St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups are a fun and festive treat that bring a burst of bright green color to any celebration. These pudding cups are creamy and smooth, with a deliciously light texture that everyone loves. The green hue comes from a special shake or mix, making them perfect for celebrating the holiday with a playful twist.
I love making these pudding cups because they’re easy to prepare, and the kids especially enjoy the vibrant color and the creamy taste. It feels like a little holiday treat that’s both sweet and fun, and I always find myself smiling when I see how excited everyone gets over just a simple cup of pudding. A handy tip I like to use is chilling them well before serving, so they’re extra refreshing and set perfectly.
These pudding cups are great to serve after a St Patrick’s Day meal or as a snack during the day. I like to add a little whipped cream or some green sprinkles on top to make them even more festive. They’re also perfect for sharing with friends and family, adding a cheerful touch and a bit of green magic to the party. It’s a simple yet joyful way to mark the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate sandwich cookies: These add a crunchy, chocolaty base. If you can’t find Oreos, any chocolate cookie will work. For gluten-free, try gluten-free chocolate cookies crushed finely.
Instant pistachio pudding mix: This gives the green color and flavor. If you don’t like pistachio, matcha or mint-flavored pudding mixes can be great alternatives for the green layer.
Instant chocolate pudding mix: It pairs well with the green layer for a rich contrast. You can swap this with a dairy-free chocolate pudding mix to suit dietary needs.
Whipped cream and green cookies for garnish: Whipped cream adds creaminess and lightness on top. For a dairy-free option, use coconut whipped cream. Green Oreos bring fun and extra flavor but can be replaced with any green sprinkles or candy.
How Do You Get Smooth, Thick Pudding Layers Without Clumps?
Making instant pudding smoothly and thickly is key to your layered cups looking great and tasting good. Here’s how I make sure it’s perfect:
- Use cold milk straight from the fridge. Warm milk can prevent the pudding from thickening properly.
- Whisk vigorously for at least two minutes. This helps dissolve the powder and activates the thickening agents.
- After whisking, let the pudding sit in the fridge for about 5-10 minutes to fully set before layering. This prevents mixing between layers.
- Pour gently over the previous layer. Use the back of a spoon to soften the fall of the pudding and keep layers neat.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Dessert cups or small jars – I like clear ones to show off the colorful layers and make the treats look festive.
- Small mixing bowls – perfect for whisking the pudding mixes separately and keeping everything organized.
- Whisk or fork – makes it easy to mix the pudding powders smoothly and quickly without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurately measuring the milk and pudding mixes, ensuring the layers set just right.
- Spatula – helps gently spread the pudding layers without disturbing the layers underneath.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap the pistachio pudding for lime or lemon flavored pudding to add a citrus twist and a brighter flavor.
- Top with crushed green candies or sprinkles, like green M&Ms or candy pearls, for extra texture and color.
- Mix in mini chocolate chips or chopped green candies between layers for a crunchy surprise.
- Use a different green cookie, like mint or lime-flavored cookies, in place of the Oreos for a different taste and appearance.
St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Base:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies (Oreos), finely crushed
For The Pudding Layers:
- 2 cups cold milk, divided
- 1 packet (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix (or green shake-flavored pudding mix)
- 1 packet (3.4 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
For The Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Green mini sandwich cookies or green Oreos (for garnish)
- Green and gold sprinkles (optional, for garnish)
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to chill and set in the refrigerator. It’s a quick assembly that lets the pudding layers firm up nicely before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make The Cookie Crust:
Finely crush your chocolate sandwich cookies and press a layer evenly into the bottom of each dessert cup or jar. This makes a nice crunchy base for the pudding.
2. Prepare The Chocolate Pudding Layer:
In a medium bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with 1 cup of cold milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes until it thickens. Then spoon this chocolate pudding evenly over the cookie crust layer in each cup.
3. Prepare The Green (Pistachio) Pudding Layer:
In another medium bowl, whisk the instant pistachio pudding mix with the remaining 1 cup of cold milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes until thickened. Carefully layer this green pudding over the chocolate pudding in each cup.
4. Chill & Add Topping:
Refrigerate the pudding cups for at least 30 minutes to allow the layers to set. When ready to serve, top each cup with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Add a green mini sandwich cookie or green Oreo on top, and sprinkle with green and gold sprinkles for a festive touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve chilled for a delicious and colorful St Patrick’s Day dessert that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Milk or Should It Be Fresh and Cold?
It’s best to use fresh, cold milk straight from the fridge to help the pudding set properly. Avoid using frozen or warm milk, as this can affect the texture and thickness of the pudding layers.
Can I Make These Pudding Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pudding layers and assemble the cups a few hours or even a day in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Pistachio Pudding Mix?
If pistachio pudding mix isn’t available, you can substitute with lime or mint-flavored pudding mix for a similar green color and festive flavor. Alternatively, add a few drops of green food coloring to vanilla pudding.
How Should I Store Leftover Pudding Cups?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers or cover the cups well with plastic wrap. Keep them refrigerated and consume within 2–3 days for the best taste and texture.
