Description
Cups: A Festive, Creamy Minty Delight is a refreshing and easy-to-make dessert featuring instant vanilla pudding enhanced with a cool crème de menthe flavor. Lightly tinted green and topped with whipped cream and maraschino cherries, these individual pudding cups are perfect for holiday gatherings or any celebratory occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pudding Base
- 1 (3 oz) box instant vanilla pudding
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Flavor and Topping
- ¼ cup crème de menthe (green)
- 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
- 1–2 drops green food coloring
- 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 smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Incorporate crème de menthe: Stir in the green crème de menthe thoroughly to infuse the pudding with a refreshing mint flavor.
- Fold in whipped topping and color: Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip and 1-2 drops of green food coloring into the mixture until evenly combined and the pudding 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.
- 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: Before serving, top each pudding cup with a swirl of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry for a festive presentation.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is cold for best pudding consistency and quicker thickening.
- Adjust the amount of crème de menthe according to your desired mint intensity.
- The green food coloring is optional but adds a festive and appealing look.
- These pudding cups can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- If you prefer non-alcoholic, substitute crème de menthe with mint extract or omit it for a milder flavor.
