why make this recipe
This dessert is quick, fun, and green for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you want a minty treat. It uses few ingredients and no oven. Kids like the sweet mint taste and the bright color. You can make it in small cups for parties or for a simple snack.
introduction
Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups taste like a creamy mint shake but are easier to make. They set in the fridge, so you can make them ahead. If you want another easy, creamy dessert idea, try this banana pudding brownies recipe for a different flavor and texture.
how to make Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups
- Pour the milk into a mixing bowl.
- Add the instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk until the mix is smooth and starts to thicken.
- Stir in the mint extract and green food coloring until the color is even.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream so the pudding stays light.
- Spoon the pudding into cups or small bowls.
- Chill the cups in the fridge for at least 1 hour so they set.
- Before serving, add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle green sprinkles or chocolate shavings on top.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup green food coloring
- 1 teaspoon mint extracts
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, green sprinkles, and chocolate shavings
Directions :
In a mixing bowl, combine the milk and vanilla pudding mix. Whisk until smooth and thickened. Add mint extract and green food coloring; mix until fully incorporated. Gently fold in whipped cream until combined. Spoon the mixture into cups and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Before serving, top with additional whipped cream and green sprinkles or chocolate shavings.
how to serve Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups
Serve them cold from the fridge. Add extra whipped cream, sprinkles, or a few chocolate shavings on top. Use small clear cups to show the green color. They work well as a single dessert or part of a dessert table.
how to store Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups
Cover the cups with plastic wrap or lids and keep them in the fridge. They stay good for up to 2 days. Do not freeze, because the texture will change.
tips to make Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups
- Use cold milk for faster thickening.
- Fold in the whipped cream gently to keep the pudding light.
- Add a drop of green food coloring at a time to reach the color you like.
- Taste and add a little more mint extract if you want a stronger mint flavor.
- Chill at least 1 hour so the cups set well.
variation (if any)
- Add crushed chocolate cookies on top for crunch.
- Mix in mini chocolate chips for texture.
- Use peppermint extract instead of mint for a sharper flavor.
- Make a lighter version with low-fat milk and low-fat whipped topping.
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk and a dairy-free whipped topping.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh mint instead of mint extract?
A: Fresh mint will change the texture and may not blend as well. Use a small amount of mint extract for a clear mint flavor.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make them and chill for 1 hour, and they keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I use whole whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
A: Yes. Use your whipped cream of choice. Fold it in gently so the pudding stays fluffy.
Q: What if the pudding is not green enough?
A: Add a tiny bit more green food coloring and mix until you get the color you want.
Q: Can I skip the whipped cream in the pudding?
A: You can, but the cups will be denser. The whipped cream makes them light and creamy.
Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy mint treat that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day. No oven required!
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup green food coloring
- 1 teaspoon mint extract
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, green sprinkles, chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Pour the milk into a mixing bowl.
- Add the instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk until the mix is smooth and starts to thicken.
- Stir in the mint extract and green food coloring until the color is even.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream so the pudding stays light.
- Spoon the pudding into cups or small bowls.
- Chill the cups in the fridge for at least 1 hour so they set.
- Before serving, add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle green sprinkles or chocolate shavings on top.
Notes
Use cold milk for faster thickening. Fold in the whipped cream gently to keep the pudding light. Chill for at least 1 hour for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
