1 hour so the layers firm up nicely. Just before serving, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until it forms firm peaks. Top each pudding cup with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Garnish with mini green sandwich cookies or candies and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or cocoa powder.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve these festive Green Shake Pudding Cups chilled, enjoying every creamy, colorful bite. They’re a perfect sweet treat to celebrate St Patrick’s Day with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Sandwich Cookies?
Yes, you can use frozen cookies, but be sure to let them thaw fully before crushing to get an even texture for the crust.
Can I Make These Pudding Cups Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the layers and refrigerate the cups for up to 24 hours before serving. Just add the whipped cream and garnish right before serving for best freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Peppermint Extract?
If you prefer not to use peppermint, vanilla extract works well for a milder flavor. You can also try almond or coconut extract for a different twist.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftover pudding cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers may soften slightly, so give the cups a gentle stir or freshen with whipped cream before enjoying again.
