There’s something fun and festive about layering dessert in a cup, especially when it’s filled with classic flavors like mint and chocolate. These Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups are a creative and refreshing way to celebrate the flavors of a beloved seasonal shake in a cool, creamy, no-bake dessert. Made with instant pudding, milk, and whipped topping, this recipe comes together in minutes and delivers a perfect balance of smooth texture and sweet flavor. With their vibrant green hue and light, airy finish, they’re a hit for holidays like St. Patrick’s Day, but they’re so tasty you’ll want to enjoy them year-round.

This dessert is also incredibly easy to customize. You can add green food coloring for that signature shamrock color, top it with chocolate shavings or crushed mint candies, or even layer it with crushed cookies for added crunch. It’s the perfect recipe to make with kids, prep ahead for parties, or just whip up when you’re craving a cool, creamy treat with minimal effort. Whether you’re making them in individual jars, cups, or a trifle bowl, these pudding cups offer a light, fun way to enjoy mint-chocolate goodness without the need for a blender or complicated ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and No-Bake

This dessert requires no oven time and comes together in under 15 minutes using instant pudding and milk.

2. Great for Holidays

Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any green-themed party thanks to its fun color and festive presentation.

3. Family-Friendly

A great recipe to make with kids—simple steps, colorful ingredients, and a fun layering process.

4. Customizable Flavors

Easily swap out pudding flavors or toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

5. Light and Creamy

Combining whipped topping with pudding creates a fluffy texture that feels indulgent but is light and refreshing.

Ingredients

Instant chocolate pudding mix
Milk
Instant mint pudding mix
Whipped cream or whipped topping
Green food coloring (optional)
Chocolate shavings or mint candies (for garnish)

Variations

There are plenty of ways to make this recipe your own. Swap the mint pudding for pistachio or vanilla if mint isn’t your favorite. Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version, and choose dairy-free whipped topping to match. For a more indulgent version, layer the cups with crushed chocolate cookies or brownie chunks. You can also make these into parfait-style desserts with alternating layers of pudding, whipped cream, and toppings.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

In a mixing bowl, prepare the chocolate pudding by whisking the instant mix with 2 cups of milk until smooth and thickened. Set aside.

Step 2

In another bowl, prepare the mint pudding by whisking the mix with 2 cups of milk. Add a few drops of green food coloring if desired for a bolder green shade.

Step 3

Once both puddings are set and thickened, fold half of the whipped topping into the mint pudding to create a light, mousse-like texture.

Step 4

Begin layering your cups. Spoon a layer of chocolate pudding into the bottom of each serving cup.

Step 5

Add a layer of the mint pudding mixture on top of the chocolate.

Step 6

Top each cup with the remaining whipped topping and garnish with chocolate shavings or crushed mint candies.

Step 7

Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best texture and flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use cold milk for best pudding consistency and to ensure the mix sets properly.
Chill the pudding cups before serving to allow the flavors to meld and layers to set.
Use clear cups or jars to show off the pretty layers.
Make ahead and garnish just before serving for maximum freshness.
Adjust food coloring to your preference for a lighter or more vibrant green look.

How to Serve

Serve Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups chilled, straight from the fridge. They’re perfect in small glasses, plastic dessert cups, or mason jars. For parties, try mini versions in shot glasses for a bite-sized treat. Add a sprig of mint, extra chocolate curls, or festive sprinkles for a fun presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pudding cups in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or lids, for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping may become watery once thawed.

Reheating

This recipe is served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Yes, but allow it to fully cool and thicken before layering.

2. Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

Absolutely—use plant-based milk and a dairy-free whipped topping.

3. Can I prepare this in a large dish instead of cups?

Yes, you can assemble it in a trifle bowl or baking dish and scoop into servings.

4. Is there a substitute for green food coloring?

You can skip it or use natural alternatives like matcha or spinach powder for color.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare up to 24 hours in advance and add toppings just before serving.

6. Can I add crushed cookies?

Definitely—layer in crushed Oreos or chocolate graham crackers for texture.

7. How many servings does this recipe make?

Depending on the size of your cups, this recipe yields 4 to 6 servings.

8. Can I use different pudding flavors?

Yes, pistachio, vanilla, or white chocolate work well as substitutes.

9. Will the layers stay separated?

Yes, if the pudding is thick enough and chilled, the layers will hold their shape.

10. Can I add alcohol for an adult version?

A splash of crème de menthe or Irish cream can be added to the mint layer for a boozy twist.

Conclusion

Shamrock Shake Pudding Cups are a simple yet delightful way to enjoy the flavors of mint and chocolate in a fun, festive format. With no baking required and plenty of room for creativity, this recipe is great for parties, holidays, or any day you want a cool and creamy treat. Easy to prepare, easy to love—this is one dessert you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation.