Frankenstein Pudding Cups are a fun and spooky treat that’s perfect for Halloween or any time you want a little monster-themed dessert. They’re made with creamy green pudding, topped with whipped cream, and decorated with candy eyes and chocolate or cookie pieces that give them a friendly Frankenstein’s monster look. It’s a simple way to bring a little Halloween magic to the table without a lot of fuss.
I love making these cups with kids because they get to help with the decorating part, which is half the fun. There’s something about creating those goofy faces that always makes everyone giggle. Plus, I usually mix in a little vanilla or mint flavor in the pudding to give it an extra twist. It’s a small detail, but it makes these pudding cups even more special and tasty.
When I serve these, I like to put them on a colorful platter with some Halloween-themed napkins nearby. They’re great for parties, school snacks, or just a fun dessert after dinner that keeps the festive spirit alive. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra because once these Frankenstein Pudding Cups start going around, they don’t last long!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Instant Pudding Mixes: Chocolate and pistachio pudding give the classic Frankenstein green and brown colors. If pistachio isn’t available, vanilla pudding with green food coloring works great. I like using gel coloring because it’s bold without changing the texture.
Milk: Cold milk helps the pudding set nicely. For a dairy-free option, try oat or almond milk, but expect a slightly different texture.
Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: These crushed cookies create the monster’s “hair” and add crunch. Oreos are perfect, but any chocolate cookie will work. Crush them finely for better “hair” effect.
Whipped Cream & Powdered Sugar: Whipping cream sweetened with powdered sugar makes a light topping. For a quicker option, use store-bought whipped topping, but fresh whipped cream tastes best.
Chocolate Chips & Decorating Gel: Chocolate chips form the eyes, and decorating gel adds fun facial details. If you don’t have decorating gel, an edible food marker can help you carefully draw the face.
How Do You Layer Pudding Cups So They Look Like Frankenstein’s Monster?
Layering is key to getting that cool Frankenstein look. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- First, spoon in the chocolate pudding carefully to avoid spilling on the glass sides—this forms the body base.
- Next, gently add the green pudding (pistachio or colored vanilla) on top. Using a spoon or piping bag helps keep the edge clean and smooth.
- Press crushed cookies around the green pudding’s edge for the “hair.” Press gently so the pieces stick but don’t sink.
- Add chocolate chip eyes by gently pressing them onto the green layer. This avoids breaking the pudding surface.
- Use decorating gel or food marker to add stitched mouth and scars. Take your time here for the best look.
- Finish with a swirl of whipped cream as hair or forehead. Pipe this neatly to give height and texture.
I find chilling the cups for at least 30 minutes helps all layers firm up and flavors mix well. This step keeps your Frankenstein faces neat and tasty!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Clear serving glasses or cups – I like using these so you can see the fun layers and faces.
- Medium bowls – to mix and set the pudding mixes and whipped cream.
- Whisk or hand mixer – makes stirring pudding smooth and whipped cream fluffy.
- Fork or spoon – for spreading and layering the pudding.
- Crushable bag or food processor – to crush cookies easily for the “hair.”
- Decorating tools (optional):’ edible gel or food marker’ – to draw on the faces and scars for extra expression.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use vanilla pudding with green food coloring for a simpler, milky green face. It’s quicker and still fun.
- Mix in crushed cookies or sprinkles into the pudding layers for extra texture and color.
- Add small candies or edible eyes instead of chocolate chips for a more playful look.
- Try using different flavors of pudding, like caramel or banana, for a unique twist on the monster’s color and flavor.
Frankenstein Pudding Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chocolate Layer:
- 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
For The Green Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix (or vanilla pudding mix with green gel food coloring)
- 2 cups cold milk
- Green gel food coloring (if using vanilla pudding mix)
For The Whipped Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Green gel food coloring (optional, for green whipped topping)
For Decoration:
- 6-8 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), finely crushed
- Chocolate chips or chocolate candy-coated chocolates (for eyes)
- Black decorating gel or edible black food marker (for face details)
- Optional: cocoa powder for extra decoration
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and mixing. Then, chill the pudding layers for at least 30 minutes before decorating and serving to allow everything to set nicely.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Chocolate Pudding:
In a medium bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with 2 cups cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Place in the fridge to set while you prepare the next layer.
2. Prepare the Green Pudding:
In another bowl, prepare the pistachio pudding with 2 cups cold milk following the package instructions. If you’re using vanilla pudding, mix it with green gel food coloring until you get a nice green shade. Chill this pudding too.
3. Whip the Cream:
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Add a few drops of green gel food coloring if you want green whipped cream and whip again until blended.
4. Layer the Pudding Cups:
Start by spooning chocolate pudding into the bottom of each clear glass or cup, filling about one-third full. Next, carefully add the green pudding layer on top, filling the cup to about two-thirds. Smooth the surface gently.
5. Add the Hair and Face:
Press crushed chocolate sandwich cookies around the top edge of the green pudding layer to create “hair.” Then, place two chocolate chips or candy pieces for eyes on the green layer’s front.
6. Draw the Face:
Use black decorating gel or an edible food marker to draw Frankenstein’s stitches and mouth on the green pudding layer. Take your time for fun and spooky details.
7. Top with Whipped Cream:
Pipe or spoon a swirl of whipped cream (plain or green) on top as the hair or forehead.
8. Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the pudding cups for at least 30 minutes so the layers set well. Serve chilled and enjoy your spooky Frankenstein Pudding Cups!
Can I Make Frankenstein Pudding Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pudding layers and whip the cream a few hours ahead. Just store each component covered in the fridge and assemble the cups right before serving for the freshest look and taste.
Can I Use Store-Bought Whipped Topping Instead of Fresh Whipped Cream?
Absolutely! Store-bought whipped topping works well and saves time. Just pipe or spoon it on top of the pudding layers as the finishing touch.
What Can I Substitute for Pistachio Pudding?
If pistachio pudding isn’t available, use vanilla pudding with a few drops of green gel food coloring to get that vibrant Frankenstein green color.
How Should I Store Leftover Pudding Cups?
Cover the pudding cups tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Decorate with fresh eyes and facial details just before serving to keep them looking their best.