Description
This festive and creamy mint-flavored pudding cups recipe blends instant vanilla pudding with crème de menthe and Cool Whip for a light, fluffy dessert perfect for parties and special occasions. Chilled to set and garnished with whipped cream and maraschino cherries, these individual servings offer a refreshing and visually appealing treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding Base
- 1 (3 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Flavor and Texture Enhancers
- ¼ cup crème de menthe (green)
- 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
- 1–2 drops green food coloring
Garnish
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- 12 (2 oz) plastic soufflé cups with lids
Instructions
- Make the pudding base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly, about 2 minutes.
- Incorporate crème de menthe: Stir in the green crème de menthe until fully combined, infusing the pudding mixture with a refreshing mint flavor.
- Fold in whipped topping and color: Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip along with 1-2 drops of green food coloring, mixing until evenly combined and the mixture is light green and fluffy.
- Portion into cups: Spoon or pipe the pudding mixture into 2 oz plastic soufflé cups, filling each about three-quarters full for perfect servings.
- Chill to set: Cover each cup with its lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the pudding to firm up and flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, top each cup with a swirl of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry to add a festive and appealing presentation.
Notes
- Ensure the Cool Whip is fully thawed for smooth folding into the pudding mixture.
- If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, you can adjust the amount of crème de menthe accordingly.
- These pudding cups can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated until serving.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace crème de menthe with a few drops of mint extract and add green food coloring as desired.
- Use plastic soufflé cups with lids for easy storage and individual servings ideal for parties or gatherings.
