Description
These festive pudding cups combine creamy vanilla pudding with a refreshing hint of crème de menthe, whipped to a light green fluff and served in individual portions. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cups are topped with whipped cream and maraschino cherries for an extra-special touch.
Ingredients
Pudding Base
- 1 (3 oz) box instant vanilla pudding
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup crème de menthe (green)
Whipped Topping
- 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 pudding mix and milk are well chilled for best texture.
- Adjust green food coloring drops to achieve desired shade.
- These pudding cups can be prepared up to a day in advance and kept refrigerated.
- For an adult version, you can increase the crème de menthe slightly, but be cautious as it is a strong liqueur.
- Plastic soufflé cups with lids help keep the dessert fresh and make them easy to transport for parties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American