Introduction
Ever wonder why certain treats become instant legends on St. Patrick’s Day? While classics like corned beef and soda bread have their place, recent search data shows a massive spike in queries for “easy festive dessert” and “kid friendly green treat” in the weeks leading up to March 17th. It seems we’re all craving something simple, fun, and vibrantly green to celebrate. That’s where the idea for these St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups was born. I remember trying to find a last minute treat for my kids, Adams and Jana, and everything felt so complicated. I wanted the joy of a minty green milkshake but with the ease of a no bake dessert. What if you could capture that iconic, creamy green shake flavor in a fun, spoonable pudding cup that takes mere minutes to assemble? This recipe is my answer. It’s a delightful fusion of a creamy pudding dessert and the nostalgic taste of a shamrock shake, designed for busy parents who still want to create a little holiday magic. It’s the perfect way to bring a smile to everyone’s face, from the little ones to the grown ups, without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a new, easy tradition waiting to happen in your home, just like it has in mine.
Why You’ll Love This St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups
This recipe is a game changer for holiday treats, and I say that as a dad who has seen his fair share of complicated dessert fails. When I first made these, my wife Emily, who loves a good minty dessert, said it was a perfect ten for flavor and simplicity. My kids just loved that they could help decorate their own cups. It’s a win all around. These pudding cups have quickly become one of our favorite St. Patrick’s Day desserts because they deliver that wow factor with minimal effort.
- Incredibly Quick and Easy: Are you short on time? This is the recipe for you. With no baking required, you can whip up these festive cups in under 20 minutes. It’s as simple as mixing, layering, and decorating. It’s the ultimate solution when you need a fantastic dessert fast, much like the popular pudding parfaits that inspire easy festive treats.
- Perfectly Kid Friendly: This is a wonderful recipe to get the children involved in the kitchen. Adams and Jana love being in charge of the sprinkles and whipped cream. The steps are simple enough for little hands to help with, making it a fun family activity that results in a delicious, rewarding treat.
- Nostalgic, Crowd Pleasing Flavor: We’ve perfectly captured the minty, creamy, vanilla flavor of the famous green shake everyone craves in March. It’s a spoonful of pure nostalgia that both kids and adults will adore. If you enjoy this, you’ll also love our Saint Patricks Day Puppy Chow for another fun treat.
- Visually Stunning with Zero Fuss: The vibrant green pudding, the crushed cookie layer, and the fluffy whipped cream create a beautiful layered dessert that looks like it came from a fancy sweet shop. Your friends and family will be so impressed, and you’ll know it only took a few minutes to assemble.
- Customizable and Fun: This recipe is a fantastic blank canvas. You can easily switch up the toppings, add different cookie layers, or even mix in some chocolate chips. It’s a versatile base that lets you get creative. For another festive green treat, give our Pistachio Pudding Cookies a try!
- No Bake Genius: Free up your oven for other dishes! Since this is a completely no bake recipe, it’s a brilliant choice when your oven is already occupied or when you simply don’t want to heat up the kitchen. It’s as convenient as other excellent no bake options like these pudding cups.
Ingredients for St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 4-6 drops green food coloring
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- Green sprinkles, for garnish
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish (optional)
Substitutions:
- Milk: You can use any type of milk you prefer, including almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy free version.
- Pudding Mix: If you can find it, instant cheesecake or white chocolate pudding also work wonderfully.
- Cookies: Instead of chocolate sandwich cookies, try using crushed shortbread, vanilla wafers, or even crushed mint cookies for an extra minty kick.
How to Make St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups
Step by Step Instructions
Creating these delightful pudding cups is one of our favorite kitchen activities. It’s so simple, the kids can practically make them on their own, which is a huge plus in my book. The magic happens in the layering, so grab your clear cups or jars and let’s get started on a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
- First, find a medium sized mixing bowl. Pour in the instant vanilla pudding mix and the cold milk. Whisk them together for about two minutes. You’ll feel it start to thicken up and become smooth and creamy.
