These St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups are a fun and festive treat that combine creamy pudding with a light, minty green shake flavor. They’re colorful, smooth, and just a little bit sweet, making them perfect for celebrating the holiday. The green color really pops and adds a cheerful vibe to any St. Patrick’s Day gathering.
I love making these pudding cups because they’re simple to put together but still feel special. I usually like to add a little whipped cream on top and maybe some green sprinkles or mini shamrock candies to make them extra cute. It’s a great way to get everyone in the holiday spirit without spending too much time in the kitchen.
These cups also work great as a fun snack or a light dessert, especially when served chilled. I find that kids and adults both enjoy them because they’re not too rich but still tasty and satisfying. They’re one of those treats that turn a regular day into a small celebration—just the right touch for St. Patrick’s Day fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Oreo cookies: The crushed Oreos create a chocolatey, crunchy base. If you want a gluten-free option, try gluten-free chocolate cookies or crushed graham crackers for a different but tasty texture.
Pistachio pudding mix: This gives the pudding its green color and nutty flavor. You can swap for mint pudding mix if you prefer a fresh mint taste. Adding green food coloring boosts the festive look.
Milk: Use cold milk to help the pudding set properly. If you’re dairy-free, almond or oat milk often works well with instant pudding mixes.
Chocolate pudding: Adds a rich, smooth layer that pairs perfectly with the green pudding. Use homemade pudding for a fresher taste or store-bought for convenience.
Whipped cream & toppings: Whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess on top. Store-bought works great, but homemade whipped cream is easy and tastes fresher. Sprinkles and mini marshmallows or candy coins give a fun, festive finish.
How Can I Get Perfect Layers in My Pudding Cups?
Layering cleanly helps the cups look pretty and appealing. Here’s what I do:
- After preparing each layer, chill briefly so it firms up a bit before adding the next one.
- Use a spoon or piping bag to carefully add each layer to avoid mixing them together.
- Press the cookie crumb base gently but firmly so it holds together without squeezing out butter.
- Work slowly and let each layer settle before continuing to build the next.
Taking time with layering gives your pudding cups a polished look and makes each bite deliciously balanced.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowls – I use these for mixing the pudding and crushing cookies; they make prep easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help you get the right amounts for accurate layers.
- Serving cups or small jars – perfect for layered presentation and showing off the colors.
- Small spoon or piping bag – useful for layering the pudding smoothly without mixing the layers.
- Whisk or hand mixer – blends the pudding mixes well and ensures a smooth texture.
- Refrigerator – to cool and set the pudding layers before serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pistachio pudding with lime or vanilla pudding, then add green color for a different flavor and look.
- Add chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or crushed cookies on top for texture and extra sweetness.
- Use peppermint extract in the pudding for a minty twist, especially good if you love peppermint flavor.
- Decorate with themed toppings like shamrock sprinkles, mini gold coins, or marshmallow clouds to make it fancier.
St Patrick’s Day Green Shake Pudding Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups Oreo cookies, finely crushed (or chocolate cookie crumbs)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For The Green Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) pistachio instant pudding mix (or green mint flavored pudding mix)
- 2 cups cold milk
- ½ teaspoon green food coloring (optional, for a brighter green)
For The Chocolate Layer:
- 1 cup chocolate pudding (prepared from instant mix or homemade)
For The Topping:
- 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- Green and gold sprinkles for garnish
- Mini green and gold marshmallows or candy coins (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes chilling time in the refrigerator to let the pudding layers set properly. The quick prep and festive layers make it a perfect easy-to-make St. Patrick’s Day dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix the finely crushed Oreo cookies with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Spoon the mixture into the bottom of each serving cup or jar, pressing lightly to form a firm base.
2. Make the Green Pudding Layer:
In a separate bowl, whisk the pistachio pudding mix with cold milk following the package instructions. Add green food coloring if you want a brighter green color. Spoon or pipe the green pudding evenly over the cookie crust layer in each cup.
3. Add the Chocolate Layer:
Carefully spoon the chocolate pudding over the green pudding layer, spreading it evenly. Chill the cups in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the pudding layers to set.
4. Finish with Whipped Cream and Decorations:
Just before serving, top each pudding cup with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Decorate with green and gold sprinkles and add a mini marshmallow or candy coin on top for a festive, fun look.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the pudding cups chilled. These colorful and creamy treats are perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with family and friends!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Cookies for the Crust?
Absolutely! Just swap the Oreos for your favorite gluten-free chocolate cookies or graham cracker crumbs to keep it friendly for gluten-sensitive diets.
How Long Can I Store These Pudding Cups?
Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. After that, the cookie crust may get soggy, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh within a couple of days.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and refrigerate. Just add the whipped cream and toppings right before serving to keep them fresh and fluffy.
What Can I Use Instead of Pistachio Pudding Mix?
If you don’t have pistachio pudding mix, try using mint or lime pudding mix and add green food coloring for the festive look and flavor.