- Now for the fun part! Add the peppermint extract and the green food coloring to the pudding mixture. I recommend starting with about 4 drops of green and mixing it in. You can always add another drop or two until you get that perfect, vibrant shamrock green color you’re looking for.
- Once you have your beautiful green pudding, set it aside for just a moment. Grab your clear serving cups or small glass jars. This is where the presentation begins. You want to see those lovely layers!
- Take your crushed chocolate sandwich cookies. Spoon about a tablespoon or two of the cookie crumbs into the bottom of each cup. Gently press them down with the back of the spoon to create a nice, even base layer. This adds a wonderful texture and chocolatey crunch.
- Next, it’s time for the star of the show. Carefully spoon the green mint pudding over the cookie layer in each cup. Fill them up about two thirds of the way, making sure to leave room for our fluffy topping. Try to keep the sides of the cup clean as you go for that professional look.
- Let the pudding cups chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes. This helps the pudding set up firmly, so the whipped topping doesn’t sink in. This small step makes a big difference.
- Once chilled, take the cups out and top each one with a generous dollop or swirl of thawed whipped topping. You can use a spoon or pipe it on with a piping bag and a star tip for a fancier finish.
- Finally, the decoration! This is where you can let your creativity, or your kids’ creativity, run wild. Sprinkle on some festive green sprinkles. For that classic shake look, top it all off with a bright red maraschino cherry.
- Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up. Enjoy the delicious taste of a St. Patrick’s Day celebration in every spoonful!
Pro Tips & Variations
After making these St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups a few times, I’ve picked up some tricks to make them even better and more versatile. Here are my top tips and some fun variations to try.
Pro Tips
- Chill Your Bowl: For the creamiest pudding, I always pop my mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for about 15 minutes before I start. This helps the milk stay extra cold and allows the pudding to set faster and thicker. It’s a small step that makes a noticeable difference in the final texture.
- Layering Like a Pro: To get those super clean, distinct layers, use a piping bag or a zip top bag with the corner snipped off to add the pudding. This gives you more control and prevents smudging along the sides of the glass.
- Don’t Overmix the Pudding: Whisk the pudding mix and milk for just two minutes, as the package directs. Overmixing can sometimes prevent it from setting up properly. You want it smooth and just beginning to thicken, then let the refrigerator do the rest of the work.
- Make Ahead Strategy: You can assemble the cookie and pudding layers a few hours ahead of time. Keep them covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the whipped topping and sprinkles right before serving to keep the topping fluffy and the sprinkles from bleeding their color. This is a lifesaver when you’re prepping for a party.
Variations
- Boozy Version for Adults: For a grown up twist, add a splash of crème de menthe or Bailey’s Irish Cream to the pudding mixture. Reduce the milk by the same amount of liqueur you add to maintain the right consistency. It transforms this kid friendly treat into a sophisticated dessert cocktail.
- Chocolate Mint Dream: Use instant chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer, deeper flavor. The combination of chocolate and mint is a classic for a reason, and it pairs beautifully with the crushed cookie base.
- Gluten Free Friendly: This recipe is easily adaptable for a gluten free diet. Simply use your favorite gluten free chocolate sandwich cookies or shortbread for the crust layer. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten free, but always double check your packaging. Another great gluten free option is our Vanilla Bean Shamrock Cookies.
- Golden Oreo Surprise: Not a fan of chocolate? Use crushed Golden Oreos or other vanilla sandwich cookies for the base. This creates a lighter, sweeter vanilla forward flavor profile that is just as delicious.
Serving Suggestions
These St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups are a star on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can turn a simple dessert into a full blown celebration. At our house, we love to make an event out of it. We’ll serve these pudding cups as the grand finale to a festive St. Patrick’s Day meal. They are light enough that they don’t feel heavy after a hearty dinner but special enough to feel like a true indulgence. I often pair them with a simple cup of coffee or, for the kids, a small glass of milk. The bitterness of the coffee beautifully cuts through the sweetness of the pudding. For a more elaborate dessert spread, consider serving them alongside other festive treats. They look absolutely fantastic on a dessert table next to a platter of cookies. Have you tried our Shamrock Swirl Pie? The two together create an ultimate green themed dessert duo that will have everyone talking. Another fun idea is to create a “decorate your own” pudding cup bar. I’ll set out bowls of different sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, extra cookie crumbs, and even some chocolate syrup. It turns dessert into an interactive activity, which is always a hit with the younger crowd. You could also serve them with a side of simple shortbread cookies for dipping. The buttery, crisp cookie is the perfect vehicle for scooping up any leftover pudding at the bottom of the cup. It’s all about creating moments and memories, and these serving ideas help make this delicious treat part of a bigger, happier experience.
Storage & Reheating for St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to manage, and that includes storage. If you happen to have any leftovers, which is rare in my house, storing them is simple. To store them in the fridge, it’s best to remove the maraschino cherry and any sprinkles that might bleed. Cover each individual cup tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it gently against the surface of the whipped topping to prevent a skin from forming. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cookie layer will soften over time, but it will still taste incredible, almost like a cakey layer. I do not recommend freezing these pudding cups. The texture of the pudding and the whipped topping can become watery and separate upon thawing, which isn’t very pleasant. Since this is a no bake recipe that relies on fresh, creamy textures, it is definitely best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days from the refrigerator. There is no reheating required for this recipe, as it is served cold. Just pull it from the fridge, and it’s ready to enjoy! If you’ve stored it without toppings, simply add a fresh dollop of whipped cream and a new sprinkle of decorations before serving to bring it back to life.
FAQ about St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups
Can I use cook and serve pudding instead of instant?
I recommend sticking with instant pudding for this recipe. It’s designed for a quick, no bake dessert and sets up perfectly with cold milk. Cook and serve pudding requires a heating step and has a different final texture that may not work as well for these layered cups.
How do I get the perfect shade of green?
The key is to add the food coloring a little at a time. I use a gel based food coloring for a more vibrant hue without thinning the pudding. Start with 3 to 4 drops, mix completely, and then assess the color. Add one drop at a time until you reach that festive shamrock green you desire.
Can I make one large pudding dessert instead of individual cups?
Absolutely! You can easily turn this into a layered dessert in a glass trifle bowl. Simply double the ingredients and layer the cookie crumbs, green pudding, and whipped topping. It makes a stunning centerpiece for a party dessert table. It’s a similar concept to our Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge, which also looks great as a large batch.
My pudding seems a little thin. What did I do wrong?
This can happen if the milk wasn’t cold enough or if you didn’t use the correct milk to pudding ratio. Ensure you use ice cold milk and measure precisely. Also, be sure to whisk for the full two minutes to help it thicken properly before letting it set in the fridge.
What are some other fun topping ideas?
Get creative! Mini chocolate chips, shaved chocolate, chopped mint candies, or even a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce would be delicious. For a truly festive touch, look for gold or rainbow sprinkles to add alongside the green ones.
Final Thoughts on St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups
There you have it, one of the easiest and most enjoyable recipes to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. These pudding cups are all about bringing joy and a touch of magic to your table without any of the stress. It’s a recipe that’s become a small but cherished tradition in our family, and I hope it becomes one in yours too. If you make these festive treats, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Drop a comment below and let me know how they turned out or if you added your own creative twist. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your favorite dessert board on Pinterest so you can find it easily every year. And if you’re looking for more simple, family friendly recipes that make everyday life a little more delicious, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter. Happy cooking!
St Patrick's Day Green Shake Pudding Cups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pour in the instant vanilla pudding mix and the cold milk. Whisk them together for about two minutes until thickened and smooth. Add peppermint extract and green food coloring (start with 4 drops, adjust for desired shade). Set aside.
- Spoon 1-2 tablespoons crushed chocolate sandwich cookies into the bottom of each cup and press down to create a base.
- Spoon the green mint pudding over the cookie layer in each cup, filling about two-thirds full. Keep sides clean.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to set the pudding.
- Top each cup with a generous dollop of thawed whipped topping, using a spoon or piping bag.
- Decorate with green sprinkles and optional maraschino cherries.
- Serve immediately.
